How to live legally in Germany in 2025

With the changes in migration policies and the implementation of new digital systems, the process has become more transparent and efficient. If you're considering this change, you need to know the legal routes available and how each one works in practice.

The current scenario is particularly favorable for those seeking to establish residence through education. Germany recognizes that international students often become valuable professionals for its economy.

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Student visa: work allowed from the start

With a university acceptance letter, you obtain the student visa that allows you to work up to 280 days a year part-time or 140 days full-time. This flexibility is crucial for those who plan to support themselves partially through work during their studies.

The necessary documentation is direct: high school certificate, proof of language proficiency (German or English, depending on the course), motivation letter, CV and passport. The difference is in the blocked account of approximately €909 per month, which acts as a financial guarantee and is gradually released for your expenses.

What many don't know is that this visa has an approval rate of around 95% when the documentation is complete. It is one of the safest routes to establish legal residence in the country, especially for those who already have previous academic or professional experience.

For those seeking study and work in Germany, this modality offers the best balance between legal certainty and professional flexibility.

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Applicant visa: nine months to get organized

If you do not yet have the definitive letter of acceptance but have already started applications or are in correspondence with German universities, there is a student candidate visa. With a maximum validity of nine months, it allows you to be in the country during the selection process.

The limitation is clear: it does not allow working. But it offers something valuable - time to get to know the academic environment, participate in face-to-face processes and, above all, convert for a student visa without leaving Germany once accepted at the university.

For those who are transitioning between programs or waiting for the results of multiple applications, this modality offers strategic flexibility in planning the change.

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Ausbildung: paid technical training

The program Ausbildung represents an interesting alternative for those seeking technical training with immediate compensation. You must have a guaranteed vacancy in a company that offers professional training, but the counterpart is to receive a salary from day one.

Language requirements are more flexible, ranging from level A2 to B1 depending on the area. Sectors such as health, technology, and engineering have a growing demand for professionals trained through this system, which combines academic theory with intensive practical experience.

It is a particularly attractive route for those who already have technical training in Brazil and want to specialize it according to German standards, with the advantage of being inserted in the labor market from the start.

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Documentation: What You Really Need

The documentary process is simpler than it seems, but it requires organization. For any type of visa, you will need:

Basic documents:

• Completed application form
• Valid passport with copies of the data pages
• Recent biometric photographs
• Proof of residence in Brazil

Specific documents by type of visa:

• Proof of university application or acceptance
• Blocked account or equivalent financial proof
• Updated CV
• Preliminary health insurance (initial three months)
• Language certifications or proof of intent to take a language course
• Previous academic certificates

Early preparation is the key. Brazilian documents need to be apostilled, and certified translations may take a few weeks to complete.

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Embassy process: times and expectations

Even with the online portal, you still have to attend the German embassy for an in-person interview. Scheduling must be made through official websites, and waiting times vary according to the time of year and regional demand.

The processing typically takes 2 to 3 months and may extend up to 12 weeks in more complex cases. Complete and well-organized documentation significantly speeds up the process and reduces chances of additional document requests.

During the interview, be objective about your academic and professional plans. Demonstrating knowledge about the chosen program and clarity about your future goals in Germany strengthens your application.

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Alternative strategy: application within Germany

Brazilians can enter as tourists and apply for a residence permit directly in the country. While legally possible, this approach requires even more careful preparation and is not recommended as a first option.

The advantage is to be present to resolve documentary issues or participate in processes that arise during the request. The downside is the legal risk involved if something goes wrong during the process.

For those considering this alternative, it is essential to have all documentation prepared in advance and, ideally, specialized advice to navigate local procedures.

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Actual cost of living in Germany

The blocked account of €909 a month is not arbitrary. It represents a realistic estimate of basic living costs in the country, especially in cities with the best cost-benefit ratio.

Typical monthly distribution:

• Housing: €300-600 (smaller cities) to €500-900 (large centers)
• Food: €200-300
• Shipping: €60-90
• Health insurance: €80-120 (students)
• Personal expenses: €100-200

With a work permit during their studies, many are able to partially or fully cover these costs. The German market offers interesting opportunities for students, especially in sectors such as technology, hospitality, and services.

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Postgraduate Perspectives: Pathway to Permanent Residency

Completing studies in Germany offers significant advantages for permanent establishment. Graduates have the right to spend 18 months looking for qualified work in their area of training and this period is much more strategic than it seems.

During those 18 months, you can work any job to support yourself while looking for a qualified position. Once employed with a minimum wage of €56,400 annually (or €43,992 for in-demand areas such as IT and engineering), you can apply for Blue Card EU.

The path is direct:

• EU Blue Card valid for up to 4 years (renewable)
• After 33 months with Blue Card, you can apply for permanent residence
• With German level B1, this period reduces to just 21 months
• Permanent residence guarantees the same rights as German citizens

If your salary does not reach the Blue Card minimum, the regular residence permit allows you to apply for permanent residence after 5 years of legal residence.

For technology professionals, the prospects are even better, with specific paths for IT careers that take advantage of the growing demand of the German market. Around 60% of international students who graduate from Germany remain in the country for at least 5 years after graduation.

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Be Easy: navigating the process safely

The German visa process has its peculiarities, but with proper guidance it becomes perfectly manageable. Na Be Easy, we offer specialized advice ranging from choosing the ideal program to following up during the first months in Germany. Our experience with hundreds of cases allows us to anticipate challenges and prepare solutions before they become problems. Contact us to find out how to transform your planning to move to Germany into a solid and well-executed strategy.