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Blick von unten zur Glasfassade des Bürgerbüros mit dem Schild "Rathaus"

Right of residence for nationals of EU member states and Switzerland

All nationals of EU member states do not require a visa to enter Germany. Unrestricted freedom of travel applies here. Nationals of EU countries require a recognized, valid passport or passport substitute (identity card) to enter and stay in Germany. They do not require a visa or residence permit. There is an unrestricted right of residence for the first three months after entry. After that, a so-called freedom of movement requirement must be fulfilled. The same applies to family members of EU citizens.

EU citizens and their family members who meet the requirements for freedom of movement have the right to enter and reside in the country.

Family members who are not EU citizens (= third-country nationals) are issued with a residence card certifying their right of residence.

Swiss nationals entitled to freedom of movement and their family members receive a corresponding residence permit.

  • Employees through the current payslip
  • Self-employed persons by means of business registration and proof of health insurance
  • Non-employed persons by means of proof of livelihood and proof of health insurance
  • valid national passport or identity card
  • the last three payslips or, in the case of self-employed persons, a profit statement from a tax consultant
  • Employment contract or, in the case of self-employed persons, business registration
  • Proof of sufficient means of subsistence for non-employed persons
  • Tenancy agreement or, in the case of owner-occupied homes, an extract from the land register or the purchase contract
  • Proof of health insurance cover
  • School certificate for school-age children
  • Proof of studies for students