German & EU Cross-Border Legal Research
AskEULaw helps individuals and businesses navigate German civil law, EU regulations, and the intersection of both. Whether you are buying property in Germany as a foreigner, relocating for work, or resolving a cross-border inheritance, our AI legal research assistant draws on 23 curated documents covering the BGB, residence law, employment, family law, tax, and more.
Key Legal Topics
Buying Property in Germany as a Non-Resident
German property law requires notarial deeds for all real estate transfers. EU citizens face no restrictions; non-EU nationals may purchase freely but must satisfy anti-money-laundering due diligence. Transfer tax (Grunderwerbsteuer) ranges from 3.5% to 6.5% depending on the state.
Residence Permits & Visa for Germany
EU/EEA nationals have the right of free movement and may register residence without a permit. Third-country nationals typically require a Niederlassungserlaubnis or specific visa. The EU Blue Card is available for highly-qualified workers meeting salary thresholds.
Employment Law in Germany
German employment law is highly protective of employees. Dismissal protection (Kündigungsschutz) applies after six months in companies with more than ten employees. Minimum wage (Mindestlohn) is set annually by the Mindestlohnkommission.
Cross-Border Inheritance (Germany–EU)
EU Succession Regulation 650/2012 determines which country's law applies to a cross-border estate. You may elect the law of your nationality. German Erbschaftsteuer (inheritance tax) applies to German assets and to worldwide assets of German tax residents.
Family Law & Divorce
German family courts apply German law to marriages where both spouses are habitually resident in Germany. International couples may choose applicable law under Rome III. Child support is calculated per the Düsseldorfer Tabelle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a non-EU citizen buy property in Germany?
Yes. Germany places no nationality-based restrictions on real estate purchases. You will need a tax identification number, a German bank account, and a notarial deed executed by a licensed German notary.
How long does it take to get a German residence permit?
Processing times vary by Ausländerbehörde (immigration office). EU nationals need only register at the local residents' office (Einwohnermeldeamt). Non-EU nationals should expect 4–12 weeks for most permit categories.
Does EU law override German national law?
EU regulations apply directly and take precedence over conflicting national law. EU directives must be transposed into German law. In practice, most everyday legal questions in Germany are governed by the BGB (Civil Code) and other national statutes.
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