As a prime location with easy access to business districts and affordable real estate, Düsseldorf is one of the most popular places for expats to move to.
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Living in Düsseldorf
Located in the heart of the Lower Rhine, on the east bank of the river, Düsseldorf is the capital of the German state of North Rhine-Westphalia. With a population of 11 million people, this diverse metropolis is the seventh most densely populated region in Germany. The city has gained global recognition as one of the most important industrial and financial centers, with a long history of fashion and textile production, and Düsseldorf is one of Europe’s fashion and art capitals.
For decades, the city has attracted many foreigners. Today, an estimated 110,000 residents of Düsseldorf are expats, most of whom have moved from other European countries. Most expats come from Turkey, Greece and Poland, but the city is also home to the third largest community of Japanese residents in Europe.
Visas to Germany
Citizens of the European Union, the United States, Australia, Canada, Israel, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, and South Korea can move freely to Germany to seek permanent residence and employment without a visa. Residents from other countries must obtain a permanent residency visa or a work visa. To obtain a long-term residence visa, prospective expats must provide the German Foreigners Office with two accurately completed visa application forms, a valid passport, a letter of employment contract or letter of invitation from a company in the country, and a visa fee of 60 euros. Non-EU citizens applying for a German work permit can choose between a general work permit, a specialized professional permit or a self-employment permit. After submitting the appropriate documents to the German embassy, one of these can be issued.
Accommodation in Düsseldorf
Düsseldorf is considered one of the best places to live in Germany. Thanks to its prime location with easy access to business districts, impressive architecture and affordable real estate prices, many people choose to move into family homes, luxury townhouses and apartments in this city.
Each region of Düsseldorf has its own unique characteristics and offers residents something different. Stadtmitte is a vibrant, artistic part of the city that is popular with singles and young people because of its nightlife. There are many stylish apartments to rent or buy in this part of the city. The part of Düsseldorf with the highest number of foreigners is Bilk. This area is very popular with expats, thanks in part to its proximity to Düsseldorf University. Bilk offers many picturesque properties located on tree-lined streets along the central canal. Oberkassel is best known for its art deco architecture, the district attracts many developers and is the most expensive part of the city to live in.
Moving to Düsseldorf
Finding an apartment to rent or buy is easy in Düsseldorf. English-language sites like HomeCompany and BlueHomes make it easy for expats to find the perfect property abroad.
Whether you are moving abroad for the first time or have been there many times before, the process raises many questions. Our complete moving blog will clear your doubts from initial preparations to negotiating your relocation package.
