Visa for moving from the US to the EU The optimal visa setup for your immigration to Germany/EU
Anyone moving from the US to the European Union has to overcome complex bureaucratic hurdles. Whether you are a US citizen or a green card holder, the path to an EU visa depends on your destination country, your profession, and the planned length of your stay. But there is good news for US citizens: they are considered “privileged nationals.”
Do US citizens need a visa to move to the EU?
In principle, US citizens enjoy privileges when entering the Schengen area. However, clear rules apply to permanent relocation (more than 90 days):
- Visa-free entry: US citizens can enter as tourists for up to 90 days without a visa.
- Residence permit: For work, study, or family reunification, a residence permit must be applied for after entry (often directly in the destination country).
- Special feature in Germany: According to § 41 AufenthV, US citizens can apply for a residence permit immediately after entering Germany without first obtaining a visa from a consulate in the US.
Residence permits and visa types for US citizens
EU Blue Card for skilled workers
For highly qualified professionals (academics): minimum salary, benefits of family reunification, and residence permit.
Residence permit for gainful employment
With a specific job offer: Apply for a residence permit for employment.
Visa for self-employed persons and freelancers (Freelance Visa)
Digital nomads or freelancers. Proof of regional demand, as well as economic interest.
Family Reunion
Spouses with EU citizenship, moving to the US under EU freedom of movement laws. US citizens moving to join family members.
Checklist: Documents for your visa (US to EU)
Ensure that you have the following documents available in the original and, in most cases, with a certified translation:
✓ Personal documents: Valid US passport (must be valid for at least 3–6 months beyond the visa period), biometric passport photos (EU standard, not US standard), FBI background check (police clearance certificate with apostille), marriage/birth certificates (with apostille).
✓ Proof & finances: Employment contract or acceptance agreement from an EU employer, proof of financial means (bank statements from the last 3–6 months), proof of health insurance (EU-compliant), rental agreement or proof of accommodation in the destination country.
Common mistakes when applying for a visa to enter the EU – and how to avoid them
- Incorrect visa category: Many US citizens enter the country visa-free (90-day rule) and only realize once they are there that they would have needed a special visa for their specific activity (e.g., remote work for a US company).
- Missing apostilles: US documents (birth certificate, marriage certificate, FBI check) are often only recognized in the EU with a Hague apostille. A simple copy or certification is usually not sufficient.
- Inadequate health insurance: US insurance policies often do not cover the specific requirements of EU countries (e.g., unlimited coverage or minimum sums of €30,000).
- Underestimation of processing time: Even though US citizens can sometimes apply for the title in the destination country, overburdened immigration authorities often result in months of waiting without a work permit.
How DACHSER & KOLB supports you with visa setup for your move to the EU
Visa & Immigration Service
- Advice on residence permits: Support in choosing the right permit (e.g., EU Blue Card, work visa, or family reunification).
- Document management: Assistance in compiling the necessary documents, certificates, and evidence (e.g., for FBI background checks or apostilles).
- Navigating the authorities: Accompaniment and coordination of appointments at the local immigration office in Germany or other EU countries.
Advice on dealing with authorities & relocation
- Residence registration: Assistance with mandatory registration (registration certificate) after arrival.
- Bank account & taxes: Assistance with opening a European bank account and applying for a tax ID.
- Settling-in services: Support for the whole family, from finding a school to registering with utility companies (electricity, internet).
Global partner network
Through its membership in international networks (such as FIDI), DACHSER & KOLB offers personal contacts on site who are familiar with local laws, both in the USA (pickup) and in the EU (delivery and assistance with authorities).
Customs and logistics interface
- Customs clearance: DACHSER & KOLB takes care of the entire customs declaration process for your household goods as “relocation goods,” which is often only possible duty-free in conjunction with a valid visa or registration certificate.
- Document check: Advance check to ensure that your visa status complies with customs requirements for tax-free import.
Visas & Customs – Why your status is relevant for your household goods
Your visa status is relevant not only for your stay, but also for your wallet. Certain conditions must be met in order for your household goods to be imported duty-free as relocation goods:
- Duty exemption due to change of residence: You can only import furniture, vehicles, and personal belongings duty-free if you can prove that you are moving your normal residence to the EU (at least 12 months' prior residence in the USA).
- Proof of status: Customs often require proof of the visa issued or registration in the destination country in order to grant duty-free entry. Without this status, import duties and import sales tax (approx. 19-25% depending on the EU country) may be incurred.
- The 6-month rule: Items must generally have been in your possession in the US for at least 6 months prior to the move in order to be considered duty-free household goods. New goods are often taxable.
Legal notice
Important note: The information provided on this page is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Visa and customs regulations are subject to change at short notice and vary greatly between individual EU member states. We strongly recommend that you obtain official information from the relevant consulates or a specialist lawyer. A removal company can provide advice, but is not permitted to give legally binding visa advice.
FAQ – The most frequently asked questions about visas for moving to the EU/Germany
Do I have to apply for my visa in the USA?
US citizens can enter many EU countries (e.g., Germany) without a visa and apply for a residence permit within 90 days of arrival. For other countries (e.g., France or Spain), it is often mandatory to apply at the consulate in the US.
How much does a visa cost for moving to the EU?
The fees for long-term visas usually range between €75 and €150. In addition, there are costs for apostilles, translations, and the subsequent issuance of the physical residence card on site.
How long does it take to get a visa for the EU in the US?
The processing time varies between 2 and 12 weeks, depending on the consulate and visa type. US citizens who apply directly in the destination country often have to wait 3-6 months for the final card to be issued.
Can I move to the EU without a visa if I have a Green Card?
No. The Green Card only regulates your status in the USA. For the EU, the nationality stated in your passport is decisive.
Do I need an apostille for my US documents?
Yes, for official procedures in the EU (marriage, birth, visas), authorities almost always require an apostille from the Secretary of State of the respective US state.
What is an apostille and where can I obtain one?
The apostille certifies the authenticity of a document for use abroad. You can obtain this from the Secretary of State of the state in which the document was issued.
How does health insurance work for US expatriates?
US insurance (including Medicare) is generally not recognized in Germany. You must either take out statutory insurance (for employees) or private health insurance that is recognized in Germany.
Why DACHSER & KOLB is the right choice
Personalized consultation
Detailed needs analysis for customized relocation solutions.
Relocation planning from A to Z
Complete relocation planning: from packing to unloading, all from a single source.
Reliable network
Global network for secure, seamless transport.
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Sabrina Klier
Customer Service & Sales - AIR & SEA
