What is a declaration of commitment in Germany?

Planning to invite someone to Germany for a longer visit, a language course or to support their visa application? In many cases, a simple invitation isn’t enough. Instead, German authorities may ask you to provide a Declaration of Commitment, or Verpflichtungserklärung: a formal promise that you’ll take financial responsibility for the visitor during their stay.

It’s an important step in the visa process, and it can make or break someone’s application. So, whether you’re helping a friend, partner or family member, understanding how the Verpflichtungserklärung works is key.

This guide explains:

• What a declaration of commitment is and why it’s sometimes required
• Who is allowed to act as a financial sponsor and what income is needed
• Where and how to apply for the document in Germany
• What paperwork you’ll need to submit at the appointment
• Common mistakes to avoid so the application goes smoothly.

With the right preparation and support, sponsoring someone’s stay in Germany can be simple, generous and legally secure.

What is a declaration of commitment?

A declaration of commitment is an official, legally binding document issued in Germany that confirms a visa applicant has a financial sponsor. The sponsor, who must be a resident of Germany, formally agrees to cover all costs associated with the applicant’s stay. This includes accommodation, living expenses, medical care, and, if necessary, the cost of returning home.

It is not the same as a letter of invitation. A letter of invitation is an informal document written by someone in Germany (often a friend or family member) that explains the purpose and duration of a visit. While it may support a visa application, it carries no legal or financial obligations. A declaration of commitment is issued by a local immigration office and legally binds the sponsor to take full financial responsibility.

Submitting a declaration of commitment to the German embassy or consulate significantly improves a visa applicant’s chances of approval, especially when they cannot demonstrate financial self-sufficiency.

Who needs a declaration of commitment?

A declaration of commitment is typically required for visa applicants who cannot independently prove sufficient financial means. It is commonly requested for the following visa types:

• Tourist visa (Schengen C): When the applicant lacks adequate personal funds.
• Visitor visa (Schengen C): For family or friends visiting for longer stays without financial independence.
• Language course visa (national D): If the student cannot support themselves during the course.
• Student applicant visa (Studienbewerber, national D): For individuals applying to study in Germany but not yet enrolled and without proof of funds.
• Any visa requiring proof of financial means, where alternatives like bank statements, blocked accounts or scholarships are insufficient.

Who can act as a sponsor?

Not just anyone can submit a declaration of commitment. The sponsor must be a legal resident of Germany (German citizen or foreign national with a valid residence permit), and more importantly, they need to prove that they earn enough to cover the visa applicant’s expenses.

Here’s what’s required from the sponsor:

• Proof of stable income: Generally, the local foreigners’ office (Ausländerbehörde) will ask to see recent payslips, employment contracts or income tax statements. If you’re self-employed, additional documentation like tax returns or bank statements may also be needed.
• Sufficient income: The minimum income depends on how many people you’re supporting and whether you're supporting yourself or a family as well. As a rule of thumb, a net monthly income of around €2,500-€3,000 is required to sponsor one visitor.
• No outstanding debts with authorities: If you owe money to public services or haven’t paid previous visa-related costs, you may not be allowed to act as a sponsor.

The local authority will assess your financial situation and decide whether you qualify before issuing the Verpflichtungserklärung.

Where and how to apply

The declaration of commitment must be issued at the local foreigners’ authority (Ausländerbehörde) in the area where the sponsor resides. You’ll need to book an appointment, and wait times can last several weeks in larger cities, so please plan ahead.

At your appointment, you’ll usually need to bring:

• A valid ID or residence permit
• Proof of income
• Your rental agreement or proof of accommodation
• Details about the person you are inviting (their name, passport number and address)
• Information about the length and purpose of their stay

Once approved, you’ll receive the signed and stamped Verpflichtungserklärung. This document should then be sent to the invitee, who will include it with their visa application at their local German consulate or embassy.

How long is a declaration of commitment valid for?

A declaration of commitment isn’t open-ended. It has a specific period of validity, which plays an important role in the visa application process.

Typically, a Verpflichtungserklärung is valid for six months from the date it’s issued. This means that the visa application must be submitted within this timeframe. However, the financial responsibility you assume as a sponsor may extend beyond that, depending on the type and length of visa the visitor receives. For example, if the visa applicant is granted a long-term visa for a language course or family visit, you may remain legally responsible for them for up to five years under German law, even if the document itself expires earlier.

It’s really important to keep this in mind before signing a declaration. You should only agree to sponsor someone if you’re confident in your long-term financial stability and ability to cover any of their potential costs.

Even if your financial situation changes after issuing a declaration of commitment, German authorities may still hold you responsible for your obligations. That’s why it’s essential to ensure the visa applicant has proper health insurance before they arrive. Feather can help by offering simple, affordable expat health insurance that meets all visa requirements and provides peace of mind for both you and your visitor.

Common mistakes to avoid

While the process might seem simple, there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using outdated documents: The Verpflichtungserklärung is only valid for six months from the date of issue, so make sure the visa application is submitted in time.
• Not meeting income requirements: Even if you’re willing to support someone, the authorities will deny your application if your income is too low. It’s best to double-check the financial thresholds with your foreigners’ office (Ausländerbehörde) in advance.
• Incorrect or incomplete paperwork: One of the most frequent reasons for delays is missing or incorrect documentation during the appointment at the Ausländerbehörde. This includes things like outdated payslips, missing proof of residency or incorrectly filled-out forms. Always double-check all requirements on your local authority’s website, and bring originals plus copies of everything. Being over-prepared is always better than being turned away.

Sponsor responsibilities

A declaration of commitment is a powerful tool that helps many people secure their German visas but it comes with responsibility. As a sponsor, you’re making a legal promise to cover the visa applicant’s expenses, so it’s important to understand the process fully and meet all requirements.

With the right preparation, a strong financial foundation and the right insurance, issuing a Verpflichtungserklärung can be a straightforward and generous way to bring your loved ones or future students closer to their goals in Germany.