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.

• Check Eligibility for Residency
  • Review the different types of residency permits available on the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees website: Residency Permits.
  • Determine which category you fit into (e.g., employment, family reunion, studying, etc.).
  • Ensure you meet the requirements for the chosen residency permit, such as having a valid passport, health insurance, and sufficient funds.
• Find a Place to Live
  • Secure long-term accommodation in Germany, as you will need an address for your residency application.
  • Sign a rental agreement, which will be required when registering your address.
• Register Your Address
  • Visit the local Residents' Registration Office (Einwohnermeldeamt or Bürgeramt) within 14 days of moving into your new home.
  • Bring your passport, visa (if applicable), and rental agreement to register your address.
  • Obtain a confirmation of registration (Meldebescheinigung), which you will need for your residency permit application.
• Apply for a Tax Number
  • Visit the local tax office (Finanzamt) to apply for a tax identification number (Steueridentifikationsnummer).
  • Provide your passport and confirmation of registration.
  • You will receive your tax ID by mail, which is necessary for employment and tax purposes.
• Open a Bank Account
  • Choose a bank and set up an appointment to open an account.
  • Bring your passport, confirmation of registration, and, if applicable, your work contract or university enrollment documents.
• Apply for Health Insurance
  • Choose a health insurance provider, either public (Gesetzliche Krankenversicherung) or private (Private Krankenversicherung).
  • Submit an application with your personal details and proof of residency.
  • Obtain a certificate of health insurance coverage for your residency permit application.
• Apply for a Residency Permit
  • Make an appointment with the local Foreigners' Office (Ausländerbehörde) for your residency permit application.
  • Complete the application form for a residency permit, which can be found on the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees website: Application Forms.
  • Gather all required documents, including your passport, confirmation of registration, proof of health insurance, bank statements, and any other documents relevant to your situation (e.g., employment contract, university enrollment confirmation).
  • Attend your appointment and submit your application along with the required documents.
  • Pay the application fee.
  • Wait for your residency permit to be processed and issued.
• Integration Course (if required)
  • If required, enroll in an integration course to learn the German language and understand German laws, culture, and society.
  • Find a course provider and sign up for classes.
  • Attend classes and complete the course to fulfill your residency requirements.

Please note that the process for obtaining residency status in Germany can vary depending on your nationality, the purpose of your stay, and other individual circumstances. It is always best to consult the official German authorities or a legal expert for personalized advice.

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.