ISLAMABAD: In a significant development for job-seeking Pakistanis, the German Embassy in Islamabad has launched a new Consular Services Portal designed to streamline the work visa application process.
The new portal, accessible via digital.diplo.de/visa, enables applicants to complete an online questionnaire and upload documents for an initial review before attending any physical appointment.
This upgrade will increase processing speed, reduce waiting times, and eliminate the need for lengthy waiting lists previously required by the embassy.
The online system ensures all documents are in order before in-person appointments, making the entire visa process faster and more efficient.
Applicants will still need to visit the embassy in person for identity verification, biometric data collection, and visa fee payment.
The portal supports various types of employment-related visa categories including Skilled Employment, EU Blue Card, Opportunity Card (Chancenkarte), Self-employment, and Academic Recognition.
Embassy Urges Early Application through the Portal
The German Embassy has encouraged Pakistani applicants who haven’t yet received an appointment to begin their applications through the new portal immediately.
Officials confirmed that more visa types will be moved to the digital system soon, as part of ongoing efforts to modernize and improve service delivery.
The embassy highlighted that fully completed applications help significantly reduce delays and speed up the decision-making process.
New Rules for Visa Booking at German Consulate Karachi
Meanwhile, the German Consulate General in Karachi has also made major procedural changes to handle the high demand for visas.
Applicants must now register on a waiting list instead of directly booking appointments for Schengen and long-term visas (excluding the Opportunity Card).
Appointments will be allocated based on registration date and embassy capacity, following a first-come, first-served model.
However, those applying for the Opportunity Card can still schedule appointments directly through the consulate’s standard booking system.
The consulate stated that the new policy will improve appointment management and ensure fairer distribution of available slots amid overwhelming demand.
WorkVisa, Germany, Immigration
