Hey! This article applies mostly for Americans and Australians. Canadians are able to take advantage of a special youth work visa that streamlines the process for them, so they have it even easier, I think.

I don’t know how easy/hard it is for Indian citizens to obtain a freelance visa. I know you have to apply for a Schengen visa from India to visit the EU, but I don’t know if you can start looking for apartments and register yourself as a resident when you get here.

Given the assload of trouble my Indian cousin went through moving to Germany for a corporate job, I don’t think this will be an easy journey.

Yes, you have to have your Anmeldung in hand when you go in for your appointment.

If you end up not getting a visa and have to leave the country, I believe you can break your rental contract. This is the case for phone plans, gyms, etc. and I think it applies for rent too.

I don’t know your career goals, but if you just want to chill in Germany for a few years, I think you’ll have a relatively easier time moving if you apply for a FT job.

If you’re serious about moving, you should definitely check in with an immigration lawyer first to go over your options.

Good luck!