If the appointment is cancelled, do you have to re-book it?

Yes, if an appointment is cancelled, you must reapply. The process varies depending on the reason for cancellation.

#Types of Appointment Cancellations

#Cancellation by You

• You noticed missing documents
• A date change is needed
• Change of plans

#Cancellation by IDATA

• System error
• Consulate availability issue
• Missing documents (after interview)

#Cancellation by the Consulate

• Change of authorized personnel
• Administrative reasons
• In emergencies

#Process for Cancellation by You

#Cancellation via IDATA Account

1. Log in to your IDATA account
2. Go to "Existing Appointments" → select the appointment
3. Click the "Cancel" button
4. You must cancel 48 hours in advance (late cancellations are not accepted)

#After Cancellation

• The appointment slot becomes available (another person can take it)
• A new appointment application is not automatically opened
• You need to make a new application to IDATA
• The iDATA fee you previously paid is lost

#New Appointment Duration

• The system searches for a date 2-4 weeks later
• In some cities, you may need to wait 6-8 weeks
• The iDATA fee you paid is not refunded — you have to pay again

#Cancellation by IDATA

#Reason: Missing Documents

• If the officer noticed a missing document during the IDATA interview
• You can complete the document within the same appointment (7 business days)
• If the missing document is completed, it's a delay, not a cancellation

#Reason: System Error

• IDATA will inform you via email/SMS
• A new appointment is automatically assigned (usually 1-2 weeks later)
• No extra fee

#Reason: Consulate Availability

• Call IDATA customer service
• State an urgent reason
• The new appointment will be expedited

#Cancellation by the Consulate

#Reason: Visa Rejection

• Documents were sent to the consulate via DHL
• The consulate made a rejection decision
• Passport is returned (no visa)
• The remonstration procedure (objection at the mission) was abolished on 1 July 2025 (Federal Foreign Office, checked 14.10.2026)
• Your options: a new application that addresses the refusal reasons, or legal action as set out in the notice of legal remedies (Rechtsbehelfsbelehrung) in the refusal; the deadline and the competent court are stated there

#Reason: Missing Documents (After Consulate Interview)

• For some visa types, the consulate requests an interview (rare cases)
• If documents are missing, 4-6 weeks for completion
• During this process, the appointment is not cancelled, but put on hold

#Reason: Change of Personnel / Administrative Reasons

• IDATA will inform you
• A new appointment is assigned with priority by the consulate
• Usually a 1-2 week delay

#Document Status After Cancellation

#In IDATA Account

• Documents are saved (your information remains recorded)
• There is an option to copy old documents for a new application
• You don't need to fill out the entire form again

#Documents Sent to the Consulate

• If your documents were sent to the consulate, a written request is needed to get them back
• Generally, digital copies of your documents remain stored at IDATA

#Practical Strategies

#Before Cancelling an Appointment

1. Check for an urgent reason — is cancellation really necessary?
2. Can you change the date? (48+ hours in advance)
3. If there are missing documents → completion within 7 days is possible during the appointment

#Date Change (Without Cancellation)

• "Date Change" from your IDATA account
• Can be done 48 hours in advance
• The 1st change is free, 2nd and subsequent changes are 15 €/change

#Saving Money for a New Appointment

• The iDATA fee is not refunded — you have to pay again
• The consulate fee of 75 € is refunded if documents were not sent to the consulate

#Common Problems and Solutions

#Problem 1: IDATA is Not Taking Action

• After 1 week, call customer service — +90 850 233 53 21
• Send a written email + screenshot
• Social media (Twitter @idatatr) is sometimes faster

#Problem 2: New Appointment is Too Late

• Write an urgent reason letter
• Email IDATA directly
• Send a direct letter to the consulate (urgent reason)

#Problem 3: Passport Sent to the Consulate

• Written request to get documents back
• Takes 2-4 weeks
• The file is closed at the consulate, but remains recorded for a new application

#Problem 4: New Application After Visa Rejection

• Understand and correct the reason for rejection
• Take legal action as set out in the notice of legal remedies (Rechtsbehelfsbelehrung) in the refusal (remonstration abolished), or
• Correct documents + new application (1-2 months later)
• All fees again — visa fee €75 + iDATA service fee of €39.92 and/or €12 appointment booking fee (charged in Turkish lira; German missions in Türkiye, checked 14.10.2026)

#Important Notes

• Cancelled appointments are recorded — IDATA has a history
• Frequent cancellations can have a blacklist effect (especially during summer season)
• Refunds are limited — IDATA service fee is not refunded
• Visa fee refund only if documents were not sent to the consulate

#Practical Tips

• Double-check documents before the appointment — to avoid missing anything
• Decide 48 hours in advance — to be able to make changes
• Keep your account registered with IDATA — new applications will be faster
• Keep an urgent reason letter ready — send it via email if necessary

Related: IDATA application | Consulate appointment.