Lawyer Immigration to Germany for US citizens
- Isabelle Manoli

- Aug 18
- 4 min read

What is an immigration lawyer in Germany?
Americans seeking to migrate to Germany face a multitude of bureaucratic hurdles . Many people get lost among application forms, embassy appointments, and documentation requirements – and this is precisely where the work of a German immigration lawyer (specializing in immigration law ) comes in. These specialized lawyers are familiar not only with German residence law, but also with the special requirements that regularly arise with visa applications from the USA.
A German immigration lawyer advises on all matters relating to migration to Germany. This begins with clarifying the basic requirements , such as a specific purpose of stay (e.g., work, family reunification, studies), and extends to concrete support during the visa process . Representation before German diplomatic missions abroad – i.e., embassies and consulates in cities such as Los Angeles ( German Consulate General Los Angeles ), San Francisco ( German Consulate General San Francisco ), Miami ( German Consulate General Miami ), or New York ( German Consulate General New York ) – is particularly important for clients from the USA. If problems arise, such as a visa application being rejected, a German lawyer can also file a lawsuit with an administrative court in Germany.
How does VISAGUARD support US citizens in migrating to Germany?
VISAGUARD specializes in precisely these procedures and regularly assists clients from the United States who wish to immigrate to Germany. The attorneys at VISAGUARD have extensive experience with the common German diplomatic missions in the USA and are intimately familiar with the local procedures. This particularly applies to work visas for skilled workers from the USA , which account for a large proportion of visa applications in the USA.
A major advantage for clients: The attorneys not only know which documents must be submitted, but also what these documents must be in. Practical experience is crucial – it's not enough to simply know the legal requirements; you also need to know how to prove them in the US . In addition to assisting with the application process, VISAGUARD attorneys can also handle communication with employers in Germany, draft and review employment contracts, and direct correspondence with authorities and foreign missions. Even if additional family members are migrating with you – such as spouses or children – the VISAGUARD team handles the entire legal organization.
Costs, process and appointment scheduling: This is how the assignment works
The cost of legal representation depends on the scope of the desired service . An initial legal assessment, known as an initial consultation, starts at just €190 (including 19% VAT). However, those requiring full representation throughout the visa process—including communication with the embassy, correspondence with German authorities, and, if applicable, employers—must expect a fee of €1,500 (plus 19% VAT). If immigration is planned as a family project, i.e., with a spouse or children ( family reunification ), an additional fee of €750 (plus 19% VAT) will be charged for each additional family member. This covers the legal coordination of the accompanying visa applications, including review of documents and preparation of the required supporting documents.
An appointment with a VISAGUARD attorney can be easily scheduled online . The website provides a contact form where interested parties can briefly describe their case. A lawyer will then contact you personally to offer a specific appointment time. Due to the time difference, appointments are usually held in the morning, US time . Payment is in advance and can be easily made via the website.
Conclusion: VISAGUARD as a reliable partner for US citizens on their way to Germany
Migrating from the USA to Germany is not a given – even for citizens of a privileged country like the United States. While US citizens enjoy advantages in many areas , such as visa-free travel for short stays, numerous legal hurdles must be overcome when transitioning to regular residency – for example, through a work permit. A specialized German lawyer can play a crucial role in this. The expertise, experience, and knowledge of the procedures at German embassies in the USA make the difference between a successful application and a long and arduous process. VISAGUARD offers US citizens clear, professional, and digital support throughout the entire migration process – from initial consultation to arrival in Germany and further integration (e.g., settlement permit and naturalization ).
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Sources:
[1] BeckOK AuslR/Klaus, 44th Ed. April 1, 2025, BeschV § 26 Rn. 1-46
[2] Offer/Mävers, BeschV, 2nd edition 2022
[3] Regarding the (denied) visa requirement for Best Friends members, see Administrative Court Munich, decision of 04.09.2020 - M 9 S 20.3274



