Why Germany?
Europe's economic engine offers unmatched career opportunities and quality of life.
Economic powerhouse
Europe's largest economy with world-class industries in automotive, tech, engineering, and manufacturing.
Career opportunities
Skilled worker shortage means high demand for qualified professionals, especially in IT, healthcare, and engineering.
Strong social benefits
Comprehensive healthcare, generous parental leave, unemployment protection, and excellent public services.
Central location
Heart of Europe with easy access to neighboring countries. Efficient trains, airports, and infrastructure.
Find your visa path
Germany offers several visa options for skilled workers. Select a visa type to learn more.
The German bureaucracy challenge
German efficiency is famous—but so is its complex bureaucracy. Here's what expats struggle with most.
Anmeldung (Address registration)
You must register your address within 14 days of arrival—but you need a rental contract first.
German bureaucracy
Many offices operate only in German. Forms, appointments, and officials often require language skills.
Aufenthaltstitel process
Residence permit applications involve multiple documents, appointments, and weeks of waiting.
Blocked bank account
Students and some visa types require a blocked account (Sperrkonto) with proof of funds.
Housing crisis
Finding apartments in major cities is extremely competitive, especially in Berlin and Munich.
Health insurance requirements
Mandatory health insurance with specific requirements depending on your employment status.
Where will you land?
Hover over a city to explore job markets and living costs.
Berlin
Startup hub, creative scene
Munich
Corporate, high quality of life
Frankfurt
Finance center, international
Hamburg
Maritime, media industry
How Expath helps
We've mastered German bureaucracy so you don't have to.
Personalized Guidance
We analyze your background—qualifications, profession, family status—and determine the optimal visa path. Your roadmap is built around German requirements, timelines, and your specific situation.
- Visa type recommendation
- Personalized timeline
- Step-by-step instructions
Document Support
German authorities are notoriously strict about documentation. We guide you through translations (beglaubigte Ăśbersetzung), apostilles, and the exact format each office requires.
- Document checklists
- Translation guidance
- Format requirements
Post-Arrival Support
Anmeldung, Aufenthaltstitel, tax ID, health insurance, bank account—we guide you through each registration and help you navigate the Ausländerbehörde.
- Anmeldung guidance
- Permit renewals
- Tax registration
Who this is for
If you identify with any of these, Expath is built for you.
Your move in 6 steps
Click on any step to see more details about that phase.
Eligibility assessment
We evaluate your qualifications, work experience, and determine the best visa category for your situation.
Personalized roadmap
Receive your tailored plan with German-specific requirements, timelines, and document checklists.
Document preparation
Gather, translate, and apostille all required documents. We guide you on beglaubigte Ăśbersetzungen.
Visa application
Submit your application at the German embassy. We help prepare you for the interview.
Arrival & registration
Anmeldung, bank account, health insurance, and Ausländerbehörde appointment for your Aufenthaltstitel.
Ongoing compliance
Tax ID (Steuer-ID), social security, permit renewals, and long-term settlement preparation.
Frequently asked questions
Quick answers to common questions about relocating to Germany.