Outstanding! Although I faced difficulties booking my appointment online for several weeks, it was a breeze once I spoke to them over the phone and they explained the necessary steps. Finally, after successfully renewing my passport, checking in, and being served promptly, I had a wonderful experience. Everyone was incredibly friendly, and the time it took to enter and exit was incredibly quick. They also informed me that I can now obtain dual citizenship without the approval of the German government. Vielen lieben Dank, Martina! read more

After trying to get a Schengen visa at the Italian consulate for almost TWO MONTHS, going there once, getting the WORST possible customer service from absolute jerks working at the Italian consulate, and then trying to unsuccessfully schedule a follow-up appointment on their completely useless website, we finally gave up, and decided that if Italy doesn't want tourists, then we don't want to go to Italy. Instead decided to go to Germany. The application process at their BLS Services visa center was flawless! We scheduled an appointment online for the next morning. Brought all documents, some were missing, but the lady looked thru every single item, corrected and reprinted the application, redone the photo, and helped to prepare the package as needed. The same day, the package was at the consulate. LESS than a week later, we got an email that the passport is ready for pick up. We drove to LA, picked up the passport without waiting, and now packing our bags to go to Germany! What a difference! Don't waste your time on rude, obnoxious, classless clowns at the Italian Consulate, not worth the stress. Go to where people mean business and actually want you to visit their country! read more

If you're applying at the BLS Germany & Spain Visa Application Center - Los Angeles, ask for Edgar. From the moment we arrived, he treated my parents with respect, walked us through each step, and caught small errors before they became problems. He organized our paperwork, clarified what the officers needed, and explained timelines and next steps without rushing us. The appointment ran on time, biometrics were easy, and the whole visit felt calm and efficient. Edgar turned a stressful task into a straightforward one and genuinely made our day. Professional, patient, and on top of the details--couldn't ask for better support. read more

I went to this consulate twice, once for my own passport and once for my daughter's passport. Both times the young man who helped me at the window was extremely fast, professional and friendly. The second appointment, I was in and out in less than 25 min. The office is bright, clean and equipped with a photo booth that accepts credit cards. The whole visit was a very positive experience and the paperwork process a breeze. Thank you! read more

Amazing experience. Martina was such an amazing help. I came in with all documents needed for the IT Visa, and even with a ZAV Pre-Approval and she explained that getting my passport back before my flight on the 12th (11 days) was do-able. We had a great talk, and some laughs, and she even thanked me for being so prepared! She made it very easy! This doesn't really matter, but they didn't have me on the list of appointments for that day. When they told me this, I showed them that I did by giving them the email you are suppose to print out, and they said I could meet with Martina. Like I said, amazing experience. They were all so friendly. Really looking forward to moving to Germany... EDIT: My VISA was approved and processed in 2 days, and I received it the following wednesday (5 days). Insane. By far the best and fastest bureaucratic process i've ever experienced and I have worked for the US Government for the majority of my adult life. Very impressive. Everyone just make sure you follow the guidelines of what paperwork you need. I spent 3 days putting it all together, and even overprepared. It will make the process incredibly fast! read more

I would have given 5 stars for the friendly service by the embassy staff themselves! If it wouldn't have been for this arrogant and rude kid of a security guard. I have been at this consulate before and always had great encounters with the staff and also security staff. Always friendly and polite and respectful. Today, (I haven't been there for a few years). I tried to enter the waiting room, some young guy in uniform opened the door, after he saw me looking through the window next to it. Because I didn't know why I couldn't get in. Last time it wasn't like this and there was no sign how to go and proceed. He said in a rude manner to wait in front of the door. When I tried to do that he snapped at me and pointed for me to go to the side of the door. Like I was some sort of 5-year-old. I felt like being at LAX going through security. Seriously? When the door opened. His unfriendly demeaner and arrogant behaviour really started to piss me off. He mumbled something what I clearly wasn't able to translate in a proper understandable English. That was when I had enough of this kid and told him to repeat it, please because I do not understand him. And I think he noticed my tone wasn't as friendly as when I came in and said hello in a polite way and never got a response. Of course. He was one of those typical people of, when you put into a uniform, and they think they can treat people like nothing. He asked me to put my cell phone into a locker and my car keys or any other metal items on the chair and go through a metal detector. Which I did. You know, I am a German citizen. I go to MY Embassy and not to some prison camp or Army camp to be treated or talked to this way by some kid who could be my grandchild. I don't know what in the heck this clown is thinking to treat people like this. This intimidating and disrespectful behaviour. A friendly hello or smile. Or at least some respectful mannerism should be part of a job dealing with people. After waiting for a while in the waiting room I ended up with a very nice lady who took care of my matters. Towards the end I shortly mentioned that I didn't appreciate the security guard's behaviour. She responded that he does a good job. In my opinion. He most likely is the friendliest guy towards them or in front of them of course. But I am not sure if they ever watched him how he treats us German citizen when coming to our embassy. I personally do not call that doing a good job. read more

Had to leave a review just because I had an absurdly easy time and the woman helping me out was so nice. I was balking at having to do this appointment but they made it so stress free! I forgot to bring my US passport and they allowed me to send in a PDF from home - amazing. read more

First time had an amazing experience with our visa application process, I had many problems related to this place due their workers not being clear and helpful. This time we had a chance to meet EDGAR GYURJYAN, (who works at BLS International, German Visa application center in USA) he's such an educated and understanding professional. He literally helped with every single detail, provided with some helpful information, answered to all our questions, helped to submit all the documents! Thank you so much!! read more

This was one of the best bureaucratic processes I have ever experienced. The location was relatively easy to find and I was out within the hour, which was perfect because I did street parking in front of the building. Upon entering the consulate office, I went through a metal detector and also had to put my phone in a cubby with a key. I did not have to wait long and was immediately processed by the time of my appointment. The woman helping me out was incredibly patient and thoughtful while also answering my questions and providing information. I went in for a work visa and received my passport back in the mail within a week and this is during a holiday as well. read more

German Consulate General - Embassy Near Me - Los Angeles, California

I was charged $10, "cash only" to have the passport mailed to my mother and I was promised she would have to sign for it. They lied. It was left smashed into my mother's mailbox and not signed for. They are not helpful to their fellow German citizens, they lie and they like to abuse their power. Shame on them ! read more

I had a really wonderful experience at the German Consulate in LA. I was working with Martina to process my german work visa right before Christmas, and Martina really went above and beyond to ensure that this gets processed, sent to Germany, and then overnight shipped back to me 2 days before Christmas and 4 days before my flight to Germany. Throughout the entire experience, Martina was extremely responsive and gave me regular updates on what was going on. She would respond with 15 min to my questions. Without Martina, I would have had to push my move to Germany. However, Martina worked relentlessly to help me and get this completed in a timely manner. I've never had a better experience with a visa office ever. Thank you so much! read more

I've visited numerous consulates for different countries over the years and never encountered such helpful or professional staff as I did here. Susanne was excellent. I came unprepared and she still did her best to help me since I drove all the way up from San Diego (not that it's that far). I'm not sure that I'll be able to get my visa, but they were at least willing to accept what I brought and start the process. The one negative- I do wish the office building where this consulate is located were a bit better maintained. This is not the consulate's fault though, and their office was neat and tidy... exactly what I would expect from a German government facility. read more

Martina Tassius is such a nice and great lady. She takes time and explains the process and help as much as she can.

This was the best experience. The people there were super helpful answered all our questions. The man we spoke to was very pleasant, cracked a joke or two. We were missing a document and he was super nice about it. The security guard was also friendly. Picture booth there was helpful for the passport. Thanks for making it so easy!! read more

I wish I could write this review without any stars but... First of all white people with really really really bad attitude. Thanks to security guard at the office which are super super super nice and friendly! They forgot to call me and when I tried to call them I was going to voice mail. They don't even have a proper representative. The woman kept telling me that we have sent you an email and when I proved to her they do t even have my email address and they forgot about my visa, she started showing me a messed up white attitude (booth #2). You guys are horrible, you should treat visitors a lot better because guess who's gonna spend money in your country? By the way, they don't tell you that for your connection flight you may need additional visa, even they know about it, these people are horrible, karma will get'em read more

Very efficient and speedy process in getting a new (German) passport. Everyone there was very friendly, except the man handling my paperwork. I wish I'd have known the consulate was on the 5th floor, as the doorman just pointed to the elevator, but didn't bother telling me which floor the consulate was on. And fiy, don't bother taking the stairs...the doors to each floor are locked. read more

German Consulate General - Embassy Near Me - Los Angeles, California

Ausgezeichnet! As my wife carries German citizenship and we wanted our kids to do the same. We have come to this consulate twice now with the kids and have been super impressed both times. This consulate, which is located in the Miracle Mile, has no great access to parking. You will need to pay cash to park your car here so make sure to bring some. Once you get up to the floor, it's easy to find the offices, the guard is friendly, and the office is spacious. It could use some help decor-wise. They even have a little activity area for kids. Our appointment this last time was set for 10:00 AM. We were probably 5 minutes early, but right at 10:00 AM our counselor sat down and assisted us. She was very thorough and moved at a much faster pace than I expected. The appointment ended by 10:15! Maybe part of that had to do with my wife's ability to ensure everything was taken care of, but either way, so efficient! Within 2 weeks, the passport had arrived which was earlier than they even estimated. Note: Children's passports are processed in the US which is why this came so quickly. Adult passports are sent off to Germany and then sent back to the US once completed. Please don't anticipate a 2 week turnaround for an adult passport, it will likely take 4-6 weeks. read more

German Consulate General - Feeling so German today. - Embassy Near Me - Los Angeles, California

I went to German Consulate for my business visa and it was not easy for two reasons: 1) for both invitation letter & verification of employment letter, the consulate would need ORIGINAL version, not the scanned copy. Please note this requirement is shown on the webpage but did not show on the pdf checklist file. So I have to spend time to re-collect the original version 2) I made two typos on my application material. The staffs are polite and professional, most importantly, they could think from my prospective and provide suggestions to solve my issue. The Staff (Mary) was super friendly and she worked with all cross function teams to help me solve both issues, and eventually I got my visa just in time before my travel date. I really appreciate Mary's support, not only because this saves me lots of time and energy, but also because you really see there is someone who really cares about you, and strive for excellence to help you! Hubert is also helpful, explaining to me all the procedures and share with me many travelling tips :-) Definitely 5 stars, best experience I've ever had in last few years. read more

I came here to help an elderly family member deal with some paper work and was forced to turn over my cell phone at the security desk. When it was handed back to me, my previously immaculate phone had a huge crack that spanned the entire screen. I discovered it mere minutes after turning my phone back on while in the elevator, and I immediately went back up with my (German-fluent) husband to confront the security employee. The little weasel had conveniently snuck off for lunch, so we spoke with an office manager who accused us of lying and refused to check the cameras to prove what happened. He then claimed there was nothing we could do but wait for the employee to return, and again said that there was absolutely no way this happened while my phone was under their watch. They were extremely rude and refused to accept any responsibility. They basically accused us of trying to scam them out of $100 by lying about what happened to my phone screen. This is NOT ok, especially when you FORCE guests to hand over their phones to YOUR staff! You will absolutely be hearing from me in a letter. read more

I had a really pleasant time here! At first I was intimidated by the negative reviews, but the security guard is very nice and helpful. I came in at 10:45 am for a blocked account and was nervous because the hours listed was until 11:00 am but I sat for maybe ten minutes and was helped by a very nice lady and they were very accommodating even with my unrelated questions after processing my paperwork. I also used the photo booth machine to take my passport sized pictures and it costs $5 so if you need photos I'd recommend having a $5 bill or ones on you, but you could also break a bill with the valet downstairs. I'll be coming back for a student visa appointment so I will write an update on my experience and how fast the blocked account processes. read more

Considering this is a government entity (albeit not a US gov't entity), the staff here was very helpful! I came in with a very complicated request, and although they ultimately weren't able to help, they did everything they could to help. My query was escalated to the highest supervisor present, but what I was asking for was just not something they could do. *I'm not the kind of person that asks to speak to a supervisor. read more

They are always really professional and try their best to help you! I came for my visa, and they helped me process my documents super quick! The security is so good as well!! read more

Wow! The easiest consulate we've ever dealt with :) So amazed by how helpful and patient the person we spoke to on the phone. Traveling is already stressful as it is and trying to get a Visa is also a pain, but they certainly made it quick and easy! read more

The German Consulate General in LA is hands down the best! This is my second time applying for a tourist visa. The first time I applied, I had incomplete documents. I was told to email the documents and they will call me once approved. I applied Monday, emailed the docs the same day, and was informed Wednesday afternoon that my passport was ready for pickup. Susanne was extremely patient and helpful with me. I mailed in my second application. I actually preferred in-person application but I couldn't get an appointment soon enough. I emailed them and they replied an hour later, advising me to mail my application. So I sent in my application via FedEx priority express on Thursday night, it was received 10:00 am Friday. I was afraid my visa will not be released on time and it made me so anxious. (Side note: do not apply too close to your travel dates.) Sent them an email, I did not receive a reply this time. Then I got an email from FedEx the next Wednesday saying at 2:00 PM, they scanned a package from the German Consulate. So it took me less than a week from application to getting my passport with visa back. Danke sehr! read more

I can't believe how rude the Visa Lady was.. For a representative of German Country, she did not have any manners, let alone respect for customers. Why would Germany with all the bad history choose such individuals to represent a country that should be embracing visitors? I read many bad comments on Google as well and wonder why nobody from the US State Department does anything about this? What's next ? A Swastika? read more

Ok I couldn't get my tax refund at the airport because I forgot the goods in my chamadan or actually I didn't know that I had to show them at the tax refund area! And it's been a nightmare to get this back. I just hate giving away about $500. Yes I want this money but how do I get it back? At the airport they told me not to worry, just when I'm back at the states I should go to German embassy and they will refund my tax. So I said ok that should be easy right? Wrong! So I came here thinking gonna get my money back, and they told me can't refund any money here. All they did is stamp my receipt and yet I need to go or mail it to the tax refund service. So they asked $28 for this stamp plus I had to pay parking another $4. Thank goodness it took him about an hour or else I was gonna pay $16 lol. So do your self a favor and get your refunds at the airport without any fees! The staff was nice and polite. The refund hours are from 8-11 mon to fri. I was there at 1 but they still took me in. At least I didn't have to make second trip back without any money! read more

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Very friendly, helpful, and efficient! My wife and I went earlier this month for our visas to Germany. The consular officer was extremely helpful and patient in sorting out our paperwork, and accommodating our travel requests. Our visas arrived within the same week. I realized when the visas had arrived that I had made a mistake in my paperwork and specified the wrong entry date. I contacted the consulate, and they were extremely helpful and accommodating in helping me get the error corrected. Within 2 weeks, not only did I get my passport back the first time with a visa, but I've also sent it back, and received my amended visa! Throughout the process, the officer I worked with was extremely patient and helpful. I can't praise her work ethic enough! Having immigrated to the US from India several years back, I've been to several consulates worldwide. Truly, this is the most efficient, helpful, and friendly consulate I have ever visited. Not only they are very efficient in processing things, they also go above and beyond in helping you in every way they can. read more

I took a Friend of mine there to have her renew her Passport. We had an appointment for her, but not for myself. But while I was there, ask if they could help me anyways with my Paperwork. No problem at all: So I turned over my Paperwork (BBG) and the Lady behind the Counter was very friendly and helpful, smiled the entire Time and explained what to expect next. A great experience, if you ask me. I had no appointment, but was treated like a human being. (American Consulate, are you listening???) Anyways, as soon as I got Home, I got an Email-confirmation in my Inbox from Saskia, who wanted a few more documents to complete my application. Wow, that was fast! No big deal, off I sent it. For People like Tom: Treat People the way you like to be treated, and everything will work out for you. read more

I've been to this consulate twice. Once for a Schengen visa in 2019 and again in 2021 for a national visa. Both times the people who work here were very friendly and the whole process was very smooth. Special thank you to Martina Tassius who helped me get the national visa in under two weeks! read more

That was one of the best experiences ever , super friendly staff , I arrived an hour before my appointment but was seen immediately no waiting around , total appointment took lees that 20 minutes ...The New Photo Machine is AWESOME and only $5.00 for 4 pictures , you only need one ... Overall a very very pleasant ans easy experience. read more

Very friendly staff, respond to emails in a timely manner. Reason for 4 stars instead of 5 is because they have very limited hours of operation and you cannot schedule appointments for things like getting a document certified. read more

Thanks David S. for setting this straight and for Tom - you are an idiot!! I always received a nice friendly quick service when I have to come here. The only disadvantage is the Valet Parking. read more

We always have a very good experience. The people are extremely helpful and friendly, and wait time is close to zero. When we visited the other day to renew our passports, I had an even better experience. Back home, I realized that I forgot one of my bags at the Consulate. I called. Turns out that it was still there including my iPad. Armando, the security officer, found it. Thank you, Armando!!! read more

Fantastisch!!! I did some research beforehand and arrived well prepared early in the morning. Alina H. was genuinely helpful and the most pleasant person to work with. She handled everything very professional and efficient. 5 stars for the staff and the entire process! Thank you German Consulate for this great experience! My advice to future customers and customers who were not satisfied: Do your research, fill out the forms before the meeting and arrive early! read more

Very clean. Very efficient. Staff is polite and professional. They have a photo booth for passport pics! Bring cash for parking $2 for every 15 minutes/Maximum $16 read more

Constumer service is a just a fancy word to them. Everyone is so strict and rude. If you have something to follow up, they would not answer the phone. They don't care if they made a mistake and that is wasting your time. I absolutely hated that I had to deal with them. But I see many good reviews and I think that is because they are RACIST! read more

I don't know what to say but I have noticed new staff are working there right now ! Registering birth in Germany through the consulate isn't easy one at all ! Please make sure all papers are ready ! read more

Great customer service and a sweet Martina, she was helpful to our family , to get our passport before Christmas, and we are happy to be with the family in Germany during the Christmas time. Thank you very much and happy holiday for you and your colleagues read more

I applied there for a Schengen visa via mail. Just make sure that you collect and prepare your documents correctly. I was worried that it would take a longer time than 20 days or so but my passport came back within a week. I'd really appreciate their good work. read more

I reached out to the consulate; spoke to a gentleman that would not provide his name and was very rude. I guess they don't believe in customer service. read more