Guide to Residency in Germany

Obtaining a residency visa in Germany is not always easy, but our Guide to Residency in Germany gives newcomers an overview of the steps involved and advice from others who have already navigated the process.

• Determine the type of residence permit you need
  • For work purposes, you may need an EU Blue Card, a work permit, or a permit for self-employed activities.
  • For study purposes, you may need a student visa or a student applicant visa.
  • For family reunification, you may need a family reunification visa.
• Gather required documents
  • Valid passport
  • Completed application form (Available at: German Missions Abroad)
  • Biometric passport photos
  • Proof of financial resources (e.g., bank statements, scholarship award letter, employment contract)
  • Health insurance coverage
  • For work permits: employment contract or job offer
  • For student visas: university admission letter
  • For family reunification: proof of relationship (e.g., marriage certificate, birth certificate)
• Schedule an appointment at the German mission in your home country
  • Find the German embassy or consulate responsible for your region.
  • Visit their website and schedule an appointment for a visa interview.
• Attend your visa interview
  • Bring all required documents.
  • Be prepared to answer questions about your purpose of stay and background.
  • Pay the visa application fee.
• Wait for a decision on your application
• After arrival in Germany, register your address at the local registration office (Bürgeramt)
  • Find the Bürgeramt responsible for your area.
  • Schedule an appointment if necessary.
  • Bring your passport and a copy of your lease or rental agreement.
• Apply for a residence permit at the local foreigners' office (Ausländerbehörde)
  • Find the Ausländerbehörde responsible for your area.
  • Schedule an appointment if necessary.
  • Bring all required documents (similar to your visa application).
• Apply for a Tax Number (Steueridentifikationsnummer)
  • After registering your address, you will automatically receive a tax ID by post within a few weeks.
  • If you do not receive it, contact the Federal Central Tax Office (Bundeszentralamt für Steuern): BZSt Website
• Enroll in a German language course (if required)
  • For some residence permits, you may need to show proficiency in German.
  • Find a language course provider and enroll in a course if necessary.
• Extend your residence permit (if necessary)
  • Visit the Ausländerbehörde before your residence permit expires.
  • Bring required documents (e.g., proof of financial resources, health insurance, employment contract).

Important Notes

The process may vary slightly depending on your country of origin and the specific purpose of your stay. Always check the website of the German mission in your home country for the most accurate information.

German language skills are highly beneficial for the application process and for integrating into German society.

What tips do expats have about residency and visas in Germany?

"If you are from the EU, you don't need a visa nor are their residency requirements. If you are from outside of the EE, a visa & work permit are needed, but easy to get if you come to work," commented one expat living in Dusseldorf, Germany.

"To visit Germany, visitors typically need to apply for a visa, depending on their nationality and the purpose of their trip. Generally, visitors from a number of non-EU countries must apply for a Schengen visa, while UK citizens and citizens of some other countries may enter Germany without a visa. The Schengen visa application process requires documents such as a valid passport, a passport-sized photograph and a covering letter outlining the purpose of the visit. In addition, applicants may need to provide documents such as proof of accommodation and proof of sufficient funds to cover their stay in the country. Those wishing to reside in Germany for a longer period may apply for a national visa or residence permit. To apply for a residence permit, applicants must submit an application form to the relevant German Embassy in their home country, along with copies of passport biometric pages, proof of accommodation, a valid health insurance policy, and proof of sufficient funds to support their stay in the country. Applicants may also need to provide documents related to the purpose of their stay, such as a work offer, if applicable. Depending on the nature of the visa sought, additional documents might be requested before the application can be processed," mentioned one expat living in Germany.