Visa for Germany: What are the requirements for US citizens?

Isabelle Manoli
Aug 26
4 min read

Immigration to Germany is comparatively straightforward for Americans . This is due to a long history of close diplomatic relations and numerous bilateral agreements between the United States and Germany, which provide many advantages for US citizens when migrating. Nevertheless, there are certain legal requirements that US citizens must also meet if they wish to live or work permanently in Germany. In this article, we explain the conditions under which Americans can stay in Germany long-term (D visa).

USA: Easier migration – but not without conditions

US citizens do not require a visa for tourist or short-term stays of up to 90 days . However, anyone planning to stay in Germany longer—for example, to work, study, or for family reasons—must apply for a visa. Although the process is simpler than for many other third-country nationals, certain basic requirements apply.

The most important requirement is proof that, as a US citizen, you can independently support yourself in Germany . This means you must be able to support yourself without government assistance (Section 5 (1) No. 1 of the Residence Act). This can be achieved in various ways: through a regular income as an employee, through self-employment, or through sufficient assets. In practice, securing your livelihood is most commonly achieved through an employment contract with a German (or American) company.

If such an employment contract is in place, a work visa can be applied for on this basis. The legal basis for this is Section 26 Paragraph 1 of the Employment Ordinance (BeschV) . For the application to be approved, the salary must meet certain minimum thresholds . These vary depending on the industry and qualifications. As a rule of thumb, a gross annual salary of less than €40,000 can be problematic, especially if the occupation is not a so-called shortage occupation. From around €50,000 gross per year, one is often in a safe range, so approval by the Federal Employment Agency is usually granted without any problems.

Alternative: Opportunity Map for job-seeking US Americans

Those who haven't yet found a job in Germany can alternatively apply for an Opportunity Card . This new model allows people from the US and other third countries to enter Germany even without a specific job offer and to look for a job there. However, the prerequisite is that they can support themselves from their own resources – for example, through a blocked account with a certain amount of funds.

Professional qualifications, language skills, and age structure also play a role in the Opportunity Card. The process is points-based —those who meet certain minimum requirements can qualify for the card. The chances are particularly good for US Americans with a university degree, professional experience, and basic knowledge of German.

Further requirements: passport, health insurance, residence

In addition to proof of livelihood, further documents are required for migration from the USA to Germany. These primarily include a valid US passport . Applicants must also prove that they have health insurance valid in Germany . Most US Americans in Germany opt for statutory health insurance – Techniker Krankenkasse is a particularly popular choice. Alternatively, the authorities also accept private or international providers such as CIGNA, provided they meet the legal requirements.

In addition, an address in Germany must be provided upon application . German diplomatic missions abroad—especially the consulates general in New York , Miami , and Los Angeles —often require proof of accommodation in Germany. In most cases, a short-term accommodation solution, such as a hotel or a furnished apartment, is sufficient. It is important that a regular residential address is registered upon arrival.

Visa issuance by German diplomatic missions in the USA

A significant advantage for Americans is the comparatively fast processing time at German diplomatic missions in the USA. Visa issuance typically takes between four and eight weeks, provided all documents are complete and appointments are available. The consulates in New York and Los Angeles are particularly fast, often allowing for earlier appointments for complete applications.

A special case is the so-called advance approval from the Federal Employment Agency. If this approval has already been obtained, expedited procedures may be possible under certain circumstances. The Consulate General in New York sometimes schedules special appointments in such cases. This allows the visa to be issued within a few days – for example, if the employment relationship begins shortly after the start of the employment relationship. This service-oriented practice positively distinguishes the German embassies in the USA and is considered exemplary among immigration lawyers and relocation specialists.

Conclusion: USA requirements for migration to Germany

Compared to many other third-country nationals, US Americans enjoy significantly easier migration to Germany. Close bilateral relations and a well-organized visa process make the path to German professional and everyday life significantly easier. Nevertheless, clear requirements apply, particularly regarding securing a livelihood, health insurance, and proof of residence. Whether through an employment contract, the "Opportunity Card," or other means – with good preparation and complete documentation, the chances of obtaining a visa for Germany for US citizens are very good. Those who plan the process well in advance and adhere to the formal requirements benefit from a quick and efficient process – and from the opportunity to build a new professional and personal life in Germany.