Which situation fits me?
You do not need a visa or a residence permit. Poland is an EU member state. Your right to live in Germany comes from EU law and the Freedom of Movement Act/EU (FreizügG/EU). Rules for non-EU citizens (visa, Blue Card, Opportunity Card, work permit) do not apply to you; the Residence Act applies only where § 11 FreizügG/EU says so.
| You are | Start here |
|---|---|
| Employed in Berlin, or about to be | Working as an employee, Registration |
| Sent to Germany by your Polish employer | Posted workers |
| Self-employed or starting a business | Self-employed |
| Looking for work | Your rights (six months, then proof) |
| Nurse, doctor, craftsperson or other regulated profession | Recognition, Nursing and health |
| Student | Study |
| Apprentice or trainee | Ausbildung |
| Not working (pensioner, partner, carer) | Your rights (means and health insurance) |
| With a partner, children or other family | Family, Benefits and Kindergeld |
| Already in Berlin | After arrival checklist |
| Looking for advice in Polish, people or a job | Find your community |
| Worried about pay, housing or an agency | Workers' rights, Scams |
Three reality checks
- Free movement is not unconditional. After three months, the authorities may ask you to show that you meet a condition: work, self-employment, job search, study with means, or means plus health insurance (§ 5 (2) FreizügG/EU).
- Registration is compulsory, a permit is not. Register your address within two weeks: Registration.
- Nobody can sell you a right you already have. How to avoid scams.
A question this page does not answer? Contact us. Free orientation only, no legal advice for individual cases.