COVID-19: Stuck in the EU on expiring business visas - what affected employees can do

In the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic, strict travel bans have been put in place in countries right across the world. What does this mean for employees stranded in them?

If you have non-EU nationals working in EU countries on short-term business visas, the duration of the current travel bans could mean they’re unable to return home before their visas expire.

Under normal circumstances, staying beyond the visa period would be illegal. So, with no way to get home, what can they do?

Thankfully, in emergency situations like this where a prolonged stay is unavoidable, it’s possible to extend the business visa.

Ordinarily, the employee collects a visa extension sticker from the immigration authority that has jurisdiction over the area where they’re staying. Right now, though, most of these authorities are either closed or their teams are working remotely.

Dwyer Legal can help reach them – and secure vital visa extensions.

We’ll contact your employees to understand their specific circumstances and talk them through any steps they need to take.

We’ll then communicate directly with the relevant authorities in Germany on their behalf, including remote teams handling applications for emergency extensions.

To get started we’ll need:

• The employee’s contact details
• Copies of their passport and entry visa
• Copies of any letters used to support thier visa application

Plus, details of:

• Where they work in their home country
• When they arrived in Germany (or another EU country)
• Where they’re living right now (including proof from their hotel or host)

We’ll also need proof:

• That leaving the country is not possible
• Of any health insurance cover (if applicable)

Dwyer Legal is ready to provide a lifeline to your business and your people at this difficult time.