Glückwunsch ! You have decided to move to Germany for work purposes. As the world’s fourth-largest economy, Germany is extremely welcoming to qualified non-Germans. Since March 2020, the Skilled immigration Act has enforced new rules for the immigration of non-European skilled workers, offering more opportunities for qualified professionals to work in Germany.
Nonetheless, you will still need to apply for a work visa or permit in order to legally stay and work in your new place of residence. The application process depends on your situation and country of origin.

Why Germany?

  • Easy Visa: No sponsorship needed.
  • Opportunities: 1.8 Million vacancies in 20+ sectors.
  • Validity: 1 Year, renewable for 2 more years.
  • Eligibility: A valid degree & 2 years experience.
  • Language Proficiency: No IELTS needed. German not mandatory.
  • Money: Earn 1000 euros working part time, while you search for jobs.
  • 10th Happiest country in the world
  • Largest economy in EU.
  • €1.5 billion allotted for immigrants.
  • No.1 in retaining international graduates.
  • Eased immigration policies.

Types of Germany Visa

Different types of work visa

The following types of work visa exist, depending on the applicant’s level of qualification:

  • Visa for skilled workers holding a university degree (Section 18b of the Residence Act [AufenthG])
  • EU Blue Card (Section 18g of the Residence Act [AufenthG])
  • Visa for skilled workers with vocational training qualifications (Section 18a of the Residence Act [AufenthG])
  • Visa for employment in the case of practical professional knowledge (Section 19c (2) of the Residence Act [AufenthG] in conjunction with Section 6 of the Ordinance on the Employment of Foreigners [BeschV])

There are also special regulations for certain groups of professionals, such as healthcare assistants and professional drivers, and for nationals of Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia and Serbia (Western Balkans Regulation).

In the “Visa” section of the Make it in Germany portal for skilled workers, you can find out what the requirements are for each type of visa and how the visa process works.

What are the requirements for a work visa?

  • Your qualification must be recognised in Germany or comparable to a German degree. If you want to work in a regulated profession, such as a healthcare profession, you will need a licence to practise. For more information on the recognition procedure, see the “Recognition” section.
  • You have a specific job offer from an employer in Germany. It is important that the job you are offered is a qualified position. This means that you will usually need a degree or qualified vocational training to do the job. Auxiliary tasks will not be sufficient for this purpose.
  • Your job does not have to be related to your professional qualifications. However, you will need a licence to practise if you want to work in a regulated profession.
  • Are you over the age of 45 and coming to work in Germany for the first time? In this case, the job you intend to take in Germany must enable you to earn a gross annual salary of at least €49,830 (as of 2024) or you must be able to prove that you have adequate pension provision.

How to apply for Germany work visa

The step-by-step procedure for applying for a work visa for Germany is given below:

  • Step 1: Apply for temporary leave to stay in the country facilitated by the Immigration Directorate of Germany
  • Step 2: Obtain the temporary visa
  • Step 3: Duly fill out the type D visa application form on arrival in Luxembourg
  • Step 4: Submit the application in the area where the candidate wishes to live and work. The process consists of the following:
  1. Submit a declaration at the local administration centres confirming that the applicant wants to live in the specific region
  2. Undergo a medical examination
  3. Download the formal application forms on the government website of Luxembourg
  4. Reapply for the visa if the candidate wants to stay after the validity of the visa has ended.

Germany work visa processing time

Visa applications for Germany are generally done within 15 days. This time may increase depending on the documents you have submitted.

How can Bluecard Experts help you?

Bluecard Experts, the world’s top overseas immigration consultancy, provides unbiased immigration services for every client based on their interests and requirements. Our impeccable services at Bluecard Experts, include the following:
  • Expert guidance/counselling for working in Luxembourg
  • Assistance on applying visa
  • Coaching Services: IELTS/TOFEL Proficiency Coaching
  • Free career counselling; book your slot today!
  • Job Services offer to find related Jobs in Germany.