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Visa warning file; request for self-disclosure

If you want to know what information is stored about you in the Visa Warning File, you can request information.

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Online services

  • Antrag auf Erteilung einer VWD-Auskunft zu einer Person

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Procedure details

The Visa Warning File (VWD) is intended to prevent the misuse of visas when entering Germany. It primarily supports the authorities responsible for issuing visas. This includes the German missions abroad.

If you would like to know whether and what information the Visa Warning File stores about you, the Federal Office of Administration (BVA) will provide you with information. To do this, you must submit an application.

The Visa Warning File stores information about persons (and organizations) if you have been

  • have been convicted of a specific criminal offense by a final court decision.
    • Relevant criminal offenses include human trafficking, forced prostitution, narcotics offenses and moonlighting.
  • as an applicant for a visa, have presented, procured or produced forged or falsified documents, or have obtained authentic documents by making false statements.
  • acted as an inviting person, obligating person or reference person in the visa procedure and thereby
    • have made false statements, or
    • have not fulfilled your obligations when making a claim, or
  • have voluntarily allowed your data to be stored if, for example, there is a suspicion that statements have been made under your name in visa procedures without permission.

The data that the Visa Warning File stores on individuals include:

  • Personal data:
    • Family name, first name
    • different name spellings
    • other names and previous names
    • gender
    • date of birth
    • Place of birth
    • Nationality
  • the reason for storage
  • the visa warning file number of the Federal Office of Administration

The application data will be stored for up to 10 years, depending on the decision (positive, negative).

There are no requirements to apply.

  • Required document/s

    For online application:

    Proof of identity:

    • Online ID function
      • of the identity card
      • the electronic residence permit
      • the electronic residence card
      • the electronic permanent residence card or
      • the eID card

    For personal applications:

    Proof of identity by means of:

    • identity card
    • passport
    • temporary identity card
    • temporary passport
    • passport
    • Passport replacement document

    If applying by post:

    Proof of identity:

    • in Germany:
      • by official certification of the signature on the application
      • As a rule, the local town hall or citizens' office can certify the signature. Please enquire about local responsibilities and fees.
    • abroad:
      • by notarization of the signature on the application by the diplomatic mission abroad or
      • by certification of the signature on the application by an authority in the country of origin that is authorized to certify it, or
      • by a separate letter from a notary's office certifying the signature with a German translation by a sworn translator.
    • in the case of information to a representative (authorized representative):
      • Power of attorney with notarization of the signature
      • Certification is not required if the authorized representative is a lawyer admitted to practice before a German court.

    Please refer to the application form to find out which other documents are required in your case.

You can apply online, in person, or by mail.
Online application:

  • Log in to the federal portal using your online ID card function.
  • Complete the online application and submit the data.
  • You will then receive the requested information in writing by mail.

In-person application:

  • Download and complete the application form from the Federal Administration Office (BVA) website.
  • Make an appointment at your local BVA location.
    • Use the telephone hotline or the e-mail address of the Visa Warning File (BVA, Unit S I 4).
    • An overview of the locations can be found on the BVA website.
  • You will then receive the requested information in writing by mail.

Application by mail:

  • Download the application form from the BVA website.
  • Send the completed application form along with the required documents to the BVA address listed on the application form.
  • You will then receive the requested information in writing by mail.

If your personal data and proof of identity or organization are available, you can also submit the application informally:

  • Compose an informal letter and send it to the BVA. An overview of the locations can be found on the BVA website.

There are no costs for you due to the application.

You do not have to meet any deadlines.

If there is nothing to prevent you from providing the information: As a rule, you will receive a reply within 4 weeks of receipt of the mail. (4 weeks)

There are no clues or specifics.

- Objection

- objection

- Administrative court action

- Detailed information on how to file an appeal can be found in the notice of your application.

Status: 11.03.2023
Editorial responsibility Bundesministerium des Innern und für Heimat
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