Tourist Visa (Schengen Visa - Type C): Allows stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period in Germany and the Schengen Area.
Temporary Residence Permit: Typically valid for 1 to 4 years, renewable, issued for work, study, business, or family reunification.
Permanent Residence Permit (Settlement Permit): Grants indefinite stay, but renewal is required every 5 to 10 years for administrative purposes.
Visa cost
Tourist Visa (Schengen Visa): Approximately $87 (€80).
Temporary Residence Permit: Around $108 to $216 (€100 to €200), depending on the type.
Permanent Residence Permit: Typically costs $141 to $271 (€135 to €250), depending on the applicant’s status.
Visa extension
Tourist Visa: Generally not extendable, except in special cases (e.g., emergencies).
Temporary Residence Permit: Yes, can be extended depending on the reason for stay.
Permanent Residence Permit: Not applicable; it grants indefinite stay but must be renewed every 5 to 10 years.
Visa processing time
Tourist Visa: Usually processed within 15 days, but can take up to 45 days.
Temporary Residence Permit: Processing time ranges from 4 to 12 weeks.
Permanent Residence Permit: Can take 3 to 6 months for approval.
Who can apply?
Tourist Visa: Citizens of countries outside the EU/Schengen Area that require a visa for short stays.
Temporary Residence Permit: Students, employees, freelancers, researchers, family members of German residents, and investors.
Permanent Residence Permit: Individuals who have legally lived in Germany for 5 years (or 33 months for Blue Card holders with sufficient German language proficiency).
Where to apply?
Visa applications are submitted at German embassies or consulates abroad, while residence permits are handled by the local Foreigners’ Office (Ausländerbehörde) in Germany.
How to apply:
Determine Visa Type: Choose between a Tourist Visa, Temporary Residence Permit, or Permanent Residence Permit.
Gather Required Documents:
Tourist Visa: Passport, travel itinerary, accommodation proof, proof of financial means (€45 per day), and travel insurance.
Temporary Residence Permit: Employment contract, study admission letter, business registration, or family sponsorship proof.
Permanent Residence Permit: Proof of continuous residence, stable income, and integration into German society.
Submit Application: Apply at the German consulate or at the local Foreigners’ Office in Germany.
Pay the Visa Fee: Fees vary based on visa type and processing time.
Attend an Interview (if required): Some applicants may need additional screening.
Await Processing: Processing times depend on the visa category.
Minimum income requirements
Tourist Visa: No specific income requirement, but travelers must prove access to $49 per day (€45).
Temporary Residence Permit:
Work Visa: Must earn at least $2,376 per month (€2,220), depending on the profession.
Freelancer Visa: Requires proof of at least $11,890 per year (€11,208).
Student Visa: Must show financial proof of $11,060 per year (€10,332) in a blocked bank account.
Permanent Residence Permit: Requires stable income and proof of financial self-sufficiency.
Popular cities
Berlin: The capital, known for its history and startup culture.
Munich: A financial and technological hub with a high quality of life.
Hamburg: A major port city with a vibrant economy.
Frankfurt: Germany’s financial center and home to the European Central Bank.
Cologne: Known for its cultural scene and major industries.
Minimum income requirements
Official Language: German.
Other Languages: English is widely spoken, especially in business and tourist areas.
Average internet speeds
Fixed Broadband: Average download speed of approximately 120 Mbps.
Mobile Internet: Average download speed of around 65 Mbps.
