How to Settle in Germany From India in 2024?

Germany is a rapidly rising education hub across the globe, known for its high educational and research standards and the world’s most efficient economy, with high production per employee. 

According to Germany’s Federal Employment Agency, the government hopes to attract 400,000 skilled migrants yearly to meet labor demand. If you wish to emigrate to Germany from India to study or work in this thriving country, there are a few processes you should know to make it as pleasant as possible. 

This guide will cover all the details you need for German immigration, from understanding PR rules for the Indian population in Germany to acquiring a visa to living in Germany.

But before we dive deeper we would recommend you to check out our ‘Study Abroad: Germany Colleges, Eligibility & Scholarships‘ that will help you to gain a better understanding of the academic and educational environment in Germany, as well as the various opportunities available for international students.

Why is Germany a Suitable Country for Indians?

Germany is a suitable for Indians to migrate for several reasons:

• You don’t need to reapply for Germany permanent residence for Indians during your indefinite stay.
• There is no requirement to change jobs, allowing residents to start businesses unrelated to their educational qualifications and training.
• Enjoy social security assistance, such as unemployment benefits.
• Germans offer great healthcare, infrastructure, public transit, and social benefits.
• The country is famed for its world-class education system, with many institutions providing low or no tuition fees to overseas students. It makes it a desirable location for Indian students seeking a good education.
• The country has a strong demand for skilled workers in IT, engineering, healthcare, and research. Indians with relevant skills and qualifications can find promising career prospects for the Indian population in Germany.
• Germany has a broad culture that embraces individuals from various backgrounds and supports pluralism. Indians can find societies and opportunities to preserve their cultural heritage while assimilating into German culture and time in Germany and India.
• After residing in Germany for eight years, individuals can apply for naturalization as German citizens.
• Gain admission to any German University and receive financial assistance while completing courses.

Want to know more about Germany?
Explore ‘40 Interesting Facts About Germany‘ in our latest blog and uncover interesting details about this incredible country!

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What is the Permanent Residence Permit of German Universities for Indians?

Indians moving to Germany from India must work on a residence visa for at least two years before seeking permanent resident status and finishing their education as foreign graduates at a German institution. 

The state or equivalent must approve higher education institutes in Germany. In Germany, the PR, also known as the Niederlassungserlaubnis or Settlement Permit, enables persons from outside the EU and EEA to live, study, and work there, as well as bring their families. After living in Germany for eight years, individuals can apply for citizenship/ naturalization.

You can apply for a PR for Germany from India permit if you are: 

• A student with a foreign university degree. 
• An employee with a German university degree 
• Self-employed individuals, 
• Families with German nationals, as well as asylum seekers or refugees, are all eligible.

Different Ways to Apply PR for Germany from India

Here are the different pathways to apply PR for Germany from India:

1. PR in Germany for Graduates

The PR for Germany from India pathway is designed for graduates of vocational schools or German universities who have worked in Germany for at least two years after graduation. However, there are additional criteria to meet before pursuing PR in Germany after completing studies.

Eligibility Criteria:

• Job relevance to vocational training or education.
• Fluency in at least B1 level German and passing the ‘Life in Germany’ exam.
• No due pension insurance for the next 24 months.

Application Process for Germany PR process:

• International students who graduated from Germany cannot directly apply for Germany PR process citizenship after completing their studies, even if they have stayed in the country for many years. 
• They need to find a reputable job, work for at least two years, and then apply for PR for Germany from India.

Also read “Top 14 Fully Funded Scholarships In Germany For International Students” for detailed information on scholarships that could support your studies abroad.

2. PR in Germany for Highly Qualified Professionals

Highly Qualified Professionals can obtain permanent residency upon entering the country. This category includes individuals specializing in specific fields, university teachers, or executives. 

However, they must meet the following eligibility criteria:

• Ability to integrate into German life.
• Academic qualifications for the Indian population in Germany.
• Financial independence without public assistance.

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3. PR in Germany for EU Blue Card Holders

EU Blue Card holders can secure permanent residency in Germany within just 33 months of their stay. 

However, their work profile must align with their qualifications, and they must contribute to the statutory pension insurance fund. 

Other Germany PR process eligibility criteria include:

• Fluency in A1 level German.
• Adaptation to the German lifestyle.
• Adequate living space for a lifetime.

4. PR in Germany for Self-Employed

Self-employed individuals working in Germany for the last three years with a valid residence visa can apply for PR. However, they must be self-employed at the time of application and demonstrate sufficient resources to cover their and their family’s expenses.

Permanent Residence Germany Eligibility Criteria for Setting up a Business:

• Economic viability and demand for the product or service.
• Ability to finance the business through capital or loans.
• Provision of old-age pension certificates for individuals above 45 years.

Eligibility Criteria for Freelancers:

• Evidence of funding projects.
• Requisite licenses for the field of work.
• Provision of old-age pension certificates for individuals above 45 years.

5. PR for Family Members of Someone With German Residence

This category is for close family members of permanent German citizens successfully employed in the country. However, applicants can only apply for PR after completing three years of stay.

Permanent Residence Germany Eligibility Criteria:

• Fluency in B1 level German.
• Possession of a valid work permit.
• Contribution to the pension insurance fund.
• Intent to continue living as a German citizen.
• Sufficient personal income without social security assistance.

• Dependent family members need to provide proof of a five-year stay.

Documents Required for Indians to Apply for PR in Germany

Wondering how to get to Germany from India? Here are the documents necessary to apply for PR in Germany:

• Identification proof
• Immigration pass
• Passport with a validity of six months
• Name change certificate and deed poll, if required
• Two passport-sized photos
• Certificate of the highest education degree
• Proof of date of birth
• Current employment letter with detailed employment information
• Registration certificate detailing shareholders and owner information for self-employed individuals
• Signed consent from the Tax department to access financial documents

Additional documents may be required based on specific categories:

For Employed Individuals:

• Employment contract
• Previous six-month salary statements
• Current employer certificate issued within the last fourteen days
• Pension insurance documentation

For Self-Employed Individuals or Freelancers:

• Current tax assessment notice
• Audit report conducted by a professional auditor, tax consultant, or tax agent

Officials may request other documents as necessary.

Eligibility Criteria for Indians Applying for Permanent Residency in Germany

Here are the eligibility criteria for Indians to apply for the PR process in Germany:

• Possess a valid passport from any country.
• Demonstrate at least B1 level proficiency in German.
• Hold German Health Insurance coverage.
• Have a clean criminal record with no registered offenses.
• Be in good health to engage in work or studies in the country.
• Earn a sufficient income to support themselves and their family’s stay.
• Provide evidence of marriage if applying through a partner visa.
• Show proof of admission to a German University.
• Successfully pass the ‘Life in Germany’ test as part of the application process.

How to Obtain Permanent Residency (PR) in Germany for Indians?

Here is a step-by-step guide on how Indians can obtain Permanent Residency (PR) in Germany:

Step 1: Register Your German Address

• Initially, for how to get to Germany from India, if you are applying for German immigration from India or within the first 90 days of your stay in Germany, it’s essential to register your German address. The requirement must be fulfilled to proceed with the permanent residency process. Upon registration, you will receive a document to include with your application form.

Step 2: Obtain Health Insurance and Open a Bank Account

• Another crucial requirement is having health insurance in Germany. If you don’t have one, apply for German health insurance, as foreign policies are rarely accepted during the application process.
• Additionally, to demonstrate financial stability, open a German bank account and transfer the necessary funds into it. Provide the bank statement as proof of financial support with your application.

Step 3: Schedule an Appointment and Complete the Application Form

• To obtain the PR for Indian population in Germany form, schedule an appointment at the local immigration office and collect the form on the designated date. It’s advisable to schedule the appointment as soon as possible due to potential crowds at immigration offices. You must stay within the 90-day limit to make sure your application is completed on time.

Step 4: Arrive Early for Your Appointment

• On the appointment day, arrive early to allow for potential wait time. Once called, submit the required documents for verification. Expect a brief interview to confirm the authenticity of your documents.

Step 5: Pay the Application Fee

• Following the interview, proceed to the payment counter to submit the application fee for processing. Payment methods typically include cash, bank transfer, or EC card. Upon successful submission, await approval of your application from the authorities.

How to Check PR Application Status Online in Germany?

To track PR Application Status:

Applicants often want to know the status of their visa after submitting their application forms. You can track your Germany PR process application status online using the following steps:

1. Visit the official website of VFS.
2. Navigate to the ‘Track your Application’ section.
3. Enter your application reference number, date of birth, and captcha as requested in the dialogue box.
4. Fill in the required information and click the ‘Submit’ button to check your application status.

Living in Germany for Indians

• The experience of living in Germany is notably different from life in India. There are differences in how individuals work, eat, interact, and treat one another at different times in Germany and India. 
• Indians can enjoy living in Germany if they become acquainted with the local culture and lifestyle. The Germans work hard and value hard workers. It is ideal to brush up on German language skills and etiquette before deciding to come to Germany. 
• Before entering the country, one should conduct some study and become acquainted with the do’s and don’ts.

Here are some simple tips to understand and adapt to German culture smoothly:

1. Respect Rules and Regulations

Germans value order and follow the rules strictly, whether it’s traffic rules, recycling guidelines, or work ethics. Check the official German Foreign Office website for detailed information on German regulations.

2. Punctuality:

Being on time is crucial in Germany as it shows respect. Whether it’s work or social gatherings, make sure to be punctual.

3. Formality:

Germans prefer a formal approach, especially in professional settings. Address people using Mr. or Ms. followed by their surname unless told otherwise.

4. Socializing:

While Germans may seem reserved initially, they are friendly and helpful once you get to know them. Engage in social events and join clubs to expand your network.

5. Sustainability:

Germans are environmentally conscious, so learn about recycling practices and follow them diligently.

Also read ‘Top 10 Reasons Why You Should Study in Germany’ to understand why Germany stands out as an ideal place for your higher education journey.

Germany Career Outlook for Indians

• Germany’s job market for technical and business students is flourishing. The country, recognized for its strong position in the global technology industry, is experiencing a significant increase in tech job prospects as a result of digitalization. Also, with over 3.5 million firms, Germany provides a thriving market for different industries. 
• According to the Federal Employment Agency, the need for technology workers in Germany will increase by more than 25% in 2020. It shows an increased need for competent workers in the technology industry.

Many of them have transitioned to the employment market and are making valuable contributions. 

Here are tips for how to apply for a job in Germany from India:

1. Use Job Search Platforms: Look for jobs on platforms like Englischjobs.de, Monster.de, and LinkedIn, which offer job listings across different sectors.
2. Prepare Your CV: Keep your CV concise (usually two pages), including a professional photo, detailed career history, education, and language proficiency. Ensure it follows the “Europass” standard for better acceptance.
3. Interview Preparation: Familiarize yourself with interview questions and practice your self-presentation skills. Ask about the required documents for the interview.
4. Job Seeker Visa Benefits: The visa allows Indian professionals to stay in Germany for up to 6 months to search for a job.

Also read Part-Time Jobs in Germany for Students to explore the best opportunities for students to earn while they learn.

Conclusion

Germany’s exceptional quality of life, combined with various pathways to permanent residency for graduates and professionals, makes it an attractive destination for building your future.

To ensure you’re fully prepared, Great Learning offers a Masters program at FOM University with no GRE/TOEFL requirements, plus up to 33% savings and an 18-month Job Seeker VISA. Connect with a global alumni network and turn your German education dream into reality, paving the way to your dream job in Germany.

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