Golden Visa Germany

Golden Visa Germany

Obtaining a residence permit in Germany through investments.

Access to Germany and the German market offers many benefits. Its geographical location and its global lead in manufacturing, engineering, the chemical industry and focus on renewable energies are just a few reasons why Germany is an attractive place to live and work. German citizenship allows easy access to the whole European market for business and investment options. Furthermore, it is a safe and secure country to live, work and study.

Continue reading to find out about the different ways to immigrate to Germany and if a Golden Visa is a viable option when planning to immigrate to Germany.

What is a Golden Visa and what makes it interesting?

A so-called ‘Golden Visa’ is a way to gain residency or citizenship in a country by investing in real estate there. Therefore, holders of a Golden Visa are not required to live or work in that country nor does the holder need familial or ancestral links to the country in question. The specific requirements differ between the countries such as the required amount that has to be invested, the location or type of real estate and the specific industries of the required investment.

Is it possible to get a Golden Visa in Germany?

Germany does not provide a classic golden visa but there are alternative possibilities to obtain a residence permit in Germany.

Temporary residence permit under § 7(1) of the German Residency Act

In some cases, it is possible to get a temporary residence permit under § 7(1) of the German Residency Act by investing in real estate in Germany if you are also able to provide sufficient resources to live of your own assets. This has been confirmed in a case from the Administrative Court in Freiburg from 18 July 2018, 1 K 1083/17.

It is worth noting that this form of German residency is more complex than other ways, such as business immigration for entrepreneurs according to § 21 German Residency Act/Aufenthaltsgesetz.

Business immigration for entrepreneurs according to § 21 German Residency Act

Although this requires the applicant to take on a more active role in Germany, it also includes advantages. For example, the German Citizenship is fast-tracked and can be granted in six years, a permanent residence permit is possible after three years, it gives the right to family reunification and the applicant does not need to meet a language requirement.

The requirements for an entrepreneurial visa are as follows – the business:

must meet an economic interest or regional need,

is supposed to have a positive impact on the German economy

and financing must be secured by equity capital or a loan commitment.

Short overview of the process of obtaining an Entrepreneural Visa

  • The first step to start your immigration process under the Entrepreneural Visa is to draft a business plan, that meets the above-mentioned requirements. Our lawyers will be happy to assist you through that.
  • This Plan will then be discussed with the Local Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Germany. We are there, to make sure your business plan meets all requirements.
  • The next step is to incorporate your company, e.g. as a GmbH. Our Lawyers make sure your company is founded without any legal worries.
  • After founding the company your visa application can be submitted. We are happy to take care of that for you.
  • Following, you are able to enter Germany and register with the local registration office.
  • Lastly the application for the residence permit according to § 21 AufentG takes place. Our lawyers make sure that your application is complete and that no questions remain unanswered to the German immigration authorities.

For more information regarding the entrepreneurial visa, click here.

Schlun & Elseven Rechtsanwälte – Full Service in German Immigration Law

Since bureaucracy can be overwhelming in Germany, we are here to guide and assist you through the immigration process. Contact us now to evaluate which form of residence suits your situation the best. Our experienced lawyers will guide you through this elaborate legal field and help you assess the most favorable option for you.

Contact us now

„Business Immigration Germany – by Schlun & Elseven“ is a website for all matters of Business Immigration from all over the world to Germany by the renowned German Law firm Schlun & Elseven. Due to our extensive experience in German residence and work permits, family reunification and various immigration cases, we can offer full-service legal advice and comprehensive support you can trust. 

Don’t hesitate to use our contact form. Our lawyers are happy to help you figure out the best way to approach your business immigration process now.

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