The most important facts summarized
- Visa and residence permit differ from each other (visa = 90 days, e.g. for traveling; residence permit extends the stay further, e.g. long-term living and working in GER)
- Visa application process and requirements vary depending on your nationality and the German embassy or consulate where you apply
- With your first residence permit, you will receive a temporary permit that has an expiration date and which you can extend before it expires
How to get your visa and residence permit
If you’re relocating to Germany from outside the EU, there’s an essential document you’ll need—the residence permit, or Aufenthaltstitel. This permit grants you legal residency in Germany for a longer duration than a temporary travel visa.
Whether your plans involve working, freelancing, studying, or other pursuits in Germany, this video will guide you through the residence permit application process, step by step.
Step 1: Understand Visa vs. Residence Permit
Before diving into the application process, let’s clarify the difference between a visa and a residence permit.
While a visa allows you to enter Germany and stay for up to 90 days for travel, business, or study;
a residence permit extends your stay for a longer period.
Step 2: Visa Application
Depending on your nationality you will need to apply for a Visa before coming to Germany. Only upon your arrival will you be able to apply for the German residence permit.
Understanding Visa Application:
Thus, Let’s look first at how to apply for a Visa (This is what a visa application looks like).
Firstly, check which Visa corresponds to the purpose of your stay in Germany, whether it is for studying, working, or travelling. Take a look at the “Types of visa” section for more information.
Then, check the requirements for the visa application. This list can usually be found on the website of the German embassy or consulate in your country of residence.
Regardless of the visa type, you’ll typically need the following essential documents:
- Valid Passport
- Biometric Passport Photos
- Proof of Employment or Job Offer (if applicable)
- Proof of Qualification (such as university degree or
- professional certifications)
- Health Insurance Confirmation
- Financial Stability Proof (such as bank statements or proof of income)
- Clean Criminal Record
- Visa Application Form
- Additional Documents (varies based on visa type)
After gathering all the necessary documents you may schedule an appointment at the German embassy or consulate in your country of residence to submit your visa application.
During this appointment, you will need to present the required documents and pay the non-refundable fee of €75, which is charged for all types of visas issued for long-term stays in Germany.
As soon as your visa is ready, you may start preparing to come to Germany. Given that you are planning to stay long-term, you may want to bring all your personal documents, including birth certificates, educational qualifications, professional credentials, and relevant certificates.
Keep in mind that the visa application process and requirements may vary depending on your nationality and the German embassy or consulate where you apply.
Step 3: Residence Permit Application
Once you arrive in Germany, you can apply for a residence permit to extend your stay.
One again, you must start by Identifying the type of residence permit you need based on your intended activities in Germany. This could include employment, freelancing, studying, or other purposes.
For the Residence Permit you will typically need the following essential documents:
- Your national valid passport
- Application form for a Residence Permit.
- Two current biometrical passport photos
- Report of a clean criminal record. Here
- Health Insurance Confirmation.
- Proof of Job Offer.
- Additional Documents (varies based on Residence Permit type)
For Employment: Proof of income, employment contract, proof of health insurance, proof of residence, completed application forms, and application fee.
For Freelancers/Artists: Curriculum Vitae, financing plan, revenue forecast, proof of health insurance, proof of residence, completed application forms, and application fee.
For Self-Employed Individuals: Additional documents such as a company profile, capital requirement plan, business concept, and business plan may be required.
Then, send an email or head to the Foreigners’ Office (Ausländerbehörde) and submit your complete application along with all required documents. Be prepared for an interview if necessary.
After submitting your application, the Foreigners’ Office will review your case. Processing times may vary, but once approved, you’ll receive an appointment to collect your residence permit. If it’s your first time, you’ll receive an Aufenthaltserlaubnis, a limited permit that has an expiry date, which you can renew before it expires.
Required Documents for Visa Application
Required Documents for Residence Permit Application
Summary
Getting a German residence permit is an important milestone on your relocation journey. If you follow these steps and have all the necessary documents ready, you will master the process without any problems.
Hopefully it was helpful for you.
Welcome to Germany and enjoy your new adventure!
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The most important questions
Who needs to apply for a visa for Germany?
Citizens of countries outside the EU, the EEA and Switzerland must apply for a visa if they wish to stay in Germany for longer than 90 days or intend to work, study or become self-employed in Germany. Citizens of some countries also require a visa for short stays.
What documents do I need for a visa application for Germany?
The required documents vary depending on the visa type, but generally include
- Valid passport
- Biometric passport photos
- Visa application form
- Proof of financial means
- Proof of health insurance
- Proof of accommodation
- Police clearance certificate
- Additional documents depending on visa type (e.g. employment contract, admission to studies)
You can find a detailed overview further up in this article.
How long does it take to process a visa application for Germany?
The processing time of a visa application can vary depending on the visa type and individual situation. It generally takes between 4 and 12 weeks. It is advisable to submit the application as early as possible to avoid delays.
Can I extend my residence permit in Germany?
Yes, you can extend your residence permit. You must submit the extension application to the local immigration office before your current residence permit expires. You will need similar documents to those required for the initial application and possibly additional proof that the reason for your stay still exists (e.g. employment contract, proof of studies).
