Friday, August 15, 2014

Does German law allow dual citizenship?

No, Germany doesn't allows dual citizenship. Germany disapproves of dual citizenship, but it cannot completely prevent and restrict it, especially in cases where only one parent is German and the other is foreigner. By this, the child receives two different citizenship at the time of his birth. In such cases, both citizenship will hold equal standing and no one will be forced to give up his or her citizenship. However in case of naturalization, Germany requires the foreigner to give up his or her original citizenship in order to obtain a German passport. 

Is there any chance to obtain German citizenship for someone without German ancestors?

Yes, you can get German citizenship by utilizing the option of ius soli, that means by adopting a German citizen and through naturalization. Please note and keep in mind that German citizenship cannot be obtained by marrying a German citizen, although this can increase your chances of naturalization.

Can I move freely within the European Union as the holder of an EU Blue Card?

Yes, EuBlue Card holders can move freely and visit different Schengen states for a visa free period of 90 days in every half year. 

Is the Blue Card restricted to specific occupational groups?

No, there is no exclusion of EuBlue Card for any specific occupational groups while the applicant must a proper contract or employment. Along with that you should hold an appropriate university degree to apply for a job or to work in Germany. 

What level of language skills needs to be proven in order to obtain the EU Blue Card?

No, you will not required tp show any proof of your German language in order to obtain EuBlue Card. On the other hand, applicants who have ability to speak German or can show an adequate and proper proof of having German language skills then their waiting period will be reduced from 33 months to 21 months.

Is it possible to obtain a EuBlue Card without a university degree but based on completed vocational training?

No, this is currently not yet possible to get EU Blue Card without having a proper university degree. The Federal Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs has not yet adopted any policy regarding this and the applicants should have equivalent university based on Section 19a, sub-section 1, letter b of the German Residence Act

What preconditions need to be met in order for an EUBlue Card to be issued?

1.     Applicants have to provide a proof that they have a completed university degree. In case, If the university degree was not awarded in Germany then it must be equivalent to a German university degree.
2.      Applicants will be required to provide proof of their employment offer or will be required to show an employment contract that has been signed or that already exists.

3.     This offer or contract must be based on a minimum gross annual salary

My visa will expire during my stay in Germany, what do I have to do?

You have to apply for new visa before the expiration of your visa because without that you will not be able to visit or travel in any Schengen states. In case if you have any emergency such as medical treatment then you have to contact the authorities (Ausländerbehörde)   so that they can extend your visa before it expires.  You should avoid to stay further if your visa has expired because it is illegal and you will be fined or will not be allowed to visit Germany in future. 

Friday, August 8, 2014

Which qualification do I need to show while applying for PhD in Germany?

You have to show degree from an institute or university that is important for the eligibility of PhD and that  degree should be equivalent to the degree of German university where you will apply for your PhD program. However equivalency will be decided by the German university that you have selected.

Can I study in Germany in English language?

Yes, you can study in Germany in English language. There are many institutes and universities in Germany that offer various courses in English language specifically for student who don't understand and speak German but there are also some courses that will be offered in German language as well.

Is there free access to internet and libraries for my studies?

Yes, you can avail free internet access from your educational institutes and for that you have to sign up for the email accounts as per their policies. Along with that you can also read many titles from libraries as the libraries are filled with lot of stock of books.

Do I have to open a bank account in Germany?

Yes, you will be required to open a bank account if you have to stay more than three months in Germany so that you can easily pay the expenses such as if you have rent a flat or you have applied for insurance then you payments will be made through cash cards preferably although your credit card will also be helpful in paying money.

Can I bring my spouse and children with me while I am studying over there?

Yes, you can bring your family along with you if your study period is more than one year but you have to provide full financial support to your family while your studies.

Will I be liable to pay taxes in Germany?

It depends on your monthly income as well as the time period for your stay in Germany. If your manothly income is less than  €450 or your stay period in Germany is less than six months then you will be exempted from paying taxes. If you have paid taxes and your yearly income is less than  €8,130 then the amount will be refunded back to you.  

Will I be allowed to work while studying in Germany?

Yes, you can continue your studies and work simultaneously. Any foreign students is allowed to work while studying. They can work for full 120 days in a year and in case of part time job, students can work for half 240 days.