Significant Visa and Work and Residence Permit Processing and Appointment Delays
August 28, 2015

Germany
While the German government deploys resources to aid increasing numbers of asylum seekers, foreign nationals with pending immigration appointments, pending applications filed with immigration offices, pending family reunion visas and work visa applications that require immigration office approval in Germany may experience delays up to several weeks.
Visa-exempt nationals, such as those from Australia, Israel and the United States, who can apply for a work and residence permit in Germany without an entry visa, should consider applying abroad for an entry work visa, which can be converted into a work permit after arrival in Germany. This way, the foreign national will not need to attend an appointment immediately upon arrival in Germany and will be able to work immediately upon arrival.
What This Means for Employers and Foreign Nationals
Employers and foreign nationals should account for significant processing and appointment delays in Germany, which could delay start dates and travel plans.
This alert is for informational purposes only. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact the global immigration professional with whom you work at Fragomen or send an email to [email protected].
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