Germany offers diverse pathways for individuals and families looking to relocate. Whether you’re a citizen of the European Union, European Economic Area (EEA), Switzerland, or a non-EU national, understanding the necessary steps, requirements, and regulations can ensure a smooth transition. Jaberi Lawyers, your trusted partner in immigration services, is here to break down the essentials for you.
Moving to Germany from the EU/EEA/Switzerland
If you’re from the EU, EEA, or Switzerland, moving to Germany is a streamlined process. There’s no need for a visa, as the European Union’s freedom of movement allows entry into Germany with only a valid passport or identity card for stays up to three months. For longer stays, certain conditions apply:
- Longer Stays Beyond Three Months: If you plan to work, look for employment, run a business, or pursue studies in Germany, you can stay beyond the initial three-month period. However, it is essential to register your residence with local authorities if your stay exceeds this duration.
- Non-Working Individuals: Those who are not engaged in employment or studies need to demonstrate financial stability and possess valid health insurance.
Path to Permanent Residency: EU, EEA, and Swiss nationals can apply for German permanent residency after five years of continuous residence. Family members, even those from outside these regions, can join you. This includes spouses, civil partners, and children under 21, while older children, parents, or grandparents can also join if you provide financial support.
Jaberi Lawyers assists EU nationals and their families with any queries related to residency and family reunification, ensuring you meet all requirements for a successful relocation.
Moving to Germany for Non-EU/EEA/Switzerland Nationals
For non-EU citizens, relocation to Germany involves obtaining a residence permit, tailored to your purpose of stay, which can include work, studies, or other personal reasons.
- Step 1: Entry Visa Application
Start by applying for an entry visa at a German diplomatic mission in your home country. The visa grants entry into Germany for a duration ranging from three months to one year, depending on the purpose of your stay. - Step 2: Residence Permit Application
If you wish to extend your stay beyond the visa period, you’ll need to apply for a residence permit before your visa expires. Jaberi Lawyers provides guidance on the best residence permit options based on your purpose, be it employment, studies, or entrepreneurship.
Bringing Family Members: For those on an eligible residence permit, it is often possible to bring family members to join you in Germany. A Family Reunification visa is required, which can be obtained through a German diplomatic mission.
EU Residence Permit Holders: Non-EU nationals who already have a residence permit from an EU member state may be eligible to migrate to Germany without needing a visa. Jaberi Lawyers will assess your individual case to ensure compliance with current regulations and assist with family reunification procedures.
Special Pathways for Jewish Immigrants
Germany provides a unique admission procedure for Jewish individuals from former Soviet Union countries, recognizing the historical significance and welcoming Jewish immigrants under specific conditions.
Eligibility Requirements for Jewish Immigrants:
- Nationality or Stateless Residency in the Former Soviet Union: Applicants must hold citizenship from one of the successor states of the former Soviet Union (excluding Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania) or have resided there as a stateless person since January 1, 2005.
- Jewish Heritage: Candidates must be of Jewish nationality, have at least one Jewish parent or grandparent, and exclusively follow Judaism.
- German Language Proficiency: A minimum A1 level of German under the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) is required.
- Financial Independence: Applicants must demonstrate the ability to support themselves financially as assessed by Germany’s Federal Office for Migration and Refugees.
- Acceptance into a German Jewish Community: Prospective immigrants must provide evidence of acceptance into a German Jewish community. Jaberi Lawyers can liaise with the German Central Jewish Welfare Federation (ZWST) to support this requirement.
Exclusions: Certain conditions disqualify individuals from this immigration pathway, including prior emigration to other countries like the USA or Israel, affiliation with criminal or terrorist groups, or significant involvement in the Soviet regime. Victims of National Socialist persecution born in the former Soviet Union before January 1, 1945, are exempt from language proficiency and integration requirements.
Start Your Journey with Jaberi Lawyers
Moving to Germany, whether from the EU or beyond, is a life-changing experience. Jaberi Lawyers is committed to making this transition as seamless as possible by offering comprehensive guidance on residence permits, family reunification, and specialized pathways like those for Jewish immigrants. Our team provides tailored legal support to help you navigate Germany’s immigration laws and ensure compliance with every requirement.
Contact Jaberi Lawyers today to begin your journey:
Website: www.jaberilawyers.com
Phone: +49 (0)40 413 499 87
Jaberi Lawyers — Where Immigration Meets Expertise.
