What You Need to Know When You’re Moving to Duesseldorf

Relocating to Duesseldorf

About the City

Situated in the heart of the Lower Rhine Basin on the eastern banks of the River Rhine, Duesseldorf is the capital city of the German North Rhine Westphalia state. With an expansive population of 11 million people, this diverse metropolis is the seventh most densely populated region in Germany. The city has gained worldwide recognition as one of the most significant industrial and financial centers, with a long history of fashion and textiles production, and Duesseldorf is one of the fashion and arts fare capitals of Europe.

For decades, the city has been a huge draw for foreigners. Today, an estimated 110,000 of Duesseldorf’s population are expats, most of whom have moved from other European countries. Most expatriates hail from Turkey, Greece and Poland, however, the city is also home to the third largest community of Japanese residents in Europe.

Visas for Germany

Citizens of the European Union, the USA, Australia, Canada, Israel, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, and South Korea are free to relocate to Germany to seek permanent residency and employment without the need for a visa. Residents from different nations must obtain a permanent residency or a working visa. In order to be supplied with a long stay visa, the potential expat must supply the German Aliens Office with two accurately filled out visa application forms, a valid passport, an employment contract letter or letter of invitation from a company within the country and a visa fee of 60EUR. Non EU nationals seeking a German work permit can choose from either a general employment, specialist professional or self-employed permit. Once the relevant documents have been submitted to the German embassy, one of these may be issued.

Finding Accommodation

Duesseldorf is considered to be one of the best places in Germany to live. Thanks to its prime location with easy access to business districts, impressive architecture and affordable property prices, many people choose to relocate to the family homes, luxurious town houses and apartments of the city.

Each region of Duesseldorf has its own unique qualities and offers residents something different. Stadtmitte is a vibrant, artistic part of town that is popular with singles and young people due to its lively nightlife. This part of the city has many stylish apartments for rent or purchase. The part of Düsseldorf with the largest number of foreigners is Bilk. This area is very popular with expats, thanks in part to its close proximity to Duesseldorf University. Bilk offers many picturesque properties situated on the tree lined streets along the central canal. Oberkassel is best known for its art deco architecture, this district attracts a large number of property developers and is the most expensive part of the city to live.

Finding a place to rent or buy is simple and straightforward in Duesseldorf. English language sites such as HomeCompany and BlueHomes make it easy for expats to find their perfect property abroad.