German
Immigration
Lawyer

The two most common routes to German citizenship are through descent and residency. Both processes demonstrate the importance of Germany to the individual, whether this is through their familial links to the country or because they have made Germany their new home. For many individuals, their familial ties are significant for self-discovery. Knowing where our family comes from allows them to appreciate who they are.

German citizenship by naturalization allows people born outside of Germany to become German citizens due to them residing in Germany. Citizenship is not a requirement to live and work in Germany. Still, it provides many benefits, such as voting rights and the ability to remain in Germany permanently, which means that visas and resident permits are no longer required.

As more people move to Germany and make their homes there, the interest in dual citizenship has increased. German citizenship provides enormous advantages for those based in Germany. They are then not limited by visas or residence permits regarding their form of employment, do not need to undergo more bureaucracy if they wish to retire in Germany, and can benefit from EU citizenship. However, those interested in German citizenship may not want to give up their previous citizenship and therefore seek advice regarding dual citizenship.

Dual citizenship is a complex legal area, and it varies considerably based on the country of origin of the applicant. For those seeking German citizenship from European Union countries, retaining their original citizenship is much more straightforward than those from third countries. The laws in this area also depend on the citizenship laws of the other country alongside Germany. However, the legal situation in Germany relating to citizenship is set for changes in the coming years. Therefore, it is advisable to consult with citizenship lawyers to receive specialised counsel pertaining to your dual citizenship case.

Our lawyers will support you when applying for the German Retention Permit (“die Beibehaltungsgenehmigung”. This application must be made because Germans generally lose their citizenship when they acquire foreign nationality, and the German Retention Permit is not provided automatically. However, it is not necessary in cases where the citizenship of another EU member state or Switzerland is accepted.

If you are determined to move to Germany for employment purposes, our team of immigration lawyers will provide the legal counsel and assistance needed. Our team advises on options available to skilled workers under the recent Skilled Immigration Act, supports companies with ICT Card processes and consults with clients regarding various visas. Our team supports businesses by overseeing ICT Card applications for the entire company and will provide reliable legal advice relating to accelerating applications under the Skilled Immigration Act.

For freelancers and digital nomads, our team is here to assist them with the options available to them, such as the German Freelance Visa. This visa allows freelancers, self-employed individuals and digital nomads to establish themselves and reside in Germany. However, it is not the only option available to those in this position. A meeting with our team will allow them to outline your options relating to starting a business in Germany, avoiding “fake” self-employment (“Scheinselbstständigkeit”) and whether they may be eligible to apply for the EU Blue Card.

The EU Blue Card is designed for high-earning individuals from third countries and those in fields with employee shortages. Applicants need to fulfil the following conditions:

• possession of a German or an accredited foreign university degree comparable to a German one.
• an offer of a job in Germany that reaches the required earning limits– or
• an offer of a job in an area where workers are being sought for in Germany (scientists, mathematicians, engineers, doctors and IT-skilled workers) which has a lower earning requirement.

The holder of such an EU Blue Card may stay in the EU for up to four years and there are also increased prospects regarding a potential permanent settlement permit and family reunification. Should an EU Blue Card holder demonstrate the required German language requirements (B1 standard) they can accelerate their claim to German permanent residency. Our team of German immigration lawyers will advise you on all questions concerning the EU Blue Card in Germany.

Living in Germany can be difficult for people not used to the culture and language, however, this can be made easier with loved ones nearby. The manner by which a family can be reunited in Germany varies depending on which part of the world you are coming from, the nature of your stay in Germany and which visa you are in Germany under. Our articles on family reunification outline the requirements for the various situations. These articles are very detailed and the processes in question can be time-consuming.

At Schlun & Elseven our immigration law team is experienced in this field. We have worked with clients from all over the world in ensuring successful family reunification in Germany. Contact us today to benefit from our assistance. Read our articles to find out more about the process involved.

The German permanent residence permit is an unlimited residence title granted to a foreigner to consolidate their residence in Germany. It allows them to live and work in Germany without restrictions, whether as employee or in self-employment. Additionally, permanent residency grants its holder freedom of movement, which allows them to enter and leave the country at any time and without the restrictions in place for other visas and residence permits.

Permanent residency can come about in several manners, and eligibility for permanent residence is based on the residence permit that the individual used to come to Germany. The EU Blue Card, for example, grants its holder permanent residency in under four years, and can even provide permanent residency after 21 months, should its holder reach the required language standards.

Permanent residency should be considered a “must-have” for those who seek to stay long-term in Germany. However, it is worthwhile consulting with an experienced legal professional when making your application. Our team will outline the requirements for German permanent residency and will oversee your application.