Moving to Germany: Visa, Registration, Insurance, Citizenship
Moving to Germany from outside the EU usually starts with a visa. This topic page collects all our guides on Germany. It helps you if you want to work, live or later become a citizen there. The guides explain the Opportunity Card, the EU Blue Card, address registration, health insurance and the citizenship rules, each with official sources.
In short
To move to Germany from outside the EU, you usually need a visa for stays of more than three months. After you arrive, you register your address within two weeks and you need health insurance. Citizenship is possible after five years of lawful residence and with German at level B1.
Anmeldung Germany: How to Register Your Address
After you move into a home in Germany you must register your address within two weeks (Anmeldung). See the deadline, landlord duty and fines.
3 min read
Health Insurance When Moving to Germany: What the Law Says
Health insurance is mandatory for people who live in Germany. See what sections 193 VVG and 5 SGB V say and which rules apply to non-EU citizens.
4 min read
German Citizenship Requirements: Residence, Language, Test and Fees
German citizenship requirements per the BAMF: 5 years of residence, German level B1, a 33-question test and a 255 euro fee. Official sources.
5 min read
Germany Blue Card 2026: Salary Thresholds and Rules
The Germany blue card needs a minimum salary: 50,700 euros, or 45,934.20 euros in some cases, in 2026. See what section 18g says and what to check.
6 min read
Germany Opportunity Card: Points, Rules and Requirements
The Germany opportunity card lets you look for work in Germany for up to one year. See the 6-point system, language rules and money requirement.
6 min read
How to Move to Germany: Visa, Registration and Citizenship
How to move to Germany: national visa, Opportunity Card, EU Blue Card, address registration, health insurance and citizenship, with official sources.
10 min read
Frequently asked questions
How soon must I register my address in Germany?
Within two weeks after you move into a home. Your landlord must confirm your move-in within the same period. A late or missing registration can lead to a fine of up to 1,000 euros.
Is health insurance mandatory in Germany?
Yes. Health insurance is mandatory for every person with a residence in Germany. For non-EU citizens, statutory insurance duty depends on the residence permit.
What salary do I need for the EU Blue Card?
For 2026 the Federal Ministry of the Interior set 50,700 euros gross per year, and 45,934.20 euros for the lower threshold. The rules are in section 18g of the Residence Act.
What are the requirements for German citizenship?
You have lived in Germany lawfully for five years, speak German at level B1 and support yourself. As a rule you also pass the naturalisation test. The fee is 255 euros.