Embassy appointments for Iranians and Afghans: where, how and how early to apply

For many applicants, getting an embassy appointment is harder than getting admitted. Queues are long, some embassies do not operate in your country and every country has its own system. This guide helps you know where to apply and how to plan so you do not miss the semester.

Which embassy handles your application?

The general rule is that you apply at the destination country's embassy or consulate in your country of nationality or legal residence. For example, according to the EU Immigration Portal, a Hungarian study permit can be applied for at a Hungarian mission in your country of nationality or habitual residence, and in exceptional cases, with proof of the reasons, in a country where you stay legally.

• Iranians living in Iran: usually the destination country's embassy or consulate in Tehran, or its visa application centre.
• Afghans: many European embassies do not provide visa services in Kabul. You usually apply in the country where you legally reside (e.g. Iran or Pakistan) or at the mission the embassy has designated for Afghan nationals. Always check the official embassy page first.
• Living in a third country: if you hold legal residence elsewhere, you usually apply from there.

Official portals by country

Avoid websites and individuals who "sell" embassy appointments; use only official systems or official centres listed on the embassy website.

How early should you apply?

Waiting times vary widely by country, season and location, from a few weeks to several months. Therefore:

1. Book as soon as you have your admission letter (or earlier, if the embassy allows).
2. Complete your documents before the appointment, as the time between booking and interview is often too short for translations and legalisation.
3. Include the processing time after the interview in your plan.
4. If the appointment is close to the semester start, ask the university about a later start.

On the appointment day

• Arrange originals and copies in the order of the embassy's list.
• Have the visa fee ready in the accepted payment method; for a German national visa it is usually €75.
• Answer interview questions honestly and consistently with your documents.
• Keep your receipt and tracking code.

Common mistakes

1. Waiting until everything is ready before booking.
2. Using appointment-selling middlemen.
3. Applying at an embassy that is not responsible for your case.
4. Not having copies of your documents.

Frequently asked questions