Applying for a German Visa from the USA

If you are still in the United States and wish to apply for a German visa before traveling, you need to contact the German consulate responsible for your region. The process is as follows:

1. Select the Right Visa Type: Choose the correct visa based on your purpose of stay:

   • Job Seeker Visa

   • Blue Card (for highly skilled professionals)

   • Work Visa

   • Student Visa

   • Freelancer Visa

   • Family Reunion Visa

2. Submit Your Visa Application:

   • Use the contact form for entry inquiries (Referat B7 - Einreise): Submit Your Inquiry

   • Schedule an appointment at the nearest German Consulate in the U.S.

   • Prepare required documents, such as your passport, proof of funds, and health insurance.

3. Wait for Approval: Once approved, you will receive a visa sticker in your passport, allowing you to travel to Germany.

Applying for a Visa After Arriving in Germany

Americans can enter Germany visa-free for up to 90 days. During this period, you can apply for a long-term residence permit at the Berlin Immigration Office (LEA).

Visa Options After Arriving in Berlin

1) Job Seeker Visa

If you don't have a job yet but wish to find employment in Germany, you can apply for a Job Seeker Visa, which grants you 6 months to look for work.

Requirements:

• Proof of sufficient financial means (around €1,027 per month)

• Recognized university degree

• Health insurance

2) Blue Card (For Highly Skilled Workers)

If you have a recognized university degree and a job offer in Germany with a minimum salary of €45,300/year (€39,682/year for shortage occupations), you can apply for the EU Blue Card. This is one of the fastest routes to obtaining German residency and even permanent settlement.

3) Work Visa (For Non-Highly Skilled Workers)

If you don’t qualify for the Blue Card but have a valid work contract in Germany, you can apply for a general work visa.

Requirements:

• Job offer in Germany

• Proof that the job cannot easily be filled by an EU citizen

• Health insurance

• Recognition of foreign qualifications (if required for your profession)

4) Freelancer Visa

Germany offers a visa for self-employed individuals and freelancers in creative, IT, and academic fields. This visa requires you to show:

• Clients or contracts from German companies

• Financial sustainability

• Health insurance

• Proof of experience and qualifications

5) Student Visa

If you’re planning to study in Germany, you must apply for a student visa before arrival or switch to one within the 90-day period.

Requirements:

• Admission to a German university

• Proof of financial means (€11,208/year in a blocked account)

• Health insurance

6) Family Reunion Visa

If your spouse or close family member is a German resident, you may be eligible for a family reunion visa.

Requirements:

• Proof of relationship (marriage/birth certificate)

• German language skills (A1 level for spouses)

• Health insurance

• Financial support from the sponsoring relative

Where and How to Apply in Berlin

Berlin Immigration Office (LEA) - No Online Appointments

Unlike before, Berlin Immigration Office (LEA) no longer offers online appointments for visa applications. Instead, you must submit your application via an online contact form, and the immigration office will contact you for further steps.

📌 Submit Your Inquiry Here: Contact LEA

Which Department Handles U.S. Citizens?

If you are a U.S. citizen, your case will be processed by Referat E2 at the Berlin Immigration Office.

📌 Contact the Responsible Department: Referat E2

Processing Time & What to Expect

Processing times can take several weeks or months, depending on workload and visa type. It is crucial to apply as early as possible and ensure all documents are complete to avoid delays.

How ExpatEaze Can Help

Navigating German bureaucracy can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone! ExpatEaze offers professional assistance for:

• Visa consultation & application review

• Document translation & preparation

• Appointment booking & follow-ups

• Accompanying you to the LEA office

📞 Need help with your German visa application? Book a free consultation now! Schedule Here