Schengen Visa Usage and Purpose of Trip: how it works in Germany — first-hand

German Schengen visas (especially for tourism) are difficult to obtain for Russian citizens and typically require a formal invitation with financial commitment (Verpflichtungserklärung). Essential documents include a European health insurance policy and potentially a verifiable bank account in an EU country. A strategy to overcome entry difficulties is to first enter a more lenient Schengen country (e.g., Spain, France, Italy), spend more time there, and then travel to Germany, ensuring all travel documents support the initial visa's purpose. Germany does not recognize 5-year passports for entry.

This involves spending more days in Greece than in Germany. Essential requirements include: valid European health insurance, confirmed accommodation booking in Germany, and a return ticket. Be aware that altering your original itinerary (e.g., canceling a Greek hotel booking after visa approval) might lead to visa cancellation by the issuing country. It's advisable to confirm entry requirements and potential consequences with the relevant authorities or in country-specific forums.

Lack of proof of the main destination (e.g., hotel reservations, itinerary) when entering via a different country often leads to visa cancellation and a ban in the Schengen Information System (SIS). Having previous visas for the same country does not exempt travelers from carrying current supporting documents (tickets, accommodation). Once a SIS ban is issued, legal appeal is difficult and expensive, with success depending entirely on specific documentary evidence of the original travel intent.

Attempting to enter another Schengen country (e.g., Germany) directly from a third country (e.g., Russia) without first entering the issuing country (Bulgaria) can lead to problems. Airlines at the point of departure or during a layover may deny boarding due to potential violation of the 'first entry rule,' or immigration authorities at the destination may deny entry. It is strongly advised to enter the Schengen area through the country that issued the visa.

Concerns about specific German states (Bundesländer) interpreting entry rules differently are unfounded, as border control is a federal responsibility (Bundespolizei). Sanctions do not generally prohibit entry with a valid Schengen visa. A valid European medical insurance is required.

If the visa was issued after this date, entry using the old passport is not allowed. Furthermore, if the Schengen visa is not issued by Germany (e.g., from a Southern European country) and one attempts to enter Germany, there is a risk of being accused of 'visa shopping,' which can lead to further complications. It's advisable to use the visa for the country that issued it to avoid issues.

Required documents: flight tickets to France, hotel bookings, local event tickets (concerts, museums), and transport bookings between French cities. Direct flights are recommended only if the traveler is prone to anxiety; otherwise, transit with proof of onward travel is legally sound.