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European Residency
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Apply Citizenship 7-10 years

Germany is a thriving hub of industry, manufacturing, and engineering and is recognised by many as one of the main economic powerhouses of Europe.
Germany does not offer a traditional golden visa through passive investment in property, funds or government bonds. However, non-EU nationals may obtain residency by establishing and actively operating a business. This is commonly described as the German Business Investor Visa. This route is designed for entrepreneurs who establish or invest in a genuine German business that they will actively manage.
Germany also offers a residence route for eligible freelancers in recognised liberal professions. Applicants must show sufficient funds, obtain any professional licences required and meet the applicable immigration conditions. This is a self-employment route rather than an investment program.
The main applicant must be at least 18 years of age, have no criminal record, and may include their spouse, and dependent children under the age of 18 in the application. Temporary residency visas will be granted initially, with the option to apply for permanent residency after three years for the main applicant and five years for the remaining family members.
Germany does not offer direct citizenship by investment. Naturalisation may generally be possible after five years of lawful residence, subject to language, integration, financial and other legal requirements.
According to the La Vida Passport Value Index, a German passport provides access to 215 of the world’s 227 destinations, representing 99.5% of global GDP and 99.6% of the worldwide visitor market.
Compare a German passport with your current passport using La Vida’s free Passport Value Report.
For dedicated golden visa or citizenship by investment programmes, see the alternative programmes below.