Marrying an European?

Question

I am American and marrying an European, he is from Spain...we want to move to Europe, but do we have to live in his native country of Spain for a period of time or in the other EU countries..we want to live in Germany...how will it work??

Answer 1

It is a bit complicated. Your husband being an EU citizen can move to Germany with no problem. However since you have not obtained permanent residency in an EU contury it makes it a bit more complicated.

In all honesty you are probably better off staying in one country than trying to move around Europe, at least until you become a citizen. My understanding is as follows: Your fiance needs to establish residency in Germany. Then the two of you need to get married and make sure your marriage complies with the relevant laws of that country. Since you do not have your permanent residency card you cannot move around freely. Each move for you needs an application from your husband and you may be required to get a visa to enter any European country that you choose to reside.

In all honesty you are better off staying in Spain and not trying to move about Europe until you become a citizen of a European country.

In the 'source' section I have include the EU rules regarding immigration. However you will need to research each countries rules regarding your situation since you are not an EU national.

Answer 2

You will both need a residence permit. Anyone wishing to stay in Germany for more than 90 days will require a residence permit.

"Citizens of the United States of America, Australia, Canada, Israel, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, as well as EU citizens may apply for their residence permit after entering Germany without a visa." ---As per the German embassy in the USA.

http://www.germany.info/relaunch/info/mi...