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Golden Visa Partners

2026 Program Guide

Germany Golden Visa & Residence Permit

Germany does not have a classic 'investment residency' (golden visa) program. Residence is granted through self-employment (freelance/entrepreneur permit), the EU Blue Card (qualified employment), the Opportunity Card (Chancenkarte, a points-based job search visa launched in 2024), and work permits. Direct passive investment residency cannot be purchased.

Last updated: 2026-07-07 · Reviewed by: Burak Ünal

At a glance

Golden visa
None
Entrepreneur / self-employed
Viable business plan
EU Blue Card
Qualified employment + salary threshold
Opportunity Card (2024)
Points-based job search
Citizenship
5 years (2024 reform)

Who is it for?

  • Entrepreneurs looking to establish an innovative business in Germany.
  • Qualified professionals (EU Blue Card).
  • Skilled job seekers (Opportunity Card).
  • Families wanting to live in the EU's largest economy.

No Golden Visa, But Alternatives Exist

Germany does not sell residence for money; instead, it focuses on routes that contribute to the economy. The entrepreneur/self-employment permit requires a viable business idea; the EU Blue Card is for qualified employees meeting a certain salary threshold; and the Opportunity Card, launched in 2024, allows a points-based entry to Germany to search for a job.

The 2024 Citizenship Reform

Germany relaxed its citizenship rules in 2024: the general residence period was reduced from eight years to five, and dual citizenship is now generally permitted. This is a significant advantage for those planning long-term settlement.

Benefits

  • The EU's largest economy and a strong job market.
  • High-quality healthcare and education system.
  • Citizenship after 5 years and dual citizenship under the 2024 reform.
  • Family members can be included.

Requirements

  • A profile suited to the chosen visa category (business plan, employment, or qualifications).
  • Proof of subsistence and health insurance.
  • Clean criminal record.

Costs

Fixed investment threshold
None (varies by category)
Application and visa fees
Apply separately

Process

  1. Category selection

    Determining the residence route best suited to your profile.

  2. Document preparation

    Preparing business plan, employment, or qualification documents.

  3. Visa application

    Applying under the relevant category.

  4. Residence

    Obtaining the residence permit after approval.

FAQ

Does Germany have a golden visa?
No. Direct residence through investment cannot be purchased in Germany; residence is obtained through business establishment, qualifications, or employment.
Is residence through investment possible?
Indirectly, yes: residence can be obtained by establishing a genuine business in Germany (entrepreneur/self-employment permit).
When can I apply for citizenship?
Under the 2024 reform, the general period was reduced to 5 years, and dual citizenship is permitted.
Can I include my family?
Yes. A spouse and dependent children can be included in the residence permit.

Sources

Disclaimer: Golden Visa Partners is an investment and immigration advisory firm; it does not provide legal or attorney services. The investment amounts, timelines and program conditions on this page are for general guidance only and, because regulations change quickly, may be out of date. Before making any decision, we recommend consulting current official sources and obtaining independent legal and financial advice.

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