Our experienced immigration lawyers specialize in facilitating smooth transitions for individuals looking to immigrate to Germany from New Zealand. From navigating complex visa procedures to providing expert guidance on residency permits and employment opportunities, our team ensures that your journey is as seamless as possible.
Our German immigration lawyers offer personalized assistance tailored to your unique circumstances, helping you overcome any legal hurdles and streamline the relocation process.
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Types of German visas
If you are interested in moving to Germany from New Zealand, please find the information about visa types below:
Short-stay visas (Schengen type C)
Short-stay visas permit visits to Germany for up to 90 days within 180 days. Entry requires a valid purpose, sufficient funds for the trip, and comprehensive health insurance coverage. Citizens of New Zealand can travel to Germany without needing a visa and can apply for the required permit upon arrival at the local immigration office.
Long-stay visas (type D National visas)
German long-stay visas are intended for stays exceeding 90 days. Individuals requiring a visa must obtain it along with a residence permit before arrival. Otherwise, the application can be made either before arrival or upon reaching Germany. If you are planning to relocate to Germany from New Zealand, these are the following types of long-stay visas:
- Work visas: For individuals seeking employment opportunities in Germany.
- Student visas: Designed for students planning to pursue education in Germany.
- Visas for family reunion: Facilitates reunification with family members residing in Germany.
If you need detailed information and practical assistance for immigrating to Germany from New Zealand, our lawyers can assist you. Our lawyers can work closely with you to understand your circumstances and objectives, crafting personalized strategies to navigate the complexities of German immigration law efficiently. From initial consultations to document preparation and representation before immigration authorities, we provide hands-on assistance to ensure a smooth and successful transition to Germany.
After moving to Germany from New Zealand, our lawyers can help you in further steps. For instance, if you are planning to apply for residency in Germany, the services of our lawyers are at your disposal.
Types of residence permits in Germany and their costs
In Germany, there are primarily three main categories of residence permits:
- Temporary residence permits: Typically valid for up to five years, these permits may also be issued for shorter durations, such as one year, with the possibility of renewal.
- EU Blue Card: This permit is granted for four years and is specifically designed for highly skilled migrants, allowing them to both work and travel within other EU/EFTA countries.
- Permanent residence permits: Eligibility for this permit generally arises after living continuously in Germany for five years under a temporary permit. However, certain circumstances may warrant a shorter eligibility period, such as two years for skilled workers graduating from a German university or 33 months for EU Blue Card holders.
Residence permit costs vary slightly across different German states and are contingent upon the duration and purpose of the stay. Temporary permits typically range from €50 to €100, while permanent permits may cost between €110 and €150. The fee for an EU Blue Card is €110. Renewal fees apply to all permit types.
Germany immigration statistics
If you are relocating to Germany from New Zealand, please find its immigration statistics below:
- Estimated net immigration in 2023 was between 680,000 and 710,000 people;
- This figure, though high, is notably lower than the peak seen in 2015, when 1.14 million individuals migrated to Germany;
- In 2022, migration levels were even higher, with 1.46 million foreign nationals immigrating to Germany, driven in part by conflicts such as the war in Ukraine.
Should you have any inquiries regarding the aforementioned statistics, our legal team is readily available to assist. Furthermore, once you have settled in Germany and fulfilled the residency requirements, should you become eligible to apply for citizenship, our lawyers are equipped to guide you through the process.
From evaluating eligibility criteria to preparing documentation and representing you throughout the application process, our services are tailored to facilitate a seamless transition to German citizenship.
Please contact us if you need legal assistance regarding this matter.
