Frankfurt

Frankfurt am Main, commonly known as Frankfurt, is a bustling metropolis and one of the largest cities in Germany. As the financial heart of the country, it hosts the European Central Bank and the German Stock Exchange, making it a hub for business and finance. The city's skyline is marked by an impressive array of skyscrapers, a rarity in Germany, earning it the nickname "Mainhattan." Frankfurt is also a center for education and culture, with numerous museums, galleries, and the famous Frankfurt Book Fair. The city's diverse population contributes to a vibrant culinary scene, offering a wide range of international cuisines. Despite its modern facade, Frankfurt has a rich history, with the old town, Römerberg, featuring traditional half-timbered houses and the Gothic Frankfurt Cathedral. The city is well-connected by a major airport and an extensive public transportation network, making it an accessible destination for travelers. Green spaces such as the Palmengarten and the banks of the Main River provide residents and visitors with a respite from the urban environment. Frankfurt's cultural calendar is packed with events, including the Museumsuferfest and the Christmas market, which are among the largest and most popular in Germany.

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SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.

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SJB Global

SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.
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Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

Visa & Residency

Obtaining a residency in Germany involves several steps and the process can vary depending on the type of visa one is applying for. For expatriates, the most common types of residency visas include the EU Blue Card, Residence Permit for Employment, and Residence Permit for Self-Employed Business Purposes. The EU Blue Card is targeted at highly skilled professionals from non-EU countries who have a job offer in Germany with a minimum salary threshold. Applicants must have a recognized university degree or equivalent. The Residence Permit for Employment is for those who have a specific job offer in Germany, while the Residence Permit for Self-Employed Business Purposes is for entrepreneurs planning to start a business in Germany. To apply for any of these visas, one must first secure a job offer or prove their business plan's viability. The next step is to schedule an appointment with the German embassy or consulate in one's home country to submit the visa application. Required documents typically include a valid passport, proof of health insurance, proof of accommodation in Germany, and relevant certificates or diplomas. For the freelance visa, which is popular among digital nomads, applicants must also provide evidence of their freelance work, such as contracts or letters of intent from potential clients, and prove that their work is in demand in Germany. Once the initial visa is granted, which allows entry into Germany, expatriates must then register with the local residents' registration office and apply for a residence permit to stay longer than the visa's validity. The residence permit application process involves providing additional documentation, such as proof of financial stability and a clean criminal record. The duration of the residence permit can vary, but it is often issued for one year and can be renewed. The EU Blue Card, for example, can lead to permanent residency after 33 months, or 21 months with a B1 level of German language proficiency. Overall, while the process can be bureaucratic and requires thorough preparation, it is generally considered average in terms of difficulty compared to other countries. It is essential to start the application process well in advance of the intended move date and to ensure all paperwork is meticulously completed and accurate.

Cost of Living

The cost of living in Frankfurt is high, reflecting its status as a major financial center with a strong economy and high demand for housing and services.

Weather

Frankfurt experiences a temperate oceanic climate with cold winters and warm summers, and rainfall distributed evenly throughout the year.

Healthcare in Frankfurt

Frankfurt is home to several renowned medical institutions, including the University Hospital Frankfurt, which is one of the largest and most prestigious hospitals in Germany, offering a wide range of medical services and cutting-edge research. Another notable facility is the Hospital zum Heiligen Geist, which provides comprehensive healthcare services and is known for its patient-centered approach.

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