Moving to Germany: work, study and visits
Prepare your plans for Germany with official route links, a document checklist and a practical budget.
Start with the official authority
The Visa Navigator asks about your purpose of entry and explains relevant visa routes and where to apply. Begin with Federal Foreign Office and choose the route that matches your purpose. Read the requirements on the original page before arranging travel or making an application. Keep the link with your notes so you can return when the instructions change.
If you are considering work
Find the original employer advert and compare the duties, location and contract with your experience. Read the government work-route instructions separately, and ask the employer about details the advert does not explain. Keep your CV and the evidence requested for that role together.
If you are considering study
Use the university’s original course and admissions pages to compare the course, teaching language, entry requirements and fees. Check scholarship conditions with the provider. Prepare the documents requested by the institution and the authority, keeping the two checklists distinct where their requirements differ.
If you are planning a visit
Read the official visitor instructions for your nationality, purpose and proposed dates. Build a practical itinerary, check the supporting evidence requested for your application and keep accommodation and travel information with your notes.
Plan the budget and checklist
Budget in EUR and compare it with your own currency using Total cost. Include documents, tests, application charges, travel and initial living costs that apply to your plans. Use current official fees and your own quotes rather than example figures. Read the responsible German mission’s local instructions before choosing a visa appointment.
Keep your next steps in Flieva
Save the destination in your guided journey, open Track and mark the preparation tasks you have completed. Use the official portal for messages and application decisions, and update your own checklist when you receive news.