A National Visa (Type D) allows stays longer than 90 days in a specific EU country for work, study, or family reunification. Unlike the Schengen tourist visa, it is issued by and for a specific country.
- Binding job offer or university acceptance
- Recognized qualifications
- Health insurance covering the full stay
- Passport valid 6+ months beyond intended stay
Understand how National Visa D differs from Schengen C
Schengen C (tourist visa): max 90 days in 180 days, valid for all 27 Schengen countries. National Visa D (long-stay): 91 days to 1 year for a specific country, converts to a residence permit after arrival. Apply at the specific country’s embassy — NOT the Schengen application centre.
Most common D visa pathways
Germany: job seekers visa (6 months to find a job) or employment/Blue Card visa. France: long-stay visa VLS-TS (work, study, family). Netherlands: MVV (Provisional Residence Permit) entry visa for work or study. Netherlands applications go through the IND (Dutch Immigration) via your employer.
Apply at the target country’s embassy in your home country
Each country’s embassy has its own application process, forms, and document requirements. Book an appointment directly on the embassy’s official website. Processing times: 4–12 weeks depending on country and visa type.
Arrive and convert to residence permit within 90 days
On arrival with a National D visa, you must register (Anmeldung in Germany, OFII in France) and apply for your local residence permit within 90 days at the relevant local authority. Your D visa is the entry document — the residence permit is the long-term authorization.
Key difference: can you work across the EU on a D visa?
A National D visa is valid only for the issuing country. If you have a German D visa, you can visit other Schengen countries for up to 90 days as a tourist but may not work there. The EU Blue Card has different intra-EU mobility rights.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes — most countries recognize a valid National D visa for short Schengen transit. However, some countries require an additional Schengen visa. Check before travel at the relevant embassy.
Not directly on the German D visa. You would need to apply for a French long-stay visa or, if you have a German residence permit (not just a D visa), some EU provisions for intra-EU mobility may apply after 12–18 months.