Migration questions Germany

To obtain a residence permit in Germany, you must follow certain steps and submit different documents depending on the type of permit.

Types of residence permits

1. Temporary residence permit: Usually issued for purposes such as work, study, or family reunification. The validity period is typically one year but can be extended if conditions are met.
2. Permanent residence permit: Allows you to reside in Germany for an unlimited period. To obtain this permit, you generally need to hold a temporary residence permit for a specified period, demonstrate financial stability, and meet other criteria such as language skills.
3. EU Blue Card (EU Blue Card): Designed for highly qualified workers from non-EU countries. A university degree and a job offer in Germany with a minimum annual salary are required.

Documents required

• Valid passport: The passport must be valid for the entire period of stay.
• Questionnaire: Completed and signed.
• Proof of health insurance: Mandatory for all applicants.
• Biometric photos: Recent passport-sized photos.
• Proof of financial solvency: Bank statements, employment contract, or blocked bank account for students.
• Proof of housing: Tenancy agreement and confirmation from the landlord.
• Documents proving the purpose of the stay: Depending on the reason for the stay (e.g., employment contract, university enrolment letter, marriage certificate).

Application process

1. Residence registration: You must register at the local registration office (Einwohnermeldeamt) within 14 days of arrival.
2. Gathering the necessary documents: Ensure all documents are complete, translated into German if necessary, and certified.
3. Applying: Submit your application at the local foreigners' office (Ausländerbehörde) or at the German diplomatic mission if applying from abroad.
4. Biometric data collection: Fingerprints and photographs will be required.
5. Interview: Some applicants may need to undergo an interview to verify the details of the application.
6. Processing time: Temporary permits are typically processed within a few weeks to a few months, depending on the completeness of the application and the authorities' workload. Permanent permits may take several months due to extensive checks.

• Fees: Fees depend on the type of permit and the nationality of the applicant. Temporary permits cost between €56 and €100, while permanent permits may range from €200 to €300.

Additional requirements for a permanent residence permit

• Duration of residence: Usually requires 3-5 years of residence with a temporary residence permit.
• Financial stability: Proof of sufficient income and housing.
• Contributions to the pension system: At least 60 months of contributions to the mandatory pension system.
• Language skills: Basic knowledge of German (level B1) and completion of an integration course.

To submit documents for obtaining a residence permit in Germany, follow these steps:

 

Ensure you have a valid visa: If you are in Germany on a visa, make sure it corresponds to the type of residence permit you are applying for (work visa, student visa, family reunification visa, etc.).

 

 

 

Register your address: Within 14 days of arriving in Germany, you must register at the local registration office.

 

 

 

Obtain health insurance: Health insurance is mandatory for all residents of Germany. You can choose between public and private insurance depending on your status and preferences.

 

 

 

Open a bank account: To confirm financial stability, you will need a German bank account. This is necessary to demonstrate sufficient funds for living in Germany.

 

 

 

Schedule an appointment: After collecting all documents, you need to make an appointment at the local foreigners' office. In some cases, documents can be sent via email or through an online portal before a personal visit.

 

 

 

Additional information and assistance can be obtained from immigration lawyers or on official websites such as these.

For citizens of the European Union and the European Economic Area, staying and working in Germany have specific features that make the process of integration and living in the country relatively simple.

 

 

 

Residence

 

 

 

Citizens of EU and EEA countries, as well as Switzerland, can freely enter and stay in Germany without a visa or residence permit for up to 90 days. For stays longer than 90 days, they must register at the local registration office within two weeks of arrival in the country. This registration is mandatory without which there may be problems accessing various services and the ability to work officially.

 

 

 

Employment

 

 

 

Citizens of the EU and EEA have the right to free employment in Germany without the need to obtain a work permit. This means that they can work in any field and in any position, provided they have a valid national passport or ID card. They also have the right to equal treatment in the labor sector, which includes access to the same social and labor rights as German citizens.

 

 

 

Residence and social rights

 

 

 

After five years of continuous legal residence in Germany, EU and EEA citizens automatically acquire the right to permanent residence. This right allows living in Germany without additional conditions, such as having sufficient funds or health insurance. Obtaining a permanent residence document is not obligatory but can simplify interactions with local authorities.

 

 

 

Education and professional qualification

 

 

 

EU and EEA citizens have the right to education and vocational training in Germany on the same terms as German citizens. Their school and professional qualifications are automatically recognized, allowing them to work in their specialization without additional procedures. Moreover, there are financial support programs, such as Erasmus+, that provide grants for studying and internships in other EU countries.

 

 

 

Social benefits

 

 

 

EU and EEA citizens residing and working in Germany have the right to receive social benefits, such as unemployment benefits and pension payments. In the event of unemployment, they can register with the employment agency and receive corresponding payments. Upon retirement, they will also receive a pension from all countries where they have worked and made contributions.

For citizens from countries outside the European Union (EU), Germany offers several opportunities to obtain a residence permit and work.

 

Types of visas and residence permits

 

Work visa: To obtain a work visa, a recognized qualification and an employment contract with an employer in Germany are required. Since March 2024, a new law has been in effect that simplifies the rules for qualified specialists, allowing them to work even in professions that previously required specific education.

 

EU Blue Card: Designed for highly qualified specialists. It requires having a higher education degree and an employment contract with a specified minimum salary. From November 2023, IT specialists can obtain an EU Blue Card based on professional experience, even without formal education.

 

Job seeker visa: The "Opportunity Card" visa allows citizens from non-EU countries to come to Germany for up to one year to search for a job. To obtain it, specific criteria must be met, including knowledge of the German language and having sufficient funds to live on.

 

Temporary Residence Permit: Issued for a period from six months to several years, depending on the purpose of stay (work, study, marriage, etc.). This residence permit can be extended under certain conditions.

 

Procedures for Recognition of Qualifications

 

Most work visas require official recognition of foreign qualifications in Germany. This process may include verification of diplomas and professional experience. The recognition of qualifications is especially important for professionals in fields such as medicine, engineering, and teaching.

 

Opportunities for Students and Trainees

 

New rules simplify the process of obtaining a visa for professional training and qualification enhancement. This requires prior recognition of foreign qualifications and compliance with language requirements. Students can also apply for an extension of their residence permit after graduation in order to seek employment.

 

Permanent Residence

 

Qualified specialists can obtain permanent residence after three years of working in Germany, while holders of the EU Blue Card can do so after 27 months. This allows them to live and work in Germany on a permanent basis, without being limited to the initial conditions of their employment contract.

Start the extension process at least three months before the expiration of your current residence permit. This is important to avoid potential delays and issues with legal residence in the country.

 

 

 

Receive an Appointment Notification: In most cases, you will receive an invitation for an appointment from the Migration Office by mail. This invitation will specify the date of the meeting and the list of necessary documents to bring.

 

 

 

Ensure that you have all the necessary documents for the extension. Typically required are:

 

- Valid passport

 

- Current residence permit

 

- Proof of financial stability (e.g., bank statements, employment contract)

 

- Proof of health insurance

 

- Photo

 

- Additional documents depending on your status (e.g., proof of study, family documents)

 

In many regions, the processing fee is accepted only in cash, and the cost of the extension is around 100 euros.

 

 

 

Personal Visit to the Migration Office: At the scheduled meeting, you need to appear in person at the Migration Office. If there are changes in your personal situation (e.g., change in marital status, health condition), bring relevant documents to verify these changes.

 

 

 

Await the Decision: After submitting all necessary documents, you will need to wait for a decision from the Migration Office. The review process usually takes several weeks. It is important to apply for an extension before your current residence permit expires, otherwise, you may lose the right to legally reside in Germany.

 

 

 

Additional Tips

 

Check Current Requirements: Rules and requirements may change, so it is recommended to always check the latest information on official websites.

 

Prepare for an Interview: There may occasionally be a need for an interview to clarify information. Be prepared to answer questions about your current situation and future plans.

 

Do Not Miss the Deadline: Missing the deadline for applying for an extension may result in losing the right to stay further in Germany, and you may have to leave the country.

In Germany, the healthcare system includes two main types of insurance: public and private. The choice between them depends on your income, employment status, and personal preferences. Public insurance offers stability and coverage for the whole family, while private insurance provides more options for customizing the plan and access to private medical services. Arranging insurance is a mandatory step for all residents of Germany and is necessary for obtaining a residence permit and employment in the country.

 

 

 

Public Health Insurance

 

Who is Required to Arrange: All employees with an annual income below €69,300 (as of 2024) are required to be insured under the public system; students, retirees, and the unemployed must also have public insurance.

 

 

 

Advantages:

 

Contributions are calculated as a percentage of your income (approximately 14-16%), half of which is paid by the employer.

 

Inclusion of family members at no additional charge (e.g., spouses and children if they do not have their own income).

 

Coverage of most medical services with minimal co-payments.

 

 

 

How to apply: When starting a job, your employer registers you with one of the state insurance companies, but you can choose a specific company if you wish. Usually, students contact the insurance company themselves, presenting a student ID for a rate of about 120-130 euros per month.

 

 

 

Private Health Insurance

 

Who can choose: Individuals with an income over €69,300 per year; freelancers and self-employed; civil servants.

 

 

 

Advantages:

 

Individual plans and the possibility to choose broader coverage.

 

Opportunity to reduce contributions by increasing the deductible.

 

Quicker access to specialists and the option to choose private clinics.

 

 

 

How to apply: It is recommended to use health insurance brokers to choose the best plan. Many private insurance companies offer online forms for application.

 

 

 

Choice of insurance company

 

For state insurance, one can choose from many companies like AOK, TK, Barmer, and others.

 

For private insurance, one can use comparison sites such as Check24 to select the best offer.

Main conditions for naturalization

 

Duration of residence: From June 27, 2024, the minimum residence period in Germany for obtaining citizenship is reduced from eight to five years. In case of exceptional achievements, this period can be reduced to three years.

 

Right to unlimited residence: At the time of application for citizenship, one must have the right to permanent residence or a long-term residence permit in the EU.

 

Financial stability: The applicant must be financially independent and able to support themselves and their family without resorting to social benefits. Exceptions are possible if the applicant lost their job for reasons beyond their control. If the applicant received social assistance from the state in the last two years, the issuance of citizenship is postponed for two years accordingly, and during these two years, they must provide proof of income. Unemployment benefits, if the person was employed and the contract ended, are not considered social assistance.

 

Knowledge of the German language: One must have proficiency in the German language at the B1 level according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages. Proof may include language course certificates or school diplomas (issued only by a German school).

 

Social and cultural integration: One is required to pass a citizenship test that checks knowledge of the basic legal system, society, and history of Germany. Exemption from the test is possible if the applicant has a diploma from a German school or university.

 

Absence of criminal offenses: The applicant should not have serious convictions. Minor offenses, such as small fines, usually do not affect the naturalization process.

 

Dual citizenship: It is now possible to retain original citizenship when obtaining a German passport, allowing for continued ties with the home country.

 

Easier for children: Children born in Germany to foreign parents can obtain citizenship if one of the parents has legally resided in Germany for more than five years.

 

Recommendations: Legislation may change; it is recommended to check current requirements and procedures on official websites and consult specialists.

Yes, citizens with a temporary residence permit in Germany can leave and return to the country. However, there are certain rules and nuances that must be considered.

 

 

 

Traveling possibilities: With a temporary residence permit, you have the right to travel freely within the Schengen area. This includes staying in other Schengen Agreement countries for up to 90 days within any 180-day period.

 

 

Types of temporary residence permits and travel:

 

For holders of a standard temporary residence permit, there are usually no restrictions on entering and leaving Germany, provided you are not absent from the country for more than six consecutive months.

 

In the event of awaiting the extension of a residence permit (for example, when your application is already submitted but the new document has not yet been issued), you may be given a temporary document that allows you to stay in the country and travel while your main document is being extended.

 

 

 

Notifying authorities and obtaining permits: If your current residence permit expires while you are away, it is important to apply for an extension in advance and obtain the appropriate return permit to the country. Otherwise, you may encounter difficulties when trying to enter Germany.

 

 

 

Consultations before the trip: Before traveling, it is recommended to contact the diplomatic mission of the country you plan to visit to ensure there are no additional entry requirements. This is especially important if you are traveling with a temporary document.

 

 

 

For additional information and specific recommendations, it's always better to consult with the local foreign affairs office or a diplomatic mission.

Understand the reasons for refusal: The first step is to receive and thoroughly review the letter of refusal. This document outlines the reasons why your application was denied. The most common reasons might be a lack of documents, not meeting financial requirements, or issues with the applicant's history.

 

 

 

Correcting errors and resubmission: If the refusal was due to the absence or inadequacy of any documents, gather the missing materials and resubmit the application. Ensure that all documents are filled out correctly and meet the requirements.

 

 

 

Submitting an appeal: If you disagree with the refusal, you have the right to appeal. The refusal letter usually contains instructions for appeals, including submission deadlines. The appeal should be submitted in writing to the foreign affairs office.

 

 

 

Consultation with a lawyer: If you are unsure about your actions or the reasons for refusal seem complex, it is recommended to contact a lawyer specializing in immigration law.

 

 

 

Alternative options: If the appeal is unsuccessful, consider other types of visas and residence permits.

 

 

 

Updating status and resubmitting the application: In some cases, changes in your personal or professional life may affect the decision. In such cases, update your application and resubmit it.

 

 

 

Recommendations

 

Foreign affairs office: Always consult with the local foreign affairs office to learn about specific requirements and procedures.

 

Legal consultation: A competent lawyer will help to understand legal aspects and provide professional advice.

Why translators are needed

 

 

 

Document translation: German immigration services require official translations of all documents presented in other languages. These can include birth certificates, marriage certificates, diplomas, and other important documents.

 

Interviews and meetings: During interviews with immigration services or other official meetings, a translator will help to accurately understand the questions and provide precise answers.

 

Filling out forms and applications: Translators help correctly fill out forms and applications, avoiding errors that could lead to delays or refusals in the review process.

 

Using qualified translators in immigration procedures will help avoid errors and delays, ensuring accuracy and timeliness of all necessary actions.

 

 

 

How to find a translator

 

 

 

Professional translators' associations: National and regional translators' associations, such as the German Association of Translators and Interpreters (BDÜ), provide lists of certified translators.

 

Recommendations and reviews: Personal recommendations from colleagues, friends, or professionals who have already used translators' services can be very valuable.

 

Notary and lawyer services: Many notary and legal firms work with certified translators and can recommend reliable specialists.