Are you dreaming of starting a new life in Europe with stable employment, fair wages, and strong legal protections? Germany’s growing demand for maintenance workers, cleaners, and facility staff is creating unprecedented opportunities for international workers especially from Nigeria and other African countries to build rewarding careers in one of the world’s strongest economies.
This comprehensive guide walks you through everything you need to know about securing unskilled maintenance worker positions in Germany in 2026, from understanding the job market to navigating visa requirements and maximizing your earning potential.
Why Germany Needs Maintenance Workers Like You in 2026
Germany is facing a critical labor shortage that extends far beyond high-skilled professions. The country’s aging population, declining birth rate, and booming economy have created significant gaps across multiple sectors, particularly in essential service roles like maintenance, cleaning, and facility management.
The Numbers Tell the Story:
Germany faces labor shortages across more than 70 occupations, with a projected deficit of 3 million skilled workers anticipated by 2030. The unemployment rate remains remarkably low at just 3.4% as of early 2025, meaning companies are competing aggressively for available workers across all skill levels.
The demand for maintenance and cleaning workers has risen substantially, with the transport, logistics, and warehousing sector seeing a 46% increase in job postings. Notably, unskilled employees now account for 36.8% of all positions in this sector, demonstrating the genuine need for workers without formal qualifications.
Why This Matters for You:
Unlike many countries that focus exclusively on highly skilled professionals, Germany recognizes that maintenance workers, cleaners, janitors, and facility staff are essential to keeping businesses, hotels, factories, hospitals, and residential buildings running smoothly. The German government has implemented specific immigration policies to welcome international workers into these crucial roles.
What Does a Maintenance Worker Do in Germany?
Maintenance work in Germany encompasses a broad range of responsibilities that go beyond basic cleaning. These roles are varied, respectable, and essential to the functioning of modern German society.
Common Maintenance Worker Roles Include:
- Building Cleaners and Janitors: Maintaining cleanliness in commercial buildings, offices, schools, hospitals, and hotels
- Facility Maintenance Workers: Basic repairs, equipment upkeep, and general building maintenance
- Industrial Cleaning Specialists: Cleaning factories, manufacturing plants, and industrial equipment
- Housekeeping Staff: Working in hotels, hospitals, and residential care facilities
- Grounds Maintenance Workers: Maintaining outdoor spaces, gardens, and building exteriors
- Warehouse Maintenance: Keeping logistics and storage facilities clean and operational
Daily Responsibilities Typically Include:
- Sweeping, mopping, and vacuuming floors
- Cleaning and sanitizing bathrooms, kitchens, and common areas
- Dusting and wiping surfaces
- Emptying trash and recycling bins
- Minor repairs and equipment maintenance
- Restocking cleaning supplies and materials
- Operating cleaning equipment and machinery
- Following safety and hygiene protocols
- Reporting maintenance issues to supervisors
The best part? Many of these positions require minimal prior experience and offer extensive on-the-job training.
How Much Can You Earn as a Maintenance Worker in Germany?
One of the most attractive aspects of working in Germany is the competitive compensation even for positions that don’t require advanced qualifications.
2025-2026 Salary Overview:
Hourly Wages:
- Entry-level cleaners and maintenance workers: €12-€14 per hour
- Experienced maintenance staff: €13-€17 per hour
- Specialized cleaning roles (industrial, technical): €14-€20 per hour
Monthly Income:
- Part-time employment (20 hours/week): €1,000-€1,500 gross per month
- Full-time employment (40 hours/week): €1,800-€2,500 gross per month
- With overtime and bonuses: €2,200-€3,000 gross per month
Important Context:
Germany’s minimum wage for 2025 stands at €12.82 per hour, which is legally guaranteed regardless of your nationality or skill level. This means you’ll earn at least €2,080 gross per month working full-time—significantly higher than similar positions in many countries.
Additional Financial Benefits:
- Overtime Pay: Extra compensation for work beyond standard hours (typically 25-50% higher rate)
- Night and Weekend Shifts: Additional 10-25% premium for non-standard hours
- Holiday Bonuses: Many employers offer Christmas bonuses (Weihnachtsgeld)
- Vacation Pay: 20-24 days of paid annual leave (legally mandated)
- Transportation Allowances: Some employers subsidize commuting costs
What Does This Mean in Real Terms?
A full-time maintenance worker earning €2,200 gross per month (approximately €1,600-€1,800 net after taxes and insurance) can comfortably cover living expenses in most German cities. While major cities like Munich and Frankfurt are more expensive, cities like Berlin, Hamburg, Cologne, and Leipzig offer more affordable living with excellent job opportunities.
The German Legal Framework: Your Rights as a Foreign Worker
One of Germany’s greatest advantages for international workers is its robust legal protections. Unlike informal employment in many countries, working in Germany as a maintenance worker means you’re fully protected by some of the world’s strongest labor laws.
Your Legal Rights Include:
1. Employment Contract Protection:
- Written employment contracts are mandatory
- Clear terms regarding salary, working hours, and job duties
- Protection against unfair dismissal
2. Working Hour Regulations:
- Maximum 48 hours per week (including overtime)
- Mandatory breaks and rest periods
- Regulated night and weekend work
3. Comprehensive Social Security:
- Public health insurance (covers medical care, hospital stays, prescriptions)
- Pension contributions (building toward retirement benefits)
- Unemployment insurance (protection if you lose your job)
- Accident insurance (coverage for work-related injuries)
4. Paid Leave and Time Off:
- Minimum 20-24 days of paid vacation annually
- Paid sick leave (up to 6 weeks at full salary)
- Maternity/paternity leave with job protection
- Public holidays (varies by region, 9-13 days per year)
5. Workplace Safety Standards:
- Strict occupational health and safety regulations
- Required safety equipment and training
- Protection from hazardous working conditions
6. Equal Treatment:
- Same minimum wage regardless of nationality
- Protection against discrimination
- Equal access to social benefits
These protections mean that as a foreign maintenance worker in Germany, you’ll have the same rights and treatment as German citizens—a level of security and dignity that’s rare in many employment destinations worldwide.
Visa Pathways for Maintenance Workers: Your Route to Germany
Getting to Germany legally as a maintenance worker involves understanding the visa system. While Germany traditionally focused on attracting highly skilled workers, recent reforms have opened new pathways specifically for workers in essential service sectors.
Option 1: The Germany Opportunity Card (Chancenkarte) – 2025/2026 Innovation
The Opportunity Card represents Germany’s most significant immigration reform for workers without pre-existing job offers. Launched in June 2024, this revolutionary visa allows you to enter Germany to search for employment—including maintenance and cleaning positions.
Key Features:
- Valid for up to 12 months
- No job offer required before arrival
- Allows part-time work (up to 20 hours per week) while job searching
- Permits unlimited 2-week trial jobs with potential employers
- Can be extended if you secure employment
Basic Requirements:
- At least 2 years of vocational training OR a university degree (recognized in your home country)
- German language skills (minimum A1 level) OR English proficiency (minimum B2 level)
- Financial proof: €1,091 per month (€13,092 for the full year), typically via a blocked bank account
Points System (Minimum 6 Points Required if qualifications not recognized in Germany):
- 4 points: Partial recognition of foreign qualifications in Germany
- 3 points: 5+ years of professional experience in your field
- 3 points: German language level B2 or higher
- 2 points: 2+ years of professional experience
- 2 points: German language level B1
- 2 points: Age 35 or younger
- 1 point: German language level A2
- 1 point: English language level C1
- 1 point: Age 36-40
- 1 point: Qualification in a shortage occupation
- 1 point: Previous legal stay in Germany (6+ months in past 5 years)
- 1 point: Spouse/partner also qualifies for Opportunity Card
Application Process:
- Check your eligibility using the official self-check tool on Make-it-in-Germany.com
- Gather required documents (passport, qualification certificates, language certificates, financial proof)
- Apply online or at the German embassy/consulate in Nigeria
- Attend visa interview and provide biometric data
- Pay application fee (€75)
- Wait for processing (typically 4-12 weeks)
- Once approved, enter Germany and begin your job search
Why This Matters for Maintenance Workers:
Even if you don’t have formal cleaning or maintenance qualifications, any 2-year vocational training or degree combined with basic language skills can qualify you for the Opportunity Card. Once in Germany, you can search for maintenance positions, take trial jobs, and work part-time—giving you time to secure permanent employment.
Option 2: Direct Employment Visa (Work Visa)
If you secure a job offer from a German employer before traveling, you can apply directly for a work visa. Many cleaning companies, facility management firms, and hotels actively recruit international workers and provide visa sponsorship.
Requirements:
- Confirmed job offer from a German employer
- Employment contract meeting German labor standards
- Passport valid for at least 6 months
- Completed visa application forms
- Proof of accommodation in Germany (can be employer-provided)
- Health insurance coverage
Application Fee: €75
Processing Time: 4-12 weeks (can be longer during peak periods)
Option 3: Seasonal Worker Permits
For those wanting to test working in Germany before committing long-term, seasonal work permits are available, particularly in hospitality and agriculture.
Features:
- Shorter duration (typically 3-6 months)
- Often includes employer-provided accommodation
- Can lead to permanent positions
- Simpler application process
Top Companies Hiring Maintenance Workers in Germany
Several major German companies and sectors actively recruit international maintenance workers and often provide visa sponsorship and relocation support.
Leading Employers Include:
1. Cleaning and Facility Management Companies:
- WISAG: Major facility services provider with 4,000+ cleaning positions nationwide
- Dussmann Service Deutschland: Large-scale cleaning services across Germany
- ISS Facility Services: International company with extensive German operations
- Helpling: Platform connecting cleaners with clients (flexible scheduling)
2. Hospitality and Hotels:
- Marriott International: Operates numerous hotels across Germany
- Hilton Hotels: Regular recruitment of housekeeping and maintenance staff
- Dorint Hotels: German hotel chain with multiple locations
- Independent Hotels: Particularly in tourist areas like Bavaria, Berlin, Hamburg
3. Healthcare Facilities:
- Hospitals and clinics (constant need for maintenance and cleaning staff)
- Elderly care facilities (growing sector due to aging population)
- Rehabilitation centers
4. Logistics and Warehousing:
- DHL: Extensive warehouse and facility maintenance needs
- Amazon: Multiple fulfillment centers requiring maintenance staff
- Logistics companies: Growing sector with high demand
5. Retail Chains:
- Lidl: Regular hiring for store maintenance and cleaning
- Aldi: Similar opportunities across numerous locations
- Kaufland: Supermarket chain with ongoing recruitment
- Metro AG: Wholesale and retail operations
6. Manufacturing and Industrial:
- Various factories requiring industrial cleaning specialists
- Production facilities needing maintenance workers
How to Find Maintenance Jobs in Germany: Step-by-Step Strategy
Finding employment as a maintenance worker in Germany requires a strategic approach. Here’s your action plan:
Step 1: Prepare Your Documents
Before applying for any position, ensure you have:
- Valid international passport (minimum 6 months validity)
- Educational certificates (translated to German or English)
- Language proficiency certificates (Goethe Institute for German, TOEFL/IELTS for English)
- Resume formatted for German standards (CV should be detailed, 2-3 pages)
- Reference letters from previous employers (if available)
- Recent passport-style photographs
Step 2: Search Job Portals
The most effective platforms for finding maintenance and cleaning jobs in Germany include:
Primary Job Boards:
- Indeed.de: Largest job search platform in Germany
- StepStone.de: Professional job board with extensive listings
- Arbeitsagentur.de: Official Federal Employment Agency portal
- Jobbörse.de: Government-run job exchange
- Monster.de: International job platform with German positions
Specialized Platforms:
- Helpling.de: Connects cleaners with private clients
- WorkerHero.com: Specializes in unskilled and semi-skilled positions
- Aurawoo.com: Focuses on international candidates
Application Strategy:
- Search in English initially, then use German terms as you learn: “Reinigungskraft” (cleaner), “Hausmeister” (janitor), “Gebäudereinigung” (building cleaning)
- Set up job alerts for automatic notifications
- Apply to multiple positions daily (aim for 5-10 applications per day)
- Tailor your CV for each application
Step 3: Contact Staffing Agencies
Temporary staffing agencies (Zeitarbeit) specialize in placing workers in maintenance and cleaning roles:
Recommended Agencies:
- Randstad: Major international staffing agency
- Manpower: Extensive network across Germany
- Trenkwalder: Specializes in industrial and service roles
- ARWA Personaldienstleistungen: Focus on various sectors including cleaning
Why Use Agencies:
- They handle much of the visa paperwork
- Provide immediate job placements
- Often offer German language training
- Can lead to permanent positions
Step 4: Apply Directly to Companies
Many large companies accept direct applications through their career pages:
- Visit company websites and look for “Karriere” or “Jobs” sections
- Submit applications even if no specific vacancy is listed
- Follow up with phone calls or emails
- Express willingness to relocate
Step 5: Network and Use Social Media
- Join Facebook groups for Nigerians/Africans in Germany
- Connect with people already working in Germany on LinkedIn
- Participate in online forums about working in Germany
- Attend virtual job fairs (increasingly common post-pandemic)
Living in Germany: What to Expect When You Arrive
Understanding what life will be like once you secure a maintenance position helps you prepare for success.
Cost of Living (2025-2026 Estimates)
Monthly Expenses in Major Cities:
Berlin (Capital – Moderate Cost):
- Rent (single room apartment): €800-€1,200
- Utilities (electricity, water, internet): €150-€250
- Food and groceries: €200-€300
- Transportation (monthly pass): €50-€100
- Health insurance: €100-€200 (often partially covered by employer)
- Phone/mobile: €15-€30
- Miscellaneous: €100-€150
- Total: €1,415-€2,230
Munich (Most Expensive):
- Rent: €1,000-€1,500
- Other expenses: Similar to Berlin
- Total: €1,615-€2,430
Leipzig, Dresden, Cologne (More Affordable):
- Rent: €500-€900
- Other expenses: Slightly lower than Berlin
- Total: €1,015-€1,730
Budget-Friendly Strategy:
- Many employers offer shared accommodation or housing assistance
- Some positions include meals (especially in hotels and care facilities)
- Public transportation is excellent and affordable
- Consider smaller cities for lower costs and less competition
Cultural Adaptation Tips
Workplace Culture:
- Germans value punctuality always arrive 5-10 minutes early
- Direct communication is preferred (don’t hesitate to ask questions)
- Follow instructions precisely and pay attention to detail
- Respect hierarchy and reporting structures
- Work-life balance is important (don’t expect to work excessive hours)
Language Considerations: While many Germans speak English, learning German dramatically improves your:
- Job prospects and earning potential
- Daily life and social integration
- Chances of career advancement
- Ability to navigate bureaucracy
Free and Low-Cost German Learning Resources:
- Deutsche Welle (DW) – Free online German courses
- Duolingo and Babbel apps
- Integration courses (often government-subsidized for legal residents)
- Language exchange meetups in German cities
- YouTube channels dedicated to German learning
Social Integration:
- Germany has large Nigerian and African communities, especially in Berlin, Frankfurt, Hamburg
- Churches and community organizations provide support networks
- Many cities have international cultural centers
- Germans generally respect diverse backgrounds and multiculturalism
Weather Preparation
Germany experiences four distinct seasons:
- Winter (December-February): Cold, often snowy (-5°C to 5°C)
- Spring (March-May): Mild, gradually warming (5°C to 15°C)
- Summer (June-August): Warm, pleasant (20°C to 30°C)
- Autumn (September-November): Cool, rainy (10°C to 20°C)
Practical Advice:
- Invest in warm winter clothing (coat, boots, gloves)
- Layers are essential for adapting to indoor heating
- Rain gear is useful year-round
- Many employers provide work uniforms
Career Growth: Beyond Entry-Level Maintenance Work
What starts as an unskilled maintenance position can evolve into a long-term career with significant opportunities for advancement.
Career Progression Pathways:
1. Skill Development and Training: Many German employers support worker development through:
- Ausbildung (Vocational Training): Formal apprenticeship programs leading to recognized qualifications
- Specialized Certifications: Technical cleaning, disinfection, building management
- Language Training: Employer-sponsored German courses
- Safety and Equipment Training: Operating specialized machinery
2. Supervisory Roles: With experience and language proficiency, you can advance to:
- Team Leader positions
- Shift Supervisor
- Building Manager
- Facility Coordinator
3. Specialization Opportunities:
- Industrial Cleaning: Higher pay for specialized factory cleaning
- Medical Facility Cleaning: Hospitals require trained cleaning staff
- Technical Maintenance: Building systems, HVAC, electrical basics
- Environmental Services: Green cleaning and sustainability focus
4. Permanent Residency and Citizenship: Working legally in Germany creates a path to:
- Temporary Residence Permit: Initially granted with employment
- Settlement Permit (Permanent Residency): After 5 years of legal residence (or 3 years with German language proficiency)
- German Citizenship: After 8 years (or 6 years with integration achievements)
Benefits of Permanent Residency:
- Unrestricted work authorization
- Access to all social services
- Ability to sponsor family members
- Freedom to change employers without visa concerns
- Potential pathway to EU citizenship
Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them
Being honest about potential difficulties helps you prepare and succeed:
Challenge 1: Physical Demands Maintenance work involves standing, bending, lifting, and physical activity for extended periods.
Solutions:
- Build physical stamina before starting
- Use proper lifting techniques (training provided)
- Wear comfortable, supportive shoes
- Take advantage of breaks
- Maintain good health through exercise and diet
Challenge 2: Language Barriers Limited German can initially make communication difficult.
Solutions:
- Start learning basic German before arriving
- Use translation apps (Google Translate, DeepL)
- Ask colleagues to speak slowly and clearly
- Practice daily even basic conversations help
- Enroll in evening language classes
- Many supervisors speak some English
Challenge 3: Homesickness and Cultural Adjustment Being far from family and friends is emotionally challenging.
Solutions:
- Stay connected via video calls (internet is affordable)
- Build relationships with fellow Nigerians/Africans in Germany
- Join religious or cultural organizations
- Maintain your culture while embracing new experiences
- Remember your “why” the better future you’re building
Challenge 4: Weather and Climate Germany’s cold winters can be difficult, especially coming from warmer climates.
Solutions:
- Invest in proper winter clothing
- Most buildings have excellent heating
- Embrace winter activities (Christmas markets, winter sports)
- Take vitamin D supplements during dark months
- Remember that seasons change spring and summer are beautiful
Challenge 5: Bureaucracy German administrative processes can seem complex.
Solutions:
- Keep all documents organized and copied
- Ask employers for help with paperwork
- Use expatriate support services
- Be patient processes take time but work systematically
- Learn to navigate the system it becomes easier
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I bring my family with me? A: Initially, most workers come alone. However, once you secure stable employment and have adequate housing and income, you can apply for family reunification visas for your spouse and children. This typically requires proving sufficient accommodation (approximately 12m² per adult, 10m² per child) and stable income to support your family without social assistance.
Q: Do I need to speak German to get a maintenance job? A: Not always. Many employers accept workers with basic German (A1 level) or even just English, especially in international environments like hotels and larger cities. However, German proficiency significantly improves your job prospects, salary potential, and integration. Most successful workers begin learning German immediately.
Q: Are cleaning jobs looked down upon in Germany? A: While some stigma exists (as in most countries), Germany generally respects all honest work. Maintenance workers are recognized as essential, and the strong legal protections and fair wages reflect this. Many Germans appreciate the dignity of all labor and the essential services maintenance workers provide.
Q: How long does the visa process take? A: From application to arrival typically takes 2-6 months. This includes document preparation, embassy appointment scheduling, visa processing (6-12 weeks), and travel arrangements. Starting early is crucial, begin preparing at least 6-9 months before your desired arrival date.
Q: Can I save money and send remittances home? A: Yes. Many maintenance workers successfully save money and support families back home. With careful budgeting, earning €1,600-€1,800 net monthly, you can cover living expenses (€1,000-€1,500) and save or remit €300-€800 monthly. As your income grows and you share accommodation, savings potential increases significantly.
Q: What happens if I lose my job? A: Germany’s social safety net provides support. As a legal resident worker, you’re entitled to unemployment insurance benefits while searching for new employment. However, maintaining legal status requires finding new employment within reasonable timeframes. Your residence permit typically remains valid while you search for work.
Q: Is it safe for women to work as cleaners in Germany? A: Yes. German labor laws provide strong protections against harassment and discrimination. Women comprise a significant portion of the cleaning and maintenance workforce. Employers are legally required to maintain safe working environments, and violations are taken seriously.
Q: Can I study while working as a maintenance worker? A: Yes. Many workers pursue evening or weekend classes, online courses, or vocational training while employed. Some employers support continued education. This is an excellent strategy for career advancement and expanding opportunities.
Success Stories: Real People Building New Lives
Chioma’s Journey (From Lagos to Berlin): “I arrived in Berlin in early 2025 through the Opportunity Card. Within six weeks, I found a housekeeping position at a major hotel chain earning €2,100 monthly. They provided language training, and after one year, I was promoted to housekeeping supervisor earning €2,600. I’m now supporting my two children back home and saving for their education. The work is hard, but the respect and stability are worth everything.”
Emeka’s Experience (Frankfurt Facility Services): “I worked through a staffing agency initially, which helped with my visa and accommodation. After proving myself for six months, the client company hired me directly with better pay and benefits. I’ve taken German language classes and completed technical maintenance certification. My income has grown from €1,900 to €2,800 monthly. I’m applying for permanent residency next year.”
Grace’s Path (Munich Healthcare): “I clean at a rehabilitation hospital. The work is demanding but meaningful I’m helping care for patients. The hospital sponsored my visa and provides free meals. I share an apartment with two other Nigerian healthcare workers, which keeps costs low. I’m saving €600 monthly and planning to bring my husband next year once I secure permanent residency. Germany gave us hope for a better future.”
Your Action Plan: Steps to Start Your Journey Today
Ready to pursue maintenance work opportunities in Germany? Here’s your concrete action plan:
Immediate Steps (This Week):
- Assess your eligibility using the Opportunity Card self-check tool
- Begin learning basic German (start with Duolingo or free DW courses)
- Gather your educational documents and start translation process
- Research visa requirements specific to your situation
- Create or update your CV in German format
Short-Term Steps (Next 1-3 Months):
- Continue German language study (aim for A1 level minimum)
- Complete all document translations and certifications
- Open a blocked bank account if applying for Opportunity Card
- Begin job searching on German portals
- Contact staffing agencies specializing in international recruitment
- Join online communities of Nigerians in Germany
- Schedule visa appointment at German Embassy in Nigeria
Medium-Term Steps (3-6 Months):
- Attend visa interview with complete documentation
- Continue applications if pursuing direct employment route
- Reach A1-A2 German language level
- Prepare financially for relocation costs (visa fees, flight, initial accommodation)
- Research neighborhoods and accommodation in target German cities
- Connect with potential roommates or support networks
Long-Term Preparation (6-12 Months):
- Receive visa approval and plan travel
- Arrange temporary accommodation for arrival
- Purchase appropriate clothing for German climate
- Inform family and handle personal affairs in Nigeria
- Prepare mentally for cultural transition
- Book flight and travel to Germany
- Begin your new life and career!
Final Thoughts: Your Future Awaits
Germany’s need for maintenance workers represents a genuine, achievable opportunity for Nigerians and Africans seeking better lives. Unlike many countries that promise opportunities but deliver exploitation, Germany offers legal employment, fair wages, strong protections, and real pathways to permanent residency.
This isn’t get-rich-quick it’s honest work that requires dedication, adaptability, and perseverance. But for those willing to embrace the challenge, the rewards are substantial: financial stability, legal status in Europe, quality of life, career growth potential, and the ability to support families back home.
The maintenance workers building careers in Germany today are pioneers creating pathways that benefit not only themselves but also future generations seeking legitimate opportunities abroad. Your journey might have challenges, but thousands before you have succeeded, and you can too.
Remember:
- Start preparing today, every month of language learning and planning increases your chances
- Be patient with bureaucratic processes they work, just methodically
- Stay focused on your goal when difficulties arise
- Connect with others making the same journey
- Never pay anyone promising guaranteed jobs, apply through legitimate channels only
- Trust in your abilities your willingness to work hard is your greatest asset
Germany is waiting for dedicated workers like you. Your opportunity to build a better future starts with the decision to take that first step.
Need More Information?
- Official German Immigration Portal: www.make-it-in-germany.com
- Opportunity Card Information: www.chancenkarte.com/en
- German Embassy in Nigeria: nigeria.diplo.de
- Job Search Platforms: indeed.de, stepstone.de, arbeitsagentur.de
- Language Learning: www.dw.com/en/learn-german
Your journey to a new life in Germany begins now. Take that first step today—research, prepare, and pursue your opportunity. The maintenance worker positions of 2026 could be your pathway to a transformed future.
Good luck, safe travels, and welcome to your new beginning in Germany!
Disclaimer: Visa and immigration policies can change. Always verify current requirements through official German government sources and embassies. This guide provides general information and should not replace professional immigration advice.