It depends on where you're coming from. I came from the US and 3 choices: the first was a 90 day visitor visa (within that time frame if you can find work you can stay, if not you have to leave the EU and cannot return for another 6 months), the second was getting a job before I came (and then your visa is a working longer term visa), the third was a student visa (which requires you be enrolled in a university/school but means you can only work 90 full or 180 half days a year). I originally entered under a student visa, which was changed to a residents visa when I married my husband (who is German). There are different regulations, however, for different countries. hope this helps!

Please stop posting this on the Ecuador expat exchange. Why does this keep showing up in the Ecuador forum??

Hello everyone. Sorry to be that late to answer and thank you for your replies and help. I guess i will first try to take language classes as i do want to socialize with people and know more about the culture. Unfortunatly my husband company only rents flats in Neuss, small town, i think it may be boring to stay there so will try to get something in dusseldorf as it might be more alive. Thanks for the diffent link you sent, its give me an idea of what to except. Still making our decision and looks like we will try this new experience :) Hi Soniaa, We live very close to Dusseldorf, and my husband has a similar salary. I am a stay-at-home-mom, and find it very easy to live on his salary. We have been back to visit my family at least once a year, and save as well. I think it depends a lot on the standard of living you are used to. (I had a car in the States, don't here, etc). As far as average for renting a flat, it really depends immensely on the area of the city you choose and the size of the flat. Try www.immobilienscout24.de for a great place to start searching for flats. I think you will be able to find a job, but if you plan to stay here for a few years or more, I would definitely recommend learning German. It has been my life-saver. Without it it was so hard to make friends and even do the shopping, etc. I would really encourage you to consider it, at least. Feel free to contact me with any questions or just to vent about the stress - I went through all of that, too! Joannabanana87 at google mail dot com. Good luck!

I am considering moving my kids to this school aged 4, 7 and 10. Iam worried that my kids will fall behind though as they are used to a British International School in Shanghai and I believe Germans start 'proper' school later at age 6 when we are used to aged 4? How does this school compare to the Brits? Should I be concerned? Thanks Dear Guest on commented Oct 27th, 2010, I would greatly appreciate more thoughts on USA college placements from Frankfurt International School. Why is it likely to hurt chances? Your comments are very valued.

Hi, according to http://www.immobilienscout24.de/immobilienbewertung/immobilienpreise/bayern/aschaffenburg+kreis/alzenau.htm#wohnung_miete the average rent in this area for a flat is between EUR 6.51 - 8.00 per sqm.