Citizens of the European Union do not require either a visa or a residence permit to enter Germany. If you reside there for an extended period, you are merely under a general obligation to register with the competent Einwohnermeldeämter (residents' registration offices) in your future place of residence.

In the course of registration with the registration authority EU citizens automatically receive a certificate attesting to their right of residence. The information and evidence necessary for the issue of the certificate can be provided when registering with the registration authority, which will forward this information and evidence to the Ausländerbehörde (authority responsible for foreigners).

In relation to family members of EU citizens originating from non-member countries an 'EU residence permit' is issued. For the purposes of the law on residence nationals of Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway are treated as EU citizens. Nationals of Switzerland are granted a similar right to enter and reside. However, they continue to require a special form which is declared as a 'residence permit'. No fees are charged for issuing a certificate attesting to the right to reside and an EU residence permit.

Text last edited on: 11/2006

Source: European Union
© European Communities, 1995-2007
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