Europe

Last updated: 12 July 2024

Moving to Germany from the USA

Table of Contents

If you want to move to Europe, Germany could be a great option, even if beer and Schnitzel aren’t your only interests. More than 122,000 Americans call Germany home.

Germany may be the perfect choice for you, too, if you’re:

an investor looking for a safe market,
a business owner looking to expand into Europe or,
a freelancer looking for a great blend of history and modern life.

Here, we will explain everything you need to know about moving to Germany from the USA, from visas to finding the right city for you. Forget the stereotypes and discover the real Germany.

Requirements of Moving to Germany from the USA

So, you’ve set your sights on Germany? Fantastic! But before you pack your bags and book your flight, there are a few things you’ll need to sort out.

Don’t worry. We are here to explain the key requirements for moving from the USA to Germany and help you manage the process smoothly.

Requirements may vary depending on your purpose (work, study, etc.). So, we’ll cover general steps now and detail specific visa types later.

Here’s a basic checklist to get you started:

Have a valid passport for at least six months beyond your planned stay in Germany.
Have a visa or residence permit to live and work in Germany for over 90 days.
Have German health insurance and show proof before registering.
Proof you can support yourself, like bank statements or employment proof.
Report your German address with the rental agreement, etc.

Ways to Move to Germany from the USA

If you are interested in moving to Germany from the U.S., there are several options. Whether you apply from the US or after arriving, here are some paths to consider:

Applying from the USA

Work Visa: If you have a job in Germany, your German employer usually handles most of the application process for you. Skilled workers can also apply for visas like the EU Blue Card.
Job Seeker Visa: Apply for a Job Seeker Visa if you’re job hunting. It lets you stay in Germany for up to six months to attend interviews and apply for positions.
Study Visa: For those aiming to further their education, a Study Visa facilitates enrollment in a German university or language program.

Applying after Arriving in Germany

Language Course Visa: Consider this visa if you want to learn German before working. It lets you stay in Germany for language courses before applying for a work visa or residence permit.
Freelancer or Self-Employed Permit: If you’re a freelancer, entrepreneur, or plan to run your own business in Germany, you’ll need a specific permit for this purpose.

Additional Considerations

Family Reunification: You may qualify for this visa if you have a close family member who is a German citizen or permanent resident.
Retirement Visa: To retire in Germany, meeting income and health insurance requirements is necessary.

At the end of the day, it’s always best to consult with the German embassy or consulate in the U.S. or the local immigration office in Germany. This is important to determine the most suitable visa option for your situation.

Types of Residence Permits for US Citizens

Once you’ve chosen your path to Germany (see previous section), you’ll need the right permit to stay there legally.

Standard Residence Permit

This is the most common permit for people moving to Germany for work, study, or family reunification. The specific type of Standard Permit will depend on your reason for relocating to Germany from the USA.

EU Blue Card

This special permit is designed to attract highly skilled workers to Germany. Compared to the standard permit, it offers faster processing times and easier access to permanent residency.

To qualify, you’ll need a job offer in Germany and relevant qualifications in a field on the German in-demand list.

Settlement Permit (Niederlassungserlaubnis)

This permit, also known as permanent residency, allows you to live and work in Germany for an unlimited period. After holding a temporary residence permit for a certain time (usually eight years), you can apply for the Settlement Permit.

Job Seeker’s Permit

This temporary permit enables you to stay in Germany for up to six months while you actively search for a job. It’s a good option if you don’t have a secured position yet but want to be in Germany for job interviews and applications.

Freelancer and Self-Employed Permits

If you plan to be your own boss in Germany, you’ll need a specific permit for freelancers or self-employed individuals. This permit typically requires you to demonstrate a viable business plan and sufficient financial resources.

Family Reunion Permit

This permit allows close family members (spouse, children, parents) of German citizens or permanent residents to live in Germany.

Student Permit

This permit is necessary if you’re enrolled in a German university or language program. The duration of the permit will depend on the length of your studies.

Settlement Permit or Permanent Residence

Permanent residence, namely The Settlement Permit, opens a whole new level of freedom in Germany.

Benefits of Permanent Residence

Lets you stay in Germany indefinitely, removing the worry of visa renewals.
You can travel freely within the Schengen Area without additional visas.
You’re no longer restricted to specific jobs or employers tied to your visa. You can freely pursue any career path in Germany.
You may be eligible to sponsor close family members to join you in Germany.

Requirements for Permanent Residence

Hold a temporary residence permit for about five years, or around two years with a German degree or EU Blue Card qualification, before applying for permanent residence.
Demonstrate that you have a stable income source sufficient to support yourself in Germany.
Have a clean criminal report.
Have at least basic German language proficiency.

Is Permanent Residence Right for You?

If you see yourself living and building a long-term future in Germany, getting a permanent residence is the right goal. It provides increased stability, freedom, and access to additional opportunities within the country.

Getting a German Citizenship

Obtaining German citizenship opens doors to the rights and benefits of being a German citizen.

Requirements for German Citizenship

You have lived in Germany legally for at least eight years with a permanent residence permit. This timeframe can be shortened in certain cases. A residence permit for educational purposes is not sufficient.
You demonstrate German language proficiency by passing a language test.
You prove that you can financially support yourself without relying on state benefits.
You’ve integrated into German society.
You accept the Basic Law (Grundgesetz) of the Federal Republic of Germany.
You give up your previous nationality. However, there are exceptions to this rule for certain countries.
You pass a naturalization test assessing your German law, history, and society knowledge.

The Process of Obtaining German Citizenship

Application: Submit your application to the local immigration office once you meet the requirements.
Documentation: Gather various documents for the application process.
Interview: Attend an interview to discuss your application and your understanding of Germany.
Decision & Ceremony: Authorities review your application; if successful, you’ll be invited to a citizenship ceremony.

Benefits of moving from the U.S.A. to Germany

Germany offers more than fairytale castles and delicious food. It has a high quality of life that attracts expats from all over the globe.

Healthcare

Germany’s renowned healthcare system offers peace of mind with its dual public and private options:

Public Health Insurance: This system provides comprehensive medical coverage for a very reasonable cost. Most expats qualify for this program, which covers doctor visits, hospital stays, medications, and preventive care.
Private Health Insurance: While public insurance covers a lot, some expats choose to supplement it with private plans. These can offer extras like private hospital rooms, faster access to specialists, and coverage for alternative therapies.

Here’s the good news: Quality care is readily available regardless of the system you choose. Germany has well-equipped hospitals, highly qualified doctors, and a strong focus on preventative medicine.

Employment

Germany has a growing need for skilled professionals in various sectors, like engineering, IT, and healthcare.
German work culture emphasizes a healthy work-life balance. You can expect fair wages, paid vacation time, and strong worker protections.
Germany has a robust social safety net that provides unemployment benefits and other forms of support, offering financial security during challenging times.

Finding a job can involve tailoring your resume and cover letter to German standards. Many companies post jobs on online platforms, and professional networking can be crucial.

Learning German can significantly improve your job prospects, but English is widely spoken in many businesses.

Cost of Living

Affordability is a major concern for many. Here is some information that will give you peace of mind discovering the costs of living in Germany:

Housing

Renting an apartment in Germany can be more affordable than in major U.S. cities. However, costs can vary depending on location and size. Utilities are typically a separate expense.

Food

Groceries are generally less expensive than in the U.S., and the focus is on fresh, seasonal produce. Dining out can be reasonable.

Transportation

Public transportation is very affordable and efficient, allowing you to save money on a car.

Leisure Activities

Germany offers a wealth of cultural experiences and leisure activities at reasonable prices. Museums, parks, and outdoor adventures are all available.

Tips for Budgeting: While Germany is generally affordable, consider opening a German bank account for better financial management. Research average costs in your city of choice to budget wisely.

Transportation

Germany offers reliable and punctual transportation via trains, buses, trams, and subways that connect cities, towns, and rural areas. It’s affordable and convenient for both short trips and regular commutes.

For drivers, Germany has well-maintained highways, but owning a car requires a German driver’s license.

Overall, Germany’s public transport system is accessible and budget-friendly, providing easy mobility without the need for a car.

Conclusion

Germany welcomes you with its friendly atmosphere, strong economy, and great quality of life, making it ideal for your next adventure. This guide has prepared you to manage the move from the US to Germany.

This guide serves as a starting point, and we recommend ongoing research to stay informed about the latest rules and guidelines.

“Viel Glück” on your exciting journey to Germany!

Frequently Asked Questions

What costs should I expect to pay when moving from the U.S. to Germany?

The cost of moving to Germany from the USA will vary, but consider these expenses:

visa fees (The fee for naturalization is €255)
travel costs
housing deposit (usually one or two months' rent), and
cost of living (rent, food, utilities)

Moving to Germany from the USA with your family will change expenses.

Can a U.S. citizen live in Germany?

Yes, U.S. citizens can live in Germany with the proper visa or German residence permit. Depending on your reason for moving, various options are available.