Moving to Germany
Step-by-step Immigration Guide

Germany, boasting one of the world's largest economies and offering universal healthcare, affordable education, and ample job opportunities, has long been a dream destination for many. However, when it comes to moving to Germany, securing the necessary visa is a crucial step.

The most direct pathway to relocate to Germany is as a skilled worker. You need to meet certain qualifications and receive a job offer from a German employer, following which you can apply for a work visa. Freelancers, on the other hand, must demonstrate a demand for their services in Germany before obtaining a visa. The German Federal Government recognizes specific professions as being in high demand:

• Experts (with at least three years of university studies or equivalent qualification).
• Qualified professionals (with at least two years of vocational training or an equivalent qualification).
• Specialists (with a university degree or equivalent, or holding a Meister or technician qualification).

Some examples of in-demand professions include software development, elderly care, civil engineering, catering services, and more.
For comprehensive guidance and legal assistance in determining your eligibility and the steps to move to Germany, consulting certified experts at Schlun and Elseven Rechtsanwälte is recommended. Their extensive experience in representing professionals like doctors, engineers, IT specialists, and managers offers valuable support during the entire relocation process.

The difficulty of relocating to Germany for non-EU citizens is influenced by factors such as nationality, industry of employment, and proficiency in the German language. Proficiency in the German language, even at a basic level, can significantly enhance access to the job market. Skilled workers in high-demand professions, including software development, IT, medicine, law, engineering, elderly care, and construction, have a more straightforward immigration process.
The immigration process is streamlined for citizens of the US, UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Andorra, San Marino, Israel, Japan, and South Korea, among others. If you are from one of these countries, you can obtain a residence permit upon entering Germany, allowing you to seek employment and accommodation within the country.

EU/EEA and Swiss citizens have the advantage of an uncomplicated move to Germany. With a place to reside, they can effortlessly relocate without the need for a job offer or contract. The position's demand or salary criteria do not apply. However, if planning to stay beyond three months, registration with the local office is essential. Post-Brexit, UK citizens are also considered non-EU citizens.

For non-EU citizens, the process of relocating to Germany involves the following steps:

1. Find and apply for a job: Job searches can be conducted through platforms like the JOBBÖRSE or EURES portal, which features job listings from across Europe.
2. Apply for a work visa and work permit: Once a job contract is secured, your employer must apply for a work permit on your behalf. You will then obtain a work visa from the German embassy in your home country.
3. Register for German health insurance: After arriving in Germany, mandatory registration for health insurance, applicable to all residents, must be completed.
4. Obtain a German residence permit: Application for a residence permit should be made at the Immigration/Foreigner’s Office (Ausländerbehörde).
5. Commence work: With your residence permit, you are authorized to begin working. In five years, you may become eligible for permanent residency in Germany.

For expert legal guidance on relocating to Germany, consider consulting a German legal representative such as SE Legal

Germany offers numerous advantages and some challenges:

If you're a non-EU national, living in Germany for more than three months typically requires you to have a purpose, such as work or study. However, there is an option for non-EU nationals seeking employment in Germany:

Job-Seeker Visa: You can apply for a job-seeker visa, allowing you to stay in Germany for up to six months as you search for employment. This visa permits you to look for a job and attend interviews. To obtain a job-seeker visa, you must meet specific requirements and demonstrate your ability to support yourself financially during your job search. Legal experts at Schlun & Elseven Rechtsanwälte can guide you through this process.

It's crucial to comply with German immigration regulations. If you stay in Germany for more than three months without the appropriate visa, you risk deportation, which can impact future immigration prospects and result in fines or legal consequences.
The only exception for moving to Germany without work or job-seeking intentions is if you are married to a German citizen or permanent resident who has the financial means to support you as a dependent.

Moving to Germany involves various expenses, which can amount to well over €3,000 (or $3,400). Key costs to consider include:

1. Work Visa: €75
2. Residence Permit: €50 - €110
3. Travel Health Insurance: €30 - €90 (to cover the first three months)
4. One-Way Plane Ticket: €200 - €600
5. First Three Months' Rent and Deposit: €1,500 - €5,000 (varies based on location)
6. Cost of Living for the First Month: €1,000 (approximately $1,300)

Additionally, remember to account for the costs associated with moving your personal belongings, including furniture. You can explore cost-effective moving solutions by seeking quotes from reputable moving companies through services like Sirelo. They provide free quotes and reviews to help you plan your move to Germany cost-effectively.

Before making the big move to Germany, there are several essential things to keep in mind:

1. Access to Public Health Insurance: Germany has a universal healthcare system. Around 90% of the population is covered by public (statutory) health insurance, which offers free medical treatment in public hospitals. Monthly contributions for this insurance are deducted from your income.
2. Decide on Personal Belongings: Moving to a new country can be a complex task, especially when it comes to relocating your personal belongings. Some expats opt to sell most of their possessions, while others store them and bring them over once they've settled in Germany. To facilitate this process, you can use services like Sirelo, which provide quotes from reputable moving companies to help you relocate efficiently and affordably.
3. Learn Basic German: While it's possible to find English-speaking job opportunities in Germany, learning German can significantly enhance your integration experience. Understanding the language will make tasks like processing residence permit applications, dealing with health insurance, and interacting with locals much smoother.
4. Quiet Times: Germany has legally regulated "quiet times." This means that from 10 PM to 6 AM daily and all day on Sundays and public holidays, you are not allowed to create loud disturbances, including loud music, vacuuming, or house repairs. Some apartment buildings may even have additional quiet hours, typically from 1 PM to 3 PM.
5. Comprehensive Insurance: Germans value various types of insurance. In addition to health insurance, many Germans also have liability insurance (covering damages caused to others), legal insurance (for legal disputes), and even pet liability insurance, among others.
6. Adherence to Rules: Germans are renowned for their adherence to rules and regulations. Therefore, it's essential to respect rules in various contexts, including following lines at stores, adhering to recycling guidelines, obeying traffic rules, observing quiet times, and paying attention to all posted signs. Violating these rules may lead to disapproving looks or even confrontations.