Which residence permits allow property financing in Germany?
EU citizens and holders of a settlement permit (permanent residence) have the easiest access. The EU Blue Card works too — the circle of banks is smaller, but established. Fixed-term permits are possible, but usually need 30–40 % equity and the right banks.
What is the difference between a tax resident and a tax non-resident?
Tax resident: residence or habitual abode in Germany — you pay income tax here on your worldwide income. Tax non-resident: residence abroad; in Germany you pay only on income earned here. This makes a big difference for financing — the circle of banks is much smaller for non-residents.
Can Germans living abroad finance a property in Germany?
Yes, even as a German citizen with residence abroad this is possible — though only through a small circle of banks. I know the banks that finance with residence in Switzerland, Austria, the Netherlands, the USA, the UK or Asia. Important: income must be reliably verifiable; for a foreign currency, a discount of around 25 % is applied to the income.
Do I get KfW funding as an expat?
For owner-occupation as a tax resident in Germany: yes. KfW 297/298 for QNG new builds, KfW 261 for renovation, KfW 300 for families — all are open to expats if the personal requirements are met. For non-residents (residence abroad), KfW is generally not eligible.