Germany is located in the northern hemisphere, in Central and Western Europe, with a population of about 83 million inhabitants, 16 federal states and a history of about 2,000 years. It is the second-most populous country in Europe after Russia and the most populous member of the European Union. Germany’s dynamic and powerful economy and exemplary development are well-known, as it has Europe’s top economy and the world’s fourth-largest economy (based on GDP), while being the third-largest importer and exporter country in the world.
Immigrating to Germany is generally possible in several ways, each with its own circumstances and benefits. Migration through work, study, investment, marriage, birth, asylum are among the main methods of immigration to Germany.
General conditions for immigration to Germany
You should be aware that the general requirements for immigration to Germany include proof of financial support for immigration fees, health insurance, and also a certificate of fluency in the German language. Also, the age condition varies according to the method of action. For example, for study immigration, you usually have the opportunity to immigrate to continue your education at the next level for a maximum of four to five years after graduation. As for immigration through work, the maximum age of 40 years is acceptable, and for immigration by marriage, you should be at least 18 years old. There is not a certain age limit for immigration through investment in Germany.
Qualified professional as newcomer in Germany
To immigrate through work, you can apply for jobseeker’s visa or for a visa due to a job offer and, if you meet the requirements (depending on age, education, work experience, etc.), you can easily obtain a work visa. You must also prove financial support for yourself equivalent to 9,000 euros. For more information, see our article Qualified professional as newcomer in Germany.
Study in Germany
With the most advanced education system and the top academic centers in the world, Germany is always an ideal choice for your academic migration. The Bachelor’s degree in Germany it usually takes four years and you must obtain a B1 (or IELTS score of 6 at least) language level to be admitted for studying here. The Master’s degree is usually for two years and, as an admission criteria, you must submit a B2 (or IELTS 6.5 at least) certified language level. In order to be accepted for a doctorate in Germany, it is necessary to have a strong resume and to find admission through approval by a supervisor in this country.
Migration through investment and company registration
In order to immigrate in this way, you must register a company by providing a strong business plan. The initial capital you need is about 25,000 euros, and you also have to cover the related additional costs. In this way, you will receive a temporary visa for yourself and your family members, you will receive a permanent residence permit only after 3 years for you and after 5 years for other members of your family. In general, investing in Germany is possible through the establishment of a business (store, etc.), a civil company, General partnership, a limited liability company, general commercial partnership, establishment of a branch or a representative office in Germany.
Migration through marriage
This method is very easy! Marrying a German or a person living in Germany will allow you to immigrate to Germany. Of course, it is necessary to provide the embassy with a number of documents, including family photos, emails, marriage certificates, celibacy certificates, and a certificate of no criminal record in order to obtain citizenship. A German resident must also prove financial support for his or her spouse in Germany. In this way, after at least three years of living together in Germany, it is possible for a foreign spouse to obtain a passport.
Asylum in Germany
This is one of the riskiest ways to immigrate to Germany. You may apply for asylum under the Geneva Convention. The possibility of getting rejected an asylum application is very high and, living a normal life, without having special conditions for applying for asylum will prevent your access to this procedure. If you qualify to apply for asylum in Germany, you will be granted a three-year residence permit, and after three to five years, you will be able to obtain a passport.
Residence permit by birth in Germany
In Germany, citizenship is determined by birth based on the Jus sanguinis (“right of blood”), but under certain conditions, Jus soli (“right of soil”) is also taken into account. Under German law, a child born to a German mother or father acquires German citizenship.