Livida Sport: A Global Guide to Football Transfers - Second Edition - Manual / Resource - Page 22
German
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Immigration Rules
Non-EU footballers must normally apply for an Athlete Visa. The player must be at least
16 years old, although this is effectively 18 due to FIFA restrictions on the transfer of
minors. A residence permit is issued for the duration of the player9s employment
contract but is limited to a maximum period of four years.
Player Requirements
An endorsement by the German Football Association (DFB) is required in order to
play in the Bundesliga and 2. Bundesliga, and the top two women9s divisions.
A contract issued by a club that is affiliated with the German Olympic Sports
Confederation.
Minimum annual salary of €45,300.
Dependants
Dependents can apply for a residence permit where the player has been issued a permit
that is valid for at least one year. Dependent permits are issued for the same period as
the player and allow study and work without restriction.
Applications
Certain nationals must submit an application at the German Embassy/Consulate in the
player9s country of residence to enter Germany initially. Citizens of Australia, Israel,
Japan, Canada, New Zealand, Republic of Korea and the USA may enter Germany without
a visa and obtain a residence permit after entering the country.
Spending five years continuously in Germany can lead to permanent residency and
German citizenship if conditions are met.
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