What are the visa & residency requirements in Germany?
We asked people about the visa & residency requirements in Germany, they wrote...
"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," wrote a member who made the move to Germany.
Get Quote
GeoBlue is a trusted leader in international health insurance. Wherever your destination, GeoBlue can keep you and your family covered with the right health insurance. Get a GeoBlue Quote Today!
GeoBlue is a trusted leader in international health insurance. Wherever your destination, GeoBlue can keep you and your family covered with the right health insurance. Get a GeoBlue Quote Today!
Get Quote
"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," explained one expat living in Dusseldorf, Germany.
Other Questions:
- What do I need to know before retiring in Germany?
- How do I meet people in Germany?
- What is life like in Germany?
- Is there a lot of crime in Germany?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Germany accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Germany like?
- Is the cost of living in Germany high?
- What advice do you have for expats having a baby in Germany?
- What are healthcare services like in Germany?
- Is the cost of living in Germany high?
- What type of recreational facilities are in Germany?
- What is the weather like in Germany?
- Are there good restaurants in Germany?
- Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Germany?
- What are the visa & residency requirements in Germany?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Germany?
- What do I need to know when buying property in Germany?
- Are foreigners allowed to own property in Germany?
- What appliances are typically included in a rental?
What are the visa & residency requirements in Germany?
If you live in Germany, newcomers to Germany would love to hear your answer to this question:
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.