With a permanent visa abroad

The term “permanent visa” has multiple meanings and is therefore difficult to define clearly. The term “permanent visa” is often used when travelers are allowed to stay for several months, a year or longer with the possibility of multiple entries and exits. Others use the term when people intend to settle permanently in a foreign country that requires a visa. The latter variant, which is often referred to as a residence visa, is actually “permanent” and therefore fits the term better. The reasons why travelers apply for a permanent visa vary. Reuniting families, long-distance relationships or a job in the destination country are probably among the most common reasons why people choose a new home. However, a settlement visa is also attractive for retirees who have already lived in another country for several months on a regular basis. The catch: obtaining a residence visa in many countries that require a visa, such as China, is a very difficult and cost-intensive undertaking. In most cases, visas of this type are very limited and reserved for people who, for example, have close family ties with locals, special achievements or high investments in the destination country. In addition, applicants must have already lived in the destination country for a period of several years - using other residence permits. Anyone planning to apply for a permanent visa for China (D visa) will usually need the documents listed below to present to the consulate. In other countries, the required documents may vary.

• Fully completed application form
• passport
• current, colored passport photo
• invitation
• Health certificate with HIV test
• permanent settlement permit

The long-term visas or six-month or annual visas mentioned at the beginning are an alternative for long-term stays abroad. A multiple-entry visa is available in some countries, such as Russia, within the business visa category. If you have relatives abroad, a visitor visa may entitle you to a longer stay. There is a so-called long-stay visa for Thailand, which is valid for 365 days. In many cases, it is possible to extend the visa locally. Otherwise, there is often the option of leaving for a neighboring country for a short time and then returning to your adopted country with a new visa. This procedure is also known as “visa runs”. In individual cases, you should consider whether you should try to obtain a permanent visa in the sense of a permanent residence permit or whether it is better to apply for alternative visas several times.