Overview
The German Embassy in Windhoek is outsourcing the handling of Schengen visa applications to a private service provider, TLS Contact, starting in mid-January. This move aims to reduce waiting times, offer more predictable processing, and provide applicants with a clearer and more convenient path to obtain a German or Schengen visa from Namibia.
What changes for applicants
Under the new arrangement, applicants will submit their visa documentation through TLS Contact’s appointment system and service centers rather than directly at the embassy. The private provider will be responsible for document verification, biometric data collection, and the initial intake, with the German authorities retaining final adjudication of visa decisions. This separation is designed to optimize workflow, improve service delivery, and reduce the burden on embassy staff while maintaining strict security and compliance standards.
How the process works
Applicants will typically follow these steps: book an appointment with TLS Contact, submit the required documents, and provide biometric data at a TLS facility. After the initial screening, cases are forwarded to the German authorities for decision. Applicants will be notified of decisions and, if approved, can collect their passport with the visa stamp either at TLS Contact centers or via a specified collection point. Detailed instruction on document requirements, appointment times, and submission guidelines will be published on the TLS Contact site and the embassy’s official pages.
Key benefits
- Reduced waiting times due to streamlined intake and standardized processing stages.
- Greater transparency with clear appointment slots and status updates.
- Convenient access through TLS Contact centers with local staff, reducing travel complexity for many applicants.
- Preserved security and compliance through a controlled, auditable workflow.
Documents and eligibility
As with any Schengen visa application, applicants will need to present a complete set of documents. Typical requirements include a valid passport, travel itinerary, proof of accommodation, travel medical insurance, proof of financial means, and the purpose of travel. It remains essential to consult the embassy’s official checklist and the TLS Contact site for the most up-to-date requirements, as documents may vary depending on visa type (short-stay, long-stay, or potentially other Schengen categories).
What applicants should prepare
To ensure a smooth experience, applicants should prepare by organizing documents in the order listed on official checklists, ensuring passports have sufficient validity, and double-checking that all forms are accurately filled. Arriving on time for appointments and complying with biometric data collection protocols will help minimize delays. Some applicants may benefit from pre-consultation resources available through TLS Contact or the embassy’s information pages.
Timeline and expectations
While the outsourcing arrangement aims to accelerate processing, all visa decisions still depend on the German authorities. Applicants should plan for potential processing times and consider applying well in advance of travel dates. The embassy will publish any changes to processing times and service levels as they become available, so staying informed through official channels is advised.
Future considerations
The outsourcing agreement marks a broader trend in consular services, balancing efficiency with rigorous security. If successful, it may encourage further enhancements in appointment scheduling, document verification, and customer support. The embassy’s priority remains ensuring that Namibian residents have reliable access to Schengen visas for tourism, family visits, studies, or business, while upholding the highest visa standards.
Where to find official information
Applicants should consult the German Embassy Windhoek’s website and the TLS Contact Namibia site for the latest guidelines, contact details, and updates related to the Schengen visa process. It is important to rely on official sources to avoid misinformation or processing delays.
