How To Apply for a German Residency visa

Last week I had my appointment at the Foreigner’s Office to apply for my German Residence visa and I received it! Wooo! Up until this point I have been in Germany on a Traveler’s visa. With a Traveler’s visa, you are permitted 90 days in the country (or many different countries as it is a travel visa) but after the 90 days is up, you must leave the Schengen Area for 180 days.

I was extremely nervous because there is so much that goes into receiving a visa in a different country. I truly had no idea what is all taken into consideration because prior to moving I didn't have much time to do my research. It was kinda all hands-on deck, we’re moving across the world in about a month or so. I am so, very thankful for all the help that I have received along the way. Rob’s company has assisted us throughout the entire process of moving abroad and has made all of this possible. As I have recently joined Facebook communities with other expats, I know that there are others who have different situations. Some are not able to have a company support their move, or maybe they’re applying for a visa on their own. Regardless of the situation, I know it can be very confusing at times especially when there is a language barrier.

I have compiled a list of items that are taken into consideration when applying for a residence visa in Germany - to help one of you who may be considering moving abroad or just to enlighten those of you who may be curious.

1. 1. You need your own reason for living in Germany, (spouse, job, job seeking, school, sponsorship, intensive language courses, etc.) - I have my Bachelor’s degree from the states and knew I would only be living abroad for a year or so, therefore I didn’t want to begin additional schooling like a Master’s program for example, if I wouldn’t be able to finish it here. I also knew I did NOT want any additional school debt so that kind of eliminated receiving higher education. Although I must note that schooling here is much more affordable than back in the US. As far as applying for a work visa, because I do not know the language it would be difficult to get a job. I decided that taking Intensive German language courses would be the best option for my situation. I registered for four months of classes at a local private agency that provides “Intensive Language Courses” - be sure to do your research on this. Although you may find many options for language courses, the institute must be recognized by the German foreigner’s office. 
2. 2. Confirmation of whichever route you are choosing - For example, I was required to bring confirmation of a booked language course. The institute will most likely know which documents you will need to present if you explain that you're applying for your visa. 
3. 3. Bring your passport and a biometric photo - I would get this done at Walgreens or somewhere that takes passport photos. This photo will the photo on your visa card.
4. 4. Health insurance is a requirement - I ran into an issue during the application for my visa because I did not have a German health insurance but instead a Global health insurance. It ended up working out but there was definitely hesitation when I provided my health insurance card. I’m not sure what the issue was because Rob’s German company provides our health insurance, but regardless, be sure to research German health insurance providers. 
5. 5. Registration form from the town hall - When we initially arrived to Germany we had an appointment to register where we would be living. Essentially this is so Germany know who is living in what neighborhood. We were living in a hotel for a month, so that’s where we registered. We now have to go back and register with our new flat address. 
6. 6. Service fee - I presume this will vary per city. My fee in Düsseldorf was 110,00 € for the residence fee and 30,00 € for the statement of commitment. 

There are a few other factors that go into applying for your visa, like what city, proof of income, and statement of commitment paperwork, etc. I hope this gives you some insight as to what goes into receiving a visa in another country and in Germany specifically. I must note these recommendations are from my own experience and my visa is temporary. My visa will expire in a year from when I moved here, so November 2019. I would have to reapply around the summertime if I wish to extend my visa. If you have any questions, send me a message or comment below! I’d love to be a resource for you, wanderlusts!