mannheim-visa-services
mannheim-visa-services
mannheim-visa-services
Potsdam Visa Services: Your Key to Successful Relocation!
Planning a move to Potsdam and need support with visa matters? This article provides you with a comprehensive overview of the necessary steps and points of contact. Learn more about our services and how we can assist you with your move. Contact us for personalised advice.
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Planning a move to Potsdam and need support with visa matters? This article provides you with a comprehensive overview of the necessary steps and points of contact. Learn more about our services and how we can assist you with your move. Contact us for personalised advice.
Planning a move to Potsdam and need support with visa matters? This article provides you with a comprehensive overview of the necessary steps and points of contact. Learn more about our services and how we can assist you with your move. Contact us for personalised advice.
Planning a move to Potsdam and need support with visa matters? This article provides you with a comprehensive overview of the necessary steps and points of contact. Learn more about our services and how we can assist you with your move. Contact us for personalised advice.
Simplify your move to Potsdam with our comprehensive information on visa services. Learn all about applications, extensions, and important deadlines.
Are you planning a move to Potsdam and need support with visa formalities? At GoMovin, we understand that organising an international move can be challenging, especially when it comes to complying with entry regulations. Therefore, we offer you comprehensive information and services on the subject of Potsdam Visa Services to make your relocation as stress-free as possible. With our expertise and global network, we support individuals, families, and businesses in international relocation. Learn more about our moving assistance.
Our aim is to provide you with a clear overview of the responsibilities of the various authorities in Potsdam and to assist you with the correct application and registration of your visa. We want to ensure that you understand all the necessary steps and take them in good time to avoid problems and legal consequences. Below, we give you a detailed insight into the different aspects of Visa Services in Potsdam, from the relevant offices to specific requirements for different groups of people.
Overview of the Authorities' Responsibilities in Potsdam
In Potsdam, various authorities are responsible for handling visa matters. It is important to know the areas of responsibility of each office in order to contact the right place:
Migration Office Potsdam: The Migration Office is your point of contact for residence permits, work permits, and study visas.
Foreigners Authority Potsdam: The Foreigners Authority handles cases of individuals who have entered with a valid visa and have registered at the Potsdam Citizens' Service.
Registry Office: The Registry Office is responsible for the registration and deregistration of your residence.
Importance of Correct Visa Application and Registration
The correct application and registration of your visa is crucial to avoid problems and legal consequences. Entering without the correct visa can lead to deportation and a re-entry ban. Failure to register within two weeks of your move to Potsdam can also result in fines. Be sure to inform yourself in good time about the necessary steps and deadlines to make your stay in Potsdam hassle-free. Further information on registration can be found on the City of Potsdam website.
At GoMovin, we are delighted to offer our expertise to support you with all questions concerning Potsdam Visa Services. Contact us for personal advice and let us plan your move to Potsdam together!
Residence permits: Extension for Ukrainians until 2026
The application and renewal of residence permits is a central aspect of Potsdam Visa Services. In particular, there are special regulations for Ukrainian refugees that allow for automatic extension of residence permits. However, it is also important for other groups to be aware of the applicable regulations and deadlines to ensure a smooth stay in Potsdam. We at GoMovin help you keep track of everything and initiate the necessary steps in good time. Learn more about our advisory services.
Extension of Residence Permits for Ukrainian Refugees
The Potsdam Immigration Office has announced that residence permits for Ukrainian refugees will be automatically extended until 4 March 2026 in accordance with § 24 Abs. 1 AufenthG, provided the permit was valid on 1 February 2025. This also applies to permits already extended until 4 March 2025. However, it is important to note that for permits issued after 1 February 2024 and expiring before 1 February 2025, a renewal application is required. Non-Ukrainian third-country nationals who fall under the protection status or have family ties to Ukrainians can also benefit from this regulation.
However, it is important to note that a change of purpose of stay from § 24 Abs. 1 AufenthG to certain study-related permits in accordance with § 19f Abs. 1 AufenthG is not possible. Persons needing to clarify their status should contact the foreigner authorities or BAMF to avoid possible deportation. The residence permit under § 24 AufenthG does not allow travel to other EU/Schengen countries after expiration. Appointments are required and can be requested by email with specific personal details and purpose information. The immigration office handles all matters related to non-German nationals, from entry to exit, including residence permits, work permits, and study permits. Online applications for residence permits are available.
General Information on Applying for and Renewing Residence Permits
For third-country nationals staying in Germany for more than three months, a residence title (residence permit) is required from the immigration office of their place of residence unless they already hold a long-term visa. Applications should be submitted six weeks before the expiration of the current visa or residence permit or within the first three months after arrival if visa-free entry was permitted. The application process usually involves two personal visits. The University of Potsdam provides support for doctoral candidates, postdocs, and visiting researchers in scheduling appointments with the Potsdam Immigration Office or the State Office for Immigration in Berlin. Due to high workloads, processing times of two to three months are to be expected. For highly qualified professionals, the different minimum annual gross salaries for the Blue Card depending on the profession and experience should be observed, with updated figures for 2025.
Specific Types of Visas and Their Requirements
There are various types of visas, each with specific requirements that need to be met. Here is an overview of some important types of visas:
Study Application Visa vs. Study Visa: It is important to distinguish between a visa for study application (for people awaiting admission or taking an entrance exam) and a visa for study purposes (for people with an admission offer). Tourist visas cannot be converted into student visas.
EU Blue Card for Highly Qualified Professionals: Note the minimum salary requirements for the EU Blue Card. The requirements may vary depending on the profession and experience.
We at GoMovin support you in selecting the right visa and fulfilling all necessary requirements. Contact us for individual advice!
Third-country nationals: Work permit limited to 140 days
Certain groups of people are subject to special regulations as part of the Potsdam Visa Services. This specifically concerns EU/EEA/Swiss citizens as well as third-country nationals wishing to study or work in Germany. At GoMovin, we inform you about the most important regulations and assist you in complying with all formalities. Benefit from our support in the application process.
Regulations for EU/EEA/Swiss Citizens
EU/EEA/Swiss citizens enjoy the right of free movement in Germany. This means that they are allowed to live and work in Germany without a visa or residence permit. However, it is important to register with the residents' registration office and, if necessary, apply for a freedom of movement certificate.
Information for Third-Country Nationals
Third-country nationals are subject to different regulations than EU/EEA/Swiss citizens. Here is an overview of some important aspects:
Work Permit Restrictions for Students: Generally, students from third countries are not allowed to work more than 140 full or 280 half days per year. If these limits are exceeded, coordination with the immigration office is required.
Blocked Account as Proof of Financial Means: International students are generally required to provide proof of a blocked account with a minimum annual amount to demonstrate their financial means for their stay in Germany.
The University of Applied Sciences Potsdam advises international students applying at the University to apply for a visa in good time and to understand the difference between a “Study Applicant Visa” (for those waiting for admission or needing to take an entrance exam) and a “Student Visa” (for those with an offer of admission). Tourist visas cannot be converted into student visas. A key component is proof of financial capability via a “blocked account” with an annual minimum deposit (currently €11,904, with monthly withdrawal limits of €992). The Foreign Office provides lists of approved providers. Students from non-EU/EEA/Switzerland with a residence permit are limited to 140 full or 280 half days of work per year and must coordinate with the immigration office if working as academic or student assistants beyond these limits. Those working more than 20 hours a week pay higher social security contributions. Registration with the residents' registration office within 14 days of moving into accommodation is mandatory and requires a landlord confirmation. For stays longer than 90 days, even nationals exempt from the visa requirement must apply for a residence permit at the immigration office.
At GoMovin, we support you in all matters related to the special regulations for particular groups. Contact us for personal advice!
Ausländerbehörde Potsdam-Mittelmark: Submit applications by post
The Ausländerbehörde Potsdam-Mittelmark plays an important role in the implementation of Potsdam Visa Services. It is crucial to understand the responsibilities and procedures of this authority to submit applications correctly and avoid unnecessary delays. At GoMovin, we provide information on the key aspects of the work of the Ausländerbehörde Potsdam-Mittelmark. Find more information on the authority's website.
Electronic Appointment Scheduling and Application Submission
The Ausländerbehörde Potsdam-Mittelmark relies on electronic appointment scheduling and application submission. It is important to note that applications must be submitted by post or email and not in person. This is for efficiency and aims to reduce waiting times. Ukrainian citizens with permits valid on 1 February 2024 will automatically receive an extension until 4 March 2025. EU/EEA/Swiss nationals enjoy freedom of movement rights.
Contact Options and Email Addresses
Separate email addresses are available for general inquiries and appointment arrangements. Use the designated email address for general inquiries to resolve your issue quickly and efficiently.
Availability of Application Forms
Application forms are available at the Ausländerbehörde but are not available online due to copyright reasons. You can collect the forms on-site or have them sent by post.
The Ausländerbehörde Potsdam processes residence permits and prioritizes electronic appointment scheduling. It is crucial that applications must be submitted by post or email and not in person. Ukrainian citizens with permits valid on 1 February 2024 will automatically receive an extension until 4 March 2025. EU/EEA/Swiss nationals enjoy freedom of movement rights. For general inquiries, contact the authority via a dedicated email address separate from the one for appointment scheduling. Application forms are available in person at the Ausländerbehörde due to copyright restrictions preventing online distribution.
At GoMovin, we support you in communicating with the Ausländerbehörde Potsdam-Mittelmark and help you compile all necessary documents. Contact us for personal consultation!
International Students: Welcome Center helps with administrative procedures
International students and researchers require special support for organising their stay in Potsdam. The Welcome Center Potsdam and the University of Applied Sciences Potsdam provide comprehensive information and advice on all questions related to visas, residence permits, and other formalities. We at GoMovin work closely with these institutions to offer you the best possible service. Find out more on the Welcome Center's website.
Welcome Center Potsdam
The Welcome Center Potsdam assists doctoral candidates, postdoctoral researchers, and visiting scholars with scheduling appointments at the Migration Office or the State Office for Immigration in Berlin. Take advantage of this service to make your bureaucratic processes as efficient as possible.
University of Applied Sciences Potsdam
The University of Applied Sciences Potsdam offers specialised information and advice for international students. Here, you will receive support for your visa application and the necessary documentation. The University of Applied Sciences Potsdam advises international students applying to the University of Applied Sciences Potsdam to timely arrange for a visa and to understand the difference between a 'visa for study application' (for those waiting for admission or needing to sit an entrance exam) and a 'study visa' (for those with an offer of admission). Tourist visas cannot be converted into student visas.
We at GoMovin support you in preparing for your studies or research stay in Potsdam, helping you complete all the necessary formalities. Contact us for personal advice!
IHK Potsdam: Detailed information needed in the invitation letter
There are also specific regulations for business travellers and invitations as part of the Potsdam Visa Services. The Potsdam Chamber of Commerce and Industry (IHK) plays an important role here, especially in issuing invitation letters. At GoMovin, we inform you about the requirements of the IHK Potsdam and support you in creating correct and complete invitation letters. Find more information on the IHK Potsdam website.
Requirements for Invitation Letters from IHK Potsdam
The IHK Potsdam requires two original signed invitation letters to certify the chamber membership, along with proof of signature (signature deposit) or a copy of the signer's ID card. The invitation letter must contain detailed information about the inviting company, the purpose of the journey, and the traveller's personal details. A declaration under §§ 66-68 of the Residence Act to cover potential costs must also be included.
Declaration of Commitment
For certain countries, such as Saudi Arabia, India, Bangladesh, Argentina, and Brazil, the IHK may be involved in the visa applications and require a signed application form from the company. For a Schengen visa, proof of travel health insurance is required. A formal declaration of commitment according to §§ 66-68 of the Residence Act, obtained from the immigration authorities, covers the potential costs of the foreign traveller and requires financial documents from the inviting company. This declaration cannot be replaced by travel insurance or a self-declaration in the invitation letter.
At GoMovin, we support you in creating invitation letters that meet the IHK Potsdam requirements and assist you in obtaining the necessary declaration of commitment. Contact us for a personal consultation!
Security with Visa cards: 3-D Secure for online payments
In addition to the formal aspects of Potsdam Visa Services, security when using Visa cards is also an important topic. Especially with online payments, you should pay attention to the necessary security precautions to protect yourself against fraud and misuse. At GoMovin, we inform you about the most important security measures and provide tips for safely handling your Visa cards. Learn more about Visa Secure.
Security for Online Payments with Visa Cards
Visa Secure and 3-D Secure are essential security standards for online payments with Visa cards. To use these standards, registration via the S-pushTAN or S-ID-Check app is required. The Mittelbrandenburgische Sparkasse (MBS) offers additional protection for online payments with Visa Secure. By registering for 3-D Secure via the S-pushTAN or S-ID-Check app, it is ensured that only you as the cardholder can authorize the payment. MBS emphasizes that neither the Sparkasse, retailers, nor card providers will ever ask for card details or passwords via email or phone.
Security Precautions When Using Credit Cards
To protect yourself from unauthorized access to your credit card, you should observe the following security precautions:
Never share your card details or passwords via email or phone.
Ensure secure internet connections (https) for online payments.
Regularly check your credit card statements for irregularities.
The Visa Gold Card from MBS offers additional security features such as Visa Secure (S-ID-Check app), a liability cap of €50 in case of unauthorized use after reporting loss, and the optional use of PIN for transactions. Contactless payments are also supported, including Apple Pay and the 'Mobile Payments' app for Android.
At GoMovin, we place great importance on your security and support you with all questions regarding the safe use of your Visa cards. Contact us for personal advice!
GoMovin: Your partner for stress-free relocation to Potsdam
Organising an international move is complex and time-consuming. With GoMovin, you have an experienced partner by your side to support you at every step—from visa applications to finding accommodation. We offer an all-in-one solution for international moves with personal advice, legal assistance, property services, and cultural integration. Our relocation assistance makes your move to Potsdam stress-free, efficient, and personalised.
Our comprehensive service includes:
Personal Advice: We take the time to understand your individual needs and wishes and to develop a tailored relocation strategy.
Legal Support: We assist you with all questions regarding visas, residence permits, and other legal formalities.
Property Services: We help you find suitable accommodation or a house in Potsdam.
With GoMovin, you can relax and look forward to your new life in Potsdam. We'll take care of the rest!
MBS offers various credit cards, including the Visa Gold Card, which provides a combination of travel insurance benefits, worldwide cash access, and security features. Key details include the annual fee (€84, reduced to €40 with an MBS inclusive account), free international cash withdrawals (although third-party fees may apply), and a comprehensive travel insurance package that covers the entire family, regardless of card usage. Security is enhanced through Visa Secure (S-ID-Check App), a €50 liability cap for unauthorised use after loss reporting, and optional PIN use for transactions. Contactless payment is supported, including Apple Pay and the "Mobiles Bezahlen" app for Android.
We at GoMovin are your reliable partner for a successful start in Potsdam. Contact us today for a no-obligation consultation!
Secure Visa services in Potsdam now and move with ease!
A move to Potsdam can be exciting, but organising the visa formalities can quickly become a burden. With GoMovin, you have an experienced partner by your side to support you every step of the way and relieve you of the burden. We offer you comprehensive Potsdam Visa Services to ensure your move is smooth and stress-free.
At GoMovin, we understand that every move is unique. That's why we offer you personalised advice tailored to your individual needs and desires. We take the time to answer your questions and provide you with all the necessary information. With our expertise and global network, we ensure your move to Potsdam is a complete success.
Simplify your move to Potsdam with our comprehensive information on visa services. Discover everything about applications, extensions, and important deadlines. Applying correctly and registering your visa is crucial to avoid problems and legal consequences. Entering without the correct visa can lead to deportation and a re-entry ban. Missing registration within two weeks of your move to Potsdam can also result in fines.
We at GoMovin offer you comprehensive advice and support in choosing the right visa services, meeting technical requirements, navigating the application process, and avoiding potential issues.
Now is the perfect time to explore your moving options. Contact us today to start your personal consultation and plan your move quickly and effortlessly.
Further useful links
The City of Potsdam offers information on the services of the immigration office and registration.
The Potsdam Migration Office provides information on the automatic extension of residence permits for Ukrainian refugees.
The University of Potsdam supports international researchers and doctoral candidates in scheduling appointments with the migration office.
The Potsdam University of Applied Sciences provides international students with information on visa regulations and financial requirements.
The Potsdam-Mittelmark Immigration Office provides information on electronic appointment scheduling and application submission.
The Potsdam Chamber of Commerce and Industry informs about the requirements for invitation letters for business travellers.
The Mittelbrandenburgische Sparkasse offers information on Visa Secure and secure online payments.
The Mittelbrandenburgische Sparkasse offers the Visa Gold Card with additional security features and travel insurance benefits.
FAQ
Which authorities in Potsdam are responsible for visa matters?
In Potsdam, the Migration Office (residence permits, work permits, study visas), the Foreigners' Registration Office (for individuals with a valid visa and registration at the Citizen Service), and the Resident Registration Office (registration and deregistration of residence) are responsible.
How long does it take to process a visa in Potsdam?
Processing times may vary. The University of Potsdam notes that due to high workloads, it can take two to three months. It is advisable to apply early.
What happens if I don't register in Potsdam on time?
Failing to register within two weeks of moving to Potsdam can lead to fines. Therefore, promptly register at the Resident Registration Office.
Do Ukrainian refugees need to apply for an extension of their residency permit?
Ukrainian citizens with permits valid on 1 February 2024 will automatically receive an extension until 4 March 2025. Permits issued after 1 February 2024 and expiring before 1 February 2025 require an application for extension.
Where can I find application forms for the Foreigners' Registration Office Potsdam-Mittelmark?
Application forms are available at the Foreigners' Registration Office Potsdam-Mittelmark, but not online for copyright reasons. You can collect the forms on-site or have them sent by post.
What role does the IHK Potsdam play in visa invitations for business travellers?
The IHK Potsdam certifies invitation letters for business travellers and requires detailed information about the inviting company, the reason for travel, and the traveller's personal details. A declaration of commitment in accordance with Sections 66-68 of the Residence Act may be required.
What is Visa Secure and how does it protect my online payments?
Visa Secure (3-D Secure) is a security standard for online payments with Visa cards. Registration via the S-pushTAN or S-ID-Check App is required to authorise the payment and protect against fraud.
Where can international students in Potsdam find support with visa issues?
The Welcome Center Potsdam and the University of Applied Sciences Potsdam offer comprehensive information and advice on all questions regarding visas, residence permits, and other formalities for international students and researchers.
