The Independent Means Visa in Germany (also known as Residence Permit for Persons of Independent Means) offers temporary residency to qualified individuals who can demonstrate sufficient financial resources to support themselves without engaging in employment in Germany.
MOBILITY ASSSET SNAPSHOT
The Residence Permit for Persons of Independent Means program in Germany provides a pathway to temporary residency for individuals with substantial financial resources. This program is designed to attract retirees, investors, and other individuals looking to establish residency in one of Europe's strongest economies with a high quality of life.
Overview
A route to temporary residency for qualified individuals with independent means in Germany
Eligibility Requirements
Individuals with passive income from a foreign source
Anchor Ancestor restrictions
Months to citizenship
Length of Visa
1-3 years, renewable
Months to Visa
3-6 months
Physical Presence Requirement
Must establish primary residence in Germany
Availability
Moderate
Family Allowance
Spouse and children
Overview
Submit application at the German embassy or consulate in your home country, or at the local Foreigners Authority (Ausländerbehörde) if already in Germany.
Overview
Our experienced team will guide you through each stage of the application process, offering personalized assistance tailored to your needs.
We'll help you gather and organize the documents you need for applying.
Once your documents are ready, we'll let you know where and how to submit your application to the relevant authorities.
Questions?
Find answers to common questions about GlobalPassport™ and our services.
How long does it take to process an Independent Means Visa application?
Can I include my family members in my Independent Means Visa application?
What types of financial resources are considered for the Independent Means Visa?
How often do I need to renew my residence permit?
Can Independent Means Visa holders apply for German permanent residency?
DOCUMENTS
Passport+State Issued ID+Biometrics
Marriage certificate and birth certificates of dependents (if applicable)
Not applicable
Not applicable
Applicants must provide documentation proving they have sufficient financial means to support themselves in Germany
DOCUMENTS
Birth certificates from government archives; Marriage certificates for family dependencies; Police clearance records from current and past residences
Certified translations into official language(s); Apostille certification; Government-issued document legalization
Diploma and transcript verification; Professional certification authentication; Credential evaluation services
Initial application submission fee; Processing and handling charges; Administrative review fees
Fingerprint collection fee; Digital photograph requirements; Biometric data processing
Required medical examinations; Vaccination verification; Health certificate processing
Document verification fees; Background check processing; Application status updates
Consulate visit expenses; Interview travel costs; Temporary accommodation (if required)
Language proficiency testing; Skills assessment fees; Additional document requests
Immigration lawyer consultation; Document review services; Legal representation fees
Tax planning consultation; Asset transfer advisory; Investment planning services
Relocation services; Property search assistance; Settlement support services
Residency card processing; Passport issuance fees; Registration certificates
Oath ceremony fees; Registration charges; Local authority fees
Renewal fees; Status maintenance costs; Annual reporting fees
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