Best Golden Visa Lawyers in Aurich

About Golden Visa Law in Aurich, Germany

The term Golden Visa is commonly used to describe residence permits granted in return for investment or business activity. In Germany - including Aurich in Lower Saxony - there is no single nationwide "Golden Visa" program like in some other countries. Instead, non-EU nationals can obtain residence permits through existing immigration rules for self-employment, investment, highly qualified employment or the EU Blue Card. Local authorities - primarily the Auslanderbehoerde at Landkreis Aurich - implement the national rules in practice. Applicants seeking residence based on economic activity must meet the legal criteria set out in the German Residence Act and related regulations, and must satisfy municipal and federal requirements such as business registration, tax registration, and proof of financing.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Immigration and investment matters often involve complex interactions between federal law, local practice and tax obligations. You may need a lawyer - a Rechtsanwalt experienced in Aufenthaltsrecht or administrative law - in situations such as:

- Preparing and structuring a business case or investment to meet the legal thresholds for a residence permit for self-employment or investment.

- Interpreting the Residence Act and local Auslanderbehoerde requirements to maximize chances of approval.

- Drafting or reviewing shareholder agreements, contracts, or company formation documents to ensure compliance with commercial and immigration law.

- Representing you at interviews with the Auslanderbehoerde or in administrative appeals if an application is refused.

- Coordinating with tax advisors and notaries on tax planning, trade registration and corporate governance.

- Advising on family reunification, social security, and long-term residency options.

Local Laws Overview

Key legal and administrative points that are especially relevant in Aurich include:

- Residence Act (Aufenthaltsgesetz) and implementing regulations - these set the legal basis for residence permits for self-employment, investors and workers.

- Residence permit for self-employment (section 21 AufenthG) - a permit may be granted if the planned business is expected to have positive economic effects, meet a regional demand and be financed by secure capital. Local authorities assess viability and regional interest.

- EU Blue Card and work-based permits - available to highly qualified specialists who meet salary and qualification thresholds established under federal rules.

- Commercial and trade law - company formation, registration at the Gewerbeamt and possibly entry in the Handelsregister must follow German commercial law and local municipal procedures.

- Tax law - registration with the Finanzamt, VAT obligations, income tax and corporate tax responsibilities apply from the moment business activity begins.

- Building and planning law - investments involving real estate, new construction or material changes to property require compliance with Baugesetzbuch and local planning regulations administered by the Bauamt.

- Local authorities involved - Landkreis Aurich Auslanderbehoerde handles residence permits; the Gewerbeamt deals with trade registration; Finanzamt Aurich handles tax matters; IHK Ostfriesland und Papenburg provides business support and certificates of regional economic interest.

- Important limitation - purchasing property in Germany does not automatically entitle a non-EU national to a residence permit. Residence must be based on one of the legal categories under the Residence Act.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Golden Visa in Germany and does Aurich offer a specific program?

Germany does not operate a dedicated Golden Visa program in the way some countries do. Aurich follows federal immigration law. Residence based on investment is handled through existing categories such as the residence permit for self-employment or work-based permits. Local authorities evaluate applications under the same national rules.

Can I get German residency by buying property in Aurich?

No - property ownership by itself does not grant a residence permit. To obtain residency you must qualify under a relevant legal category such as self-employment, highly-qualified employee status or family reunification. Real estate can support a business plan, but it is not a standalone basis for residency.

What are the basic requirements for a residence permit for self-employment or investment?

Authorities typically require a credible business plan, proof of financing, evidence that the project serves an economic interest or regional need, and that the applicant has sufficient means to support themselves. The Auslanderbehoerde will also look at professional qualifications and the expected local economic benefit.

How do I apply - do I start in Aurich or at a German consulate abroad?

If you are outside Germany you usually apply for a national visa at the German embassy or consulate in your home country. After entry, you register with the Auslanderbehoerde in Aurich to convert the visa into a residence permit. If you are already in Germany legally, you may apply directly with the local Auslanderbehoerde.

How long does the process usually take?

Processing times vary depending on complexity, the need for additional checks and workload at authorities. Straightforward work permits may be processed faster, while business-based applications that require economic assessments and consultations can take several weeks to a few months. Expect longer timelines if additional documentation or expert assessments are required.

Can my family join me if I obtain residency through investment or self-employment?

Family reunification is often possible for spouses and minor children, but rules differ depending on the type of permit. Requirements may include sufficient living space, proof of income or means, and, in some cases, minimum language skills for family members. Always check the specific family reunification conditions applicable to your permit type.

Will I have tax obligations in Germany if I get residency in Aurich?

Yes. Becoming a resident for tax purposes generally triggers income tax obligations in Germany. If you run a business or earn income in Germany, you must register with the Finanzamt, file tax returns and comply with VAT and payroll tax rules. Consult a Steuerberater (tax advisor) early in the process.

Can a lawyer help if my application is refused?

Yes. A lawyer with experience in Aufenthaltsrecht can advise on grounds for refusal, prepare appeals or legal challenges, and represent you before administrative courts. Time limits for appeals are strict, so seek legal advice promptly after a refusal.

What local documents and registrations will I need in Aurich?

Typical local requirements include registration of your residence (Anmeldung) at the Einwohnermeldeamt, trade registration at the Gewerbeamt if you operate a business, registration with the Finanzamt, and enrolment with social security institutions if you employ staff or draw a salary. Depending on the activity, municipal permits or building approvals may also be required.

How can I find a reliable lawyer or advisor in Aurich?

Seek a Rechtsanwalt experienced in immigration or administrative law and familiar with business matters. Look for recommendations from the local IHK, ask for references and check areas of expertise. Also consider working with a Steuerberater for taxes and a notary for company formation documents. Arrange an initial consultation to discuss experience, fees and strategy.

Additional Resources

Organizations and authorities you may contact or research when seeking legal advice in Aurich include:

- Landkreis Aurich - Auslanderbehoerde - local authority responsible for residence permits.

- Gewerbeamt Aurich - trade office for business registration.

- Finanzamt Aurich - local tax office for tax registration and guidance.

- Industrie- und Handelskammer Ostfriesland und Papenburg - chamber of commerce offering business information and regional statements about economic interest.

- Bundesamt fuer Migration und Flüchtlinge - federal office that provides information about immigration law and national procedures.

- Local Rechtsanwaelte specialising in Aufenthaltsrecht, Verwaltungsrecht or commercial law and Steuerberater for tax matters.

Next Steps

If you need legal assistance for a Golden Visa style application in Aurich follow these practical steps:

- Gather basic documents - passport, CV, business plan outline, proof of funds, and any professional qualifications or company documentation.

- Schedule an initial consultation with a lawyer experienced in German immigration and business law. Ask about their experience with self-employment and investor cases and request a clear fee estimate.

- Contact the Auslanderbehoerde in Aurich for information about local procedural steps and required documents. Confirm whether your intended activity needs additional municipal permits.

- Consult a Steuerberater to understand tax implications and to prepare for tax registration and compliance.

- Prepare and translate any foreign documents into German by a sworn translator if required. Keep certified copies of all documents.

- File the visa application at the German mission abroad if you are outside Germany, or submit the residence application to the Auslanderbehoerde if you are already in Germany. Stay proactive in providing additional information requested by authorities.

- If there is a refusal or delay, consult your lawyer about administrative appeal options and timelines.

Taking these steps will help you navigate the local requirements in Aurich and present the strongest possible case for obtaining a residence permit based on investment or business activity.