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," remarked another expat who made the move to 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," explained one expat living in Dusseldorf, Germany.
PassportCard Expat Health InsuranceGet Quote
Never worry about paying your medical bills out of pocket again. The innovative PassportCard allows for a stress-free experience for all expat families, remote travelers, and workers. With a 24/7 customer service and an outstanding customer base of over 2 Million clients, it will feel like medical care at home. Get up to 10% off on your policy now.
PassportCard Expat Health InsuranceNever worry about paying your medical bills out of pocket again. The innovative PassportCard allows for a stress-free experience for all expat families, remote travelers, and workers. With a 24/7 customer service and an outstanding customer base of over 2 Million clients, it will feel like medical care at home. Get up to 10% off on your policy now.
Get Quote
Other Questions:
- What should I pack when moving to Germany?
- Where should I setup a bank account in Germany?
- Will I be able to find a job in Germany?
- What is life like in Germany?
- What do expats in Germany appreciate most about the local culture?
- What do expats find most challenging?
- 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?
- What are healthcare services like in Germany?
- What are medical services in Germany like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Germany?
- What are emergency services like in Germany?
- Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
- Are common prescription medications available in Germany?
- How are local medical facilities in Germany?
- As a foreigner living in Germany, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
- What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?
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 is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and serves as Co-President of Expat Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad 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.


