Discovering Germany

Registrations Visas

All non-EU citizens (except citizens from Australia, Canada, Israel, Japan, New Zealand, South Korea, and the U.S.) who want to live and work in Germany have to apply for a visa at least three to four months prior to their arrival in Germany. The application should be done at the German Consulate General nearest to their current, home country residence. Each accompanying family member also needs to obtain a visa. The visa application must clearly state that the applicant intends to work in Germany (this does not apply to accompanying family members). In case of failure to mention this fact, a business or tourist visa will be issued and the applicant will not be permitted to be employed in Germany.

The applicant usually needs the following documents to apply for a visa: + A valid passport + At least two, recent biometric passport photos

+ Possibly his/her work contract (translated in German) of the company in Germany + Further documents, like marriage/birth certificates or a health insurance confirmation

In addition, applicants have to submit a letter issued by his/her company which states name, date of birth, nationality, medical insurance, length of work contract, position, salary, and a detailed job-description. The application form for this visa (called an “Application for Residence Permit”) can be downloaded from the German embassy’s website. Requirements may change, therefore it is recommended to contact the Embassy/Consulate beforehand and clarify the individual application. It facilitates the embassy’s work when all documents are handed in at the same time. A visa application procedure can take up to three months. It is possible that further authorities are involved in individual cases. In this case, the above mentioned procedure can be delayed by several weeks. New Residence Registration ( Anmeldung am Wohnort ) Every person in Germany, whether German or a foreigner, has to be registered at his/her place of residence. This needs to be done within seven days of moving to Germany or within Germany. Applicants should go to the relevant registration office in their district with the following documents: + Completed and signed registration form (available from the residence registration office ( Einwohnermeldeamt ) + Passport(s) – photocopies will not be accepted, including visa (if applicable) + Sometimes rental contract or hotel confirmation + A written confirmation from the landlord

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Discovering Germany