Germany Visa & Immigration Services

Hudson McKenzie advises individuals, entrepreneurs and businesses on German immigration and residence options, including skilled worker permits, the EU Blue Card, the Opportunity Card, self-employment, study and family reunification.

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Germany offers several routes for international professionals and businesses seeking access to one of Europe's largest economies. The right immigration strategy will depend on factors including nationality, qualifications, salary, employment arrangements, professional experience and the intended length of stay.

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EU and EFTA nationals benefit from freedom of movement and generally do not require a visa to live and work in Germany. Different requirements apply to most third-country nationals.

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Whether you are accepting a position in Germany, transferring employees, recruiting international talent, establishing a business or joining family members, Hudson McKenzie can assess the available immigration routes and support the application process from initial planning through to residence and longer-term status.

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Speak to our team to identify the appropriate German immigration route for your circumstances.

Germany provides residence options for third-country nationals intending to establish or operate a business, pursue qualifying self-employed activity, or undertake study, research or training — routes that share a common thread of not depending on employer sponsorship in the way a standard work visa does.

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Self-Employed Business: Entrepreneurs may be able to obtain a residence permit to establish a commercial business in Germany. The assessment can include the economic viability of the proposed business, its anticipated impact on the German economy, financing and the applicant's ability to support themselves.

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A detailed and credible business plan can therefore be an important part of the immigration application.

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Freelance Activity: Separate provisions may apply to qualifying freelance professionals depending on the proposed activity and the circumstances of the applicant.

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EU, EEA and Swiss nationals generally benefit from freedom of establishment and do not require a visa or residence permit simply to establish a business in Germany.

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Business immigration applications frequently overlap with corporate structuring, employment, regulatory and mobility considerations. Hudson McKenzie can advise entrepreneurs, founders and businesses on the immigration aspects of establishing operations in Germany and help prepare the required residence application.

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Student Visa: Third-country nationals admitted to a recognised German higher education institution may be eligible for a visa and residence permit for study. Applicants generally need to demonstrate university admission, sufficient financial resources and, where applicable, the required language ability.

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International students can undertake permitted employment alongside their studies, subject to German immigration rules.

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After successfully completing a German degree, graduates may be able to remain in Germany for up to 18 months to search for qualified employment. Once suitable employment is found, they may be able to move into a skilled worker residence permit or EU Blue Card.

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Seeking a University Place: A separate immigration route may be available to eligible applicants who intend to seek admission to a German higher education institution.

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Vocational Training: Germany also provides visa routes for vocational training and, in qualifying circumstances, for applicants seeking a vocational training position.

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Researchers: Researchers undertaking qualifying research activity in Germany may be eligible for a dedicated residence route.

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Hudson McKenzie can advise entrepreneurs, founders, students, graduates, researchers and educational institutions on the appropriate immigration category and the requirements for transitioning between routes.

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Why Choose Hudson McKenzie

Hudson McKenzie advises individuals, professionals, entrepreneurs and international businesses on German immigration and global mobility matters.

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Our team can assist with:

assessing the appropriate German visa or residence route;
EU Blue Card and skilled worker applications;
Opportunity Card eligibility and applications;
qualification and employment-related immigration requirements;
corporate relocations and employee transfers;
entrepreneur and self-employment residence applications;
student, graduate and researcher immigration;
family reunification;
extensions and changes of immigration status;
settlement and permanent residence planning; and
longer-term naturalisation and citizenship strategy.

For employers, immigration planning often begins well before an employee travels. Hudson McKenzie can work with HR, global mobility teams, founders and senior management to assess immigration eligibility, application strategy and supporting documentation while helping businesses manage international assignments and recruitment into Germany.

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For individuals and families, we provide practical advice on the route that fits the intended purpose and duration of residence, helping clients understand the requirements, documentation and next steps from the outset.

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Planning to work, invest, study, establish a business or relocate to Germany? Contact Hudson McKenzie for an assessment of your German immigration options.

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Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. German immigration law, salary thresholds, financial requirements, procedures and eligibility criteria are subject to change. Please contact Hudson McKenzie for advice tailored to your specific circumstances.