European citizens do not need either residence or work permits in Germany. Exceptions are the so called eastern European countries: Poland, Romania, Bulgaria, Estonia, Lithuania. Students from these countries must apply for a work permit at the employment office, but this is merely a formality.

 

Citizens of the following countries do not need a visa but must apply for a residence permit: Switzerland, USA, Canada, Japan, Australia, New Zeeland, Korea, Israel.

People from countries other than those mentioned above need to get a visa before entering into Germany. The degree of difficulty to obtain a visa varies from country to country.  In most cases one needs to reckon with 6 - 8 weeks from application to receiving the visa. In the first instance a limited residence permit of 3 months is given for Germany and the European Union, which can be extended on arrival for a further nine months. If necessary it can be extended for a further year. In addition there is an annual work permit for 90 full (8 hours per day), or 180 half days (4 hours per day) The residence permit costs 50 Euro and an extension a further 50 Euro.

 

 

If you have any further questions or difficulties please contact our office under: Contact