WelcomeInnovation: EU or European residents

MUST-HAVE

Other countries other manners. Here is an overview of the
most important facts for a smooth start in our region.

Visa/Entry Documentation

As a citizen of the EU and EEA (European Economic Area) and nationals of Switzerland, you do not need a visa if you wish to travel to Germany and work. Your family members also do not require a visa or residence permit to travel to Germany or work there.
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Social insurance

The statutory social insurance in Germany is the most important institution of social security. It is a system of provision, which is based on the principle of solidarity. Social insurance has the task of maintaining the living standard of the people insured in situations where their livelihood is at risk. In principle all employees are obliged to be members of the social insurance system up to a certain level of income.
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Giro account

If you would like to live, reside and work in Germany, then you must have a giro account. You will need this for cashless payment transactions, for example to receive your wages, pay your rent or settle invoices (telephone, Internet, etc.). Without your own giro account, it is usually not possible to sign a contract of employment or lease.
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BASIC INFORMATION

Customs

As a citizen of the EU or EEA, you can bring your private household possessions with you without any customs formalities. You can read what is considered part of your private household possessions on the website of the customs authority.
Customs provisions >>
Travel & residence

As an EU, EEA citizen or national of Switzerland, you have unlimited access to the German labour market. You do not need a residence permit to enter the country or to start work. However, you do need a valid identity card or passport.
Information on the obligation to register >>
Driving licence

For citizens of the UE and EEA, a driving licence is valid in Germany without any restrictions. You do not need to have it registered or transcribed. You do not necessarily need a driving licence to travel around the Ingolstadt region. Trains, buses or bicycles are fast, affordable alternatives to having a car.
Mobile in the region >>
Dual education system

You do not necessarily need to study at a university to have a career in the Ingolstadt region. The dual education/training system in Germany offers the opportunity for professional training without a qualification from a university. Education/training under the dual system takes place at two teaching centres, the company and the vocational school and provides both practical as well as theoretical knowledge of the relevant profession.
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Business start-ups

Do you have an innovative idea, a coherent concept and would like to take the step towards becoming self-employed? Then in addition to a financial cushion and patience, you primarily need good advice. In the Ingolstadt region there are many institutions, which will support you in establishing yourself by providing help and advice.
Useful information >>
Employment service

Of course it’s best if you already have a contract of employment in your pocket. However, if you are looking for suitable work, you can either use various job portals on the Internet or go to the responsible Employment Agency or to a job centre in our region.
Offers and services >>

Some differences

Germany is a free democratic and social country.
But there are special cultural customs apply here, which you should know.
Insurance, taxes, social interaction ...
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