Germany Work Permit Visa

UK Work Permit

Germany is a popular destination for immigration, especially for skilled workers. There are a number of different ways to immigrate to Germany, but the most common are skilled worker immigration, family reunification, studying in Germany, and asylum.

germany work visa

How can I get work permit in Germany?

Is it easy to get a work visa in Germany?

What are the eligibility conditions for the Subclass 891 visa?

Is IELTS required for German/Germany work visa?

jobseeker visa

What are the steps to apply for a Jobseeker visa?

What are the advantages of the Jobseeker visa?

What are the advantages of getting a work and residence permit in Germany?

Which are the top sectors for job opportunities in Germany?

What benefits does the German Skilled Workers act offer to non-EU skilled workers?

What is the Work visa Germany offers for EU residents?

What is the Work Visa Germany offers for non-EU residents?

Who is eligible for the EU Blue Card to work in Germany?

What is the German self-employment visa?

What privileges does a permanent residency give an immigrant in Germany?

permanent residency

What are the requirements to get permanent residency in Germany?

What are the requirements to get permanent residency in Germany?

What are the other means to secure permanent residency?

What are the eligibility conditions and documents required to apply for permanent residency in Germany?

What are the benefits of having permanent residency in Germany?

What are the rules for non-EU nationals under the German Skilled Migration Act?

student visa

What are the reasons to study in Germany?

What are the types of German student visas?

What are the crucial steps to follow if you wish to study in Germany?

What are the eligibility requirements to get German citizenship?

What are the ways to get German citizenship?

Does Germany offer dual citizenship?

family reunion visa

What is the German Family Reunion visa?

What are the work options for international students in Germany?

Can you work while you are studying in Germany?

What are the options to move to Germany without a job offer?

What are the options to move to Germany without a job offer?

What are the IELTS requirements for work visas in Germany?

Which visa will I need to study in Germany?

What are the factors for Permanent Residency application for Germany?

What are the jobs an international student can do while studying in Germany?

What are the work visa options to work in Germany?

What are the qualifications required for Skilled workers?

What are the required documents for student visa application?

How much does a Germany family reunion visa cost?

What is the processing time for the family reunion visa?

How can you bring your dependent children to Germany?

How can you bring your dependent children to Germany?

Is it possible to obtain permanent residence in Germany if I have just been in Germany for less than five years?

What is the application process for permanent residency?

germany immigration

Why is migration important to Germany?

What are the advantages of migrating to Germany?

How can I get work permit in Germany?

These are the options for a work visa in Germany if you choose to work there:

Work visa: A residence permit and a work visa are required before you come to Germany. You should approach the German consulate or embassy and to submit your application. You should also have an offer letter for the job from the employer-based in Germany to apply for this visa.

EU Blue card: A graduate or an undergraduate degree is required from a recognized university to be eligible for the EU or European Union Blue Card. Their job should also pay the stipulated annual gross salary fixed in Germany.

You can also be issued the EU Blue card if you have completed your graduation courses from a university in Germany or you happen to be a professional who is highly skilled in the field of IT, Mathematics, Engineering, Life Sciences, or a professional in the medical field. Your income must be approximately equal with the native German workers.

Jobseeker visa: The Jobseeker visa facilitates skilled international workers to come and search for a job in Germany. This visa was brought into effect to address the shortage of skilled workers in various fields. This visa permits you to stay in Germany for 6 months and search for a job. This approval of the visa is in accordance with the recent immigration laws passed in May 2019 by the German government.

Is it easy to get a work visa in Germany?

Is it easy to get a work visa in Germany?

Germany has an efficient and orderly visa processing system. It offers multiple options for a visa based on which you belong.

The people who belong to the EU nations can work in Germany without a work permit or visa. People from countries not part of the EU need to apply for a work visa. Submission of the application needs to be done before you come to Germany.

Suppose you are a graduate or post-graduate or have a job offer from Germany already. In that case, you can apply for the EU Blue Card before you come to Germany. It is advised to get the Jobseeker visa first to make it easier to get the work visa later in Germany.

What are the eligibility conditions for the Subclass 891 visa?

Eligibility conditions for the Subclass 891 visa

You must be the primary holder of a Subclass 162 visa

You must have lived in the country for at least 2 years in the previous 4 years immediate to the date of your application while having the Provisional) visa (subclass 162)

You must have held a designated investment of 1.5 million Australian dollars for four years

You must display a commitment to continue your business activities in Australia

You and your family members must meet health and character requirements

Processing time

These visa applications are assessed on a case-by-case basis and the processing time can vary provided you have met the following conditions:

  • Submitted the complete application with all the supporting documents
  • Your response time to requests for additional information
  • Time is taken by authorities to verify the additional information you provided
  • Time is taken for the authorities to receive the additional information
  • Places vacant in the migration program

Is IELTS required for German/Germany work visa?

IELTS is not required to qualify for a German work visa.

The English language requirements are dependent on the type of job you are applying for. If the job is for a position that involves travelling around the world, then a certain level of English proficiency is required. In such cases, it would be no harm to get an IELTS certification which is a validation of your English proficiency.

The right educational qualification, work experience and a basic knowledge of German will improve your prospects of finding a job here.

What are the steps to apply for a Jobseeker visa?

Step 1: Submit the required documents along with your application.

Step 2: Get an appointment from the embassy to submit the application form.

Step 3: Fill the online application form and submit it with the required documents.

Step 4:  Attend the visa interview at the embassy or consulate.

Step 5: Pay the visa fees.

Step 6: Wait for the visa processing. This can be between one to two months.

What are the advantages of the Jobseeker visa?

The jobseeker visa allows you to search for a job in a duration of six months.

The visa is processed under six months making it easy to plan your course of action. Compared to other EU countries it is a quick visa decision.

Gives you ample time to find a job that is a fit for your skills and qualifications

Provision to apply for an EU blue card once you secure a job.

After 5 years of staying in Germany with a work visa, you will be eligible to apply for permanent residency.

What are the advantages of getting a work and residence permit in Germany?

You can bring your family members to Germany once you have a work visa and a residence permit. Your family members will be eligible for work and study opportunities in the country.

You and your family members will be eligible for social security benefits which will include insurance and pension benefits.

Which are the top sectors for job opportunities in Germany?

The top jobs for 2022 in Germany are:

  • Architects
  • Electronics engineers
  • Software developers
  • Programmers
  • IT consultants
  • Electrical fitters
  • Electricians
  • Nurses
  • Economists
  • Analysts
  • Experts in business management
  • Account managers
  • Customer advisors
  • Production assistants
  • Sales and product managers
  • Sales representatives and assistants
  • Civil engineers

What benefits does the German Skilled Workers act offer to non-EU skilled workers?

The act allows non-EU skilled workers to look for a job and subsequently work in Germany, especially in any of the occupations that are facing a skills shortage.

The act enables any non-EU citizen to work in Germany provided they have the necessary vocational training or appropriate degree and an employment contract from a German employer.

 Skilled workers will find it easy to get a job seeker visa which allows them to stay six months in Germany and look for a job. They will not need to have an employment contract, but they will qualify for a jobseeker visa if they have completed professional training.

During these six months, they can either work up to ten hours a week or do an internship provided they have a B2 level in German.

Skilled workers selected under this new law will get a four-month employment offer. After four years they can apply for a permanent residence permit, provided they have contributed to the German pension fund for at least 48 months, have the financial means to support themselves, and the stipulated knowledge of German language.

What is the Work visa Germany offers for EU residents?

If you belong to a country that is part of the EU you need not apply for permission to working in Germany.   You are also exempted from applying for a work permit. As an EU citizen, you and your family members are free to enter the country and seek employment.

Citizens belonging to European countries of Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland, also enjoy the same privileges as EU citizens. These citizens require a valid passport or identity card to live and work in Germany. But they will have to register their residence within three months of entering the country.

What is the Work Visa Germany offers for non-EU residents?

If you are a citizen of a non-EU nation you must apply for a work visa and a residence permit before you travel to the country. You must approach the German embassy or consulate in your country for them. Your application must include the following:

  • Job offer letter from the firm in Germany
  • Valid passport
  • Annexure for an employment permit
  • Certificates of academic qualification
  • Certificates of work experience
  • Approval letter from the Federal Employment Agency

If you intend to bring your family to Germany when you are working there, the following conditions apply:

  • Your income must be enough to support you and your family
  • You must be able to provide housing for your family
  • Your family members must have a basic understanding of the German language

Your children must be below 18 years

Who is eligible for the EU Blue Card to work in Germany?

Individuals with a graduate or undergraduate degree from a recognized university and have secured a job with a specified annual gross salary in Germany before moving there are eligible for the EU Blue card.

Individuals who have graduated from a German university or are highly skilled professionals in mathematics, IT, life sciences, or engineering, or are medical professionals are also eligible. Thye also must earn a salary comparable to German workers.

Privileges of the EU Blue Card

  • Allowed to stay in Germany for four years
  • Eligible for permanent residency after two or three years
  • Spouse and children are eligible to come with you
  • Family members eligible for a work permit

What is the German self-employment visa?

If you are looking for self-employment opportunities in the country, you need to apply for a residence permit and permission to start your business. A self-employment visa is required if you are coming to Germany temporarily and for business purposes.

Before approving your visa, the authorities will check the feasibility of your business idea, review your business plan, and your previous experience in the business.

They will check if you have the capital to start your business and if your company has the potential to meet economic or regional needs in Germany. And your business should be beneficial to the German economy.

What privileges does a permanent residency give an immigrant in Germany?

Once you have spent a certain amount of time living and working in Germany on a temporary residence permit, you can apply for a permanent settlement permit. As the name suggests, this type of residence permit grants you the right to stay indefinitely in Germany and gives you free access to the labor market.

What are the requirements to get permanent residency in Germany?

The criteria to apply for PR in Germany are:

  • Duration of stay

You can apply for permanent residency in Germany if you stay for five to eight years. If you have a legal residence permit for study or work, you can apply for Germany PR or permanent residency.

If you have graduated from a university in Germany, you can apply for the country’s PR. You can submit your application after you have stayed here for two years, provided you have a residence permit to work in the country.

Citizens of a country that is part of the European Union are eligible for PR in Germany.

If you have an EU Blue Card, you can apply for the PR after employment in Germany for 21-33 months.

If you are a person with self-employment and a permit for residence, you can apply for a PR after you have completed three years in the country. You need to prove that you have sufficient funds to cover your expenses.

If you are a highly skilled worker with an annual income of more than 84,000 Euros, you can apply for the PR.

  • Professional qualification

If you have high qualifications, advanced technical knowledge, or experience in academic teaching or research, you can apply for the PR immediately.

  • Proof of job offer
  • Ability to support yourself financially

Ability to adjust to the German culture 

  • Knowledge of the German language

Understanding and speaking the B1 level of the German language is mandatory to obtain PR. It would help if you had a basic knowledge of German society, like its social, legal, and political system.

  • Contribution to pension insurance

You need to contribute some monetary amount to the German statutory pension insurance funds for a PR application. The period for which you contribute varies with the category you belong to. If you are from the general classification, you need to contribute to the fund for 60 months.

If you have an EU Blue Card, you need to contribute for 33 months to the fund.

If you have graduated, you need to contribute for 24 months.

What are the requirements to get permanent residency in Germany?

The criteria to apply for PR in Germany are:

  • Duration of stay

You can apply for permanent residency in Germany if you stay for five to eight years. If you have a legal residence permit for study or work, you can apply for Germany PR or permanent residency.

If you have graduated from a university in Germany, you can apply for the country’s PR. You can submit your application after you have stayed here for two years, provided you have a residence permit to work in the country.

Citizens of a country that is part of the European Union are eligible for PR in Germany.

If you have an EU Blue Card, you can apply for the PR after employment in Germany for 21-33 months.

If you are a person with self-employment and a permit for residence, you can apply for a PR after you have completed three years in the country. You need to prove that you have sufficient funds to cover your expenses.

If you are a highly skilled worker with an annual income of more than 84,000 Euros, you can apply for the PR.

  • Professional qualification

If you have high qualifications, advanced technical knowledge, or experience in academic teaching or research, you can apply for the PR immediately.

  • Proof of job offer
  • Ability to support yourself financially

Ability to adjust to the German culture 

  • Knowledge of the German language

Understanding and speaking the B1 level of the German language is mandatory to obtain PR. It would help if you had a basic knowledge of German society, like its social, legal, and political system.

  • Contribution to pension insurance

You need to contribute some monetary amount to the German statutory pension insurance funds for a PR application. The period for which you contribute varies with the category you belong to. If you are from the general classification, you need to contribute to the fund for 60 months.

If you have an EU Blue Card, you need to contribute for 33 months to the fund.

If you have graduated, you need to contribute for 24 months.

What are the other means to secure permanent residency?

There are two ways through which you can be granted permanent residency:

  1. Marriage: If your spouse is a citizen of Germany, has been granted citizenship for the past two years, or has lived there for above three years, you can apply for the PR.
  2. Birth: The children born to foreign citizens in Germany can apply for permanent residency.

What are the eligibility conditions and documents required to apply for permanent residency in Germany?

Eligibility conditions to apply for permanent residency

You have a passport and visa

You can meet your maintenance costs without taking the help of public funds. These costs will include:

  • Enough income to support you and your family
  • Price for accommodation and health insurance

No reason exists for your deportation

Have health insurance

You will be able to integrate with the living conditions in the country

Required documents

When applying for permanent residency, you must submit the following documents:

  • Passport and visa
  • Your job offer letter that proves you can support yourself and your family
  • Proof of educational and professional qualifications
  • Proof of accommodation

Processing time

The processing time for permanent residency is usually four to six weeks.

What are the benefits of having permanent residency in Germany?

The benefits of having a PR visa are many.

  1. Once you get your PR visa, there is no need to contact the local Foreigners Office (Ausländerbehörde) for approval or permission to change your house or job to extend your visa.
  2. With a permanent residence permit, you can apply for any job or look for employment even though it may not be related to your studies. If you are in Germany on an ordinary visa or a jobseeker visa, you will not be allowed to apply or take up a job unrelated to your profession.
  3. With a PR visa, you are eligible to start your own business or startup in Germany. The good news is that the German government gives many incentives to startups.
  4. With a PR visa, you are entitled to social benefits such as childcare benefits, healthcare benefits, and welfare benefits if you lose your job or are laid off.
  5. A PR visa holder gets the benefit of being able to study any course of his choice in a German university, for which he can get a scholarship or financial aid if required.
  6. Freedom of movement within the EU countries is possible for PR visa countries. They require no visa to visit or work in any other European country under the EU.
  7. PR visa holders have easy access to bank loans if they want to buy a house in Germany.

What are the rules for non-EU nationals under the German Skilled Migration Act?

The German Skilled Immigration Act aims to provide easier access to the German labor market for skilled workers from non-EU countries, enabling them to gain employment in Germany, even in jobs that might be filled by Germans or EU nationals, and allows foreigners to come to Germany for up to half a year to seek work.

The act also seeks to raise labor force numbers in Germany as many jobs remain vacant due to a lack of skills and employees.

The act has broadened the scope of those now deemed eligible professionals to migrate to Germany for work.

Besides those with a degree in tertiary education, non-EU nationals qualifying for vocational training after a training course of two years are considered qualified professionals and eligible to work in Germany.

Furthermore, to be able to work legally in Germany, the worker must meet the following conditions:

  • He must have official recognition of their foreign qualification by the relevant authority in Germany.
  • He should have a work contract/offer from an employer in Germany related to their qualification area.

Previously, non-EU employees were not permitted to get a job that a German or EU national worker could fill, and this is no longer the case. In this respect, the Federal Jobs Department is no longer carrying out priority checks.

In addition, the new rules widen the fields of jobs for foreign employees, enabling them to work in a career that is not usually their field of study.

They can also work in jobs for which a degree in tertiary education is not compulsory and in other skill-related professions for which a vocational, non-academic qualification is generally required.

As trained professionals with vocational qualifications, i.e., non-academic training, their jobs are no longer limited to occupations for which there is a shortage of skilled individuals from the EU.

Persons who have obtained a negative response that their qualification does not entirely fulfill German qualification criteria now have an option.

They can come to Germany with a visa for training and skill development if they have the necessary A2 level in the German language.

Such visa results in a residence permit valid for 18 months, which can be extended for another four months, and the possibility of applying for a residence permit for training, study, or work before its validity ends.

What are the reasons to study in Germany?

  • No tuition fees in most universities, while others have minimum tuition fees
  • Highly skilled staff providing world-class teaching
  • Choice of hundreds of academic courses
  • Affordable living costs
  • Students from around the world build cultural diversity
  • Opportunity to learn German Language
  • Various options to work in the country once your course is over

What are the types of German student visas?

There are three types of German student visas you can apply for:

German Student Visa: This is a visa for international students who have gained admission to a German University for a full-time study program.

German Student Applicant Visa: You will need this visa if you must apply in person for admission to a university course, but you cannot study in Germany with this visa.

German Language Course Visa:  You will need this visa if you want to study for a German language course in Germany.

Visa Requirements

Completed and signed visa application form

Valid passport

Two photocopies of your passport

Your birth certificate of birth

Your recent passport-size photos

Proof of financial Resources

What are the crucial steps to follow if you wish to study in Germany?

Choose your university

Germany has many universities offering a wide variety of courses. You must choose the right course and university. You can take the help of the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD), which has a database of almost 2,000 programs available in Germany.

Check if you meet the admission requirements.

Check that the university accepts your current qualifications before applying.

You will also need to review the language specifications. Most courses are taught in German, requiring foreign applicants to show proof of their skills in the German language.

If your course is taught in English, you will have to take a test such as IELTS or TOEFL. Universities will usually state the score/s they require on their websites.

Provide evidence of having enough financial requirements

You may need to prove that you have the required annual funds to cover your living expenses. 

Apply to the selected universities

You should apply directly to the university’s Foreign Office for most courses. Alternatively, you can use the website www.uni-assist.de, a centralized international student admissions portal run by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD), but not all universities use this. You may need to apply separately for various courses and universities to improve your chances of being accepted by the university.

Many German universities may apply for admission twice a year, either in the winter semester or summer. As a general rule, applications for winter registration must be made by 15 July, and applications for summer registration by 15 January.

Submit the required documents

Every university will have its requirements for documents, but the general documents required by universities are:

  • Copy of your high-school diploma or previous degrees and any other relevant qualifications
  • Passport photo
  • Copy of your passport
  • Proof of language proficiency
  • Receipt of payment of application fee

Get your health insurance.

Health care insurance is mandatory in Germany for international students. Thus, it would be best if you got health insurance to cover your medical needs in case of emergency in Germany. You will have to pursue your student health insurance coverage before enrollment at your university.

Get the appropriate student visa

Apply for the appropriate visa with the required documents. There are different visa requirements for graduate, postgraduate, exchange, or doctorate studies for various study programs. You may even need a visa to participate in a pre-academic course or a non-academic German language course.

What are the eligibility requirements to get German citizenship?

Eligibility requirements for German citizenship

  • You must have a residence permit
  • You must have had a place of residence in Germany for at least eight years
  • It would be best if you had enough finances to support yourself and your dependents without relying on social welfare
  • Have enough knowledge of German culture to pass the national naturalization test
  • Have the required proficiency in the German language at least till the B1 level
  • Have no criminal convictions

What are the ways to get German citizenship?

Ways to get German citizenship

There are three ways to become a German citizen:

  1. Citizenship by naturalization
  2. Citizenship by birth
  3. Citizenship by descent

Every applicant for citizenship except those belonging to the EU, EEA, or Switzerland must meet these requirements to become a German citizen.

  1. Citizenship by naturalization

Most expatriates applying for German citizenship can apply for citizenship by naturalization. The requirements to apply under this category include the general eligibility requirements given above. Apart from this, applicants will have to pass a citizenship test.

This test contains 33 questions on different topics like ‘Living in a democracy,’ History and responsibility, etc.

Apart from this, you will have to answer specific questions about the state where you live. You will have to answer at least 17 questions correct if you must pass, and you can retake the test if you don’t qualify. If you pass the test, you will be given a naturalization certificate.

Children below 16 are not required to give the test. Individuals with disability, sickness, or old age are exempt from passing the test.

Those with a postgraduate degree in politics, law, or social science are exempted from giving the test.

You can qualify for citizenship by naturalization by marrying a German citizen. The conditions to obtain citizenship by this method include:

The couple must have been married for at least two years and must have lived in Germany for at least three years. Apart from this, they will have to meet the other naturalization requirements.

  1. Citizenship by birth

If an individual is born in Germany, he will automatically be eligible for German citizenship. This is citizenship by ‘right of soil.’ However, if an individual is born in Germany, neither parent is German. There are some additional requirements for citizenship, at least one parent must have lived in Germany for eight years or must be a permanent resident or a Swiss national.

  1. Citizenship by descent

You will be automatically entitled to German citizenship if one of your parents is a German citizen. A child below 18 years adopted by German parents also becomes a German citizen.

Does Germany offer dual citizenship?

Dual citizenship is generally not offered by the German government. You will have to give up your original citizenship once you become a German citizen. Dual citizenship is available only to specific special categories.

What is the German Family Reunion visa?

The German government allows immigrants from non-EU countries working in the country to bring their family members to the country on a temporary or permanent basis.

The German government supports the reunification of families. They have a special visa known as the German Family Reunion Visa.

 Eligibility requirements for the visa:

Immigrant workers wishing to bring their family members to Germany must meet the following conditions:

  • Have enough income to support them and their family
  • Have enough funds to provide housing for the family
  • Family members must have a basic understanding of the German language
  • Children must be below 18 years
  • Have a temporary or permanent residence permit or an EU Blue Card
  • Have enough health insurance for them and their family members

Exceptions:

  • Your spouse or partner will not require a visa or knowledge of German to come to the country under the following conditions:
  • You have an EU Blue Card.
  • You are working in Germany as a research scientist or highly qualified worker.
  • Your partner has a university degree.

Working on a family visa

According to German law, any adult who comes to Germany on a family reunion visa will be allowed to work. However, there are a few conditions that the relative they are joining must comply with:

  • Must have a residence permit that authorizes employment
  • Must have an EU Blue Card

Must be a highly skilled person or be employed as a researcher

What are the work options for international students in Germany?

Non-EU students have restrictions on the number of days they can work during their course. They can work for 120 full days during a year or 240 half days.

If you have taken up a job as a student assistant or research assistant at your university, it is not accounted for in the 120-day limit. Still, you will have to notify the Alien Registration Office about this work.

Similarly, if you are doing an internship during the break between semesters, it is considered routine work and is accounted for in the 120 days. But if the internship is part of the course, it is not accounted for as work.

However, non-EU students cannot be self-employed or do freelance work during their studies.

Students belonging to EU nations can work up to 20 hours per week like the local German students.

Non-EU students should get a work permit from the “Agentur fur Arbeit” (Federal Employment Agency) and the foreigners’ authority. The permit will detail the maximum hours of work a student can do.

Jobs students can do

Teaching or research Assistants at the university

The working hours and wages are far better for university jobs. These jobs are open to research scholars, and you can get decent pay for them. In this job, you will help professors mark copies, prepare research work or give tutorials. You can even work in the library. But to get these jobs, you must apply well ahead. These jobs are notified on the university notice board.

Waiters at cafés, bars, etc.

This is a popular option among students for many reasons. It allows students to meet new people and interact with the local population. Apart from the salary, they can earn good tips too.

English Tutors

International students can make use of opportunities to teach English to German students. These jobs offer decent pay, but you should be proficient in English.

Industrial Production Assistants

This is a good option for students looking for jobs that offer significant experience related to what they are studying.

Can you work while you are studying in Germany?

The good news is that students can work on a student visa in Germany, but they cannot work for more than 20 hours per week during the course. But they can work full-time during vacations.

Non-EU students have restrictions on the number of days they can work during their course. They can work for 120 full days during a year or 240 half days.

If you have taken up a job as a student assistant or research assistant at your university, it is not accounted for in the 120-day limit. Still, you will have to notify the Alien Registration Office about this work.

Similarly, if you are doing an internship during the break between semesters, it is considered routine work and is accounted for in the 120 days. But if the internship is part of the course, it is not accounted for as work.

However, non-EU students cannot be self-employed or do freelance work during their studies.

Students belonging to EU nations can work up to 20 hours per week like the local German students. Exceeding this limit requires students to pay for the German social security system.

Students doing a language course or a preparatory course for their first-year graduate program can work in lecture-free periods. They should have consent from the Federal Employment Agency or the foreigners’ authority.

Non-EU students should get a work permit from the “Agentur fur Arbeit” (Federal Employment Agency) and the foreigners’ authority. The permit will detail the maximum hours of work a student can work for.

You can check with the regional Employment agency, the Bundesagentur für Arbeit, for any work opportunities. You can also prevent ads in newspapers and online portals for any job openings.

You can hope to earn a tax-free income of 450 Euros per month. If your income exceeds this amount, you will receive an income tax number, and there will be automatic deductions from your salary.

What are the options to move to Germany without a job offer?

Till recently you could move to Germany without a job with a jobseeker visa. This visa gave you six months to stay in Germany and look for a job failing which you had to return to your home country.

However, with the Skilled Workers Immigration Act coming into force, the possibilities for the immigration of skilled workers from non-academic or vocational training from many non-EU countries can migrate to Germany for work.

There are also certain relaxation in the existing rules regarding the conditions for qualified professionals with university degrees.

From March 2020, professionals with a vocational training qualification can also go to Germany for looking for a job. The pre-condition, in this case, is that the foreign qualification must be recognized by the corresponding body in Germany.

Also, the person must have funds for supporting himself during the entire duration of stay. They must also have necessary skills in the German language – usually B-1 level in the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).

A prominent change to be introduced by the Skilled Workers Immigration Act is that during the time spent in Germany for job-hunting, you will also be allowed to work on a trial basis. You can work for a maximum of 10 hours per week on a trial basis while in Germany on a job seeker visa.

Before the Skilled Workers Immigration Act came into force, you could only look for a job on a job seeker visa. You were not allowed to take up any work as such.

Starting your own business

You can move to Germany without a job if you intend to start your own business. You will need to apply for a residence permit and permission to start your business. You will need a self-employment visa if you are coming to Germany temporarily and for business purposes.

Before approving your visa, the authorities will check the feasibility of your business idea, review your business plan and your previous experience in business.

They will check if you have the capital to start your business and if your business has the potential to meet economic or regional needs in Germany. If your business is successful you can get unlimited extension for your residence permit

What are the options to move to Germany without a job offer?

Till recently you could move to Germany without a job with a jobseeker visa. This visa gave you six months to stay in Germany and look for a job failing which you had to return to your home country.

However, with the Skilled Workers Immigration Act coming into force, the possibilities for the immigration of skilled workers from non-academic or vocational training from many non-EU countries can migrate to Germany for work.

There are also certain relaxation in the existing rules regarding the conditions for qualified professionals with university degrees.

From March 2020, professionals with a vocational training qualification can also go to Germany for looking for a job. The pre-condition, in this case, is that the foreign qualification must be recognized by the corresponding body in Germany.

Also, the person must have funds for supporting himself during the entire duration of stay. They must also have necessary skills in the German language – usually B-1 level in the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).

A prominent change to be introduced by the Skilled Workers Immigration Act is that during the time spent in Germany for job-hunting, you will also be allowed to work on a trial basis. You can work for a maximum of 10 hours per week on a trial basis while in Germany on a job seeker visa.

Before the Skilled Workers Immigration Act came into force, you could only look for a job on a job seeker visa. You were not allowed to take up any work as such.

Starting your own business

You can move to Germany without a job if you intend to start your own business. You will need to apply for a residence permit and permission to start your business. You will need a self-employment visa if you are coming to Germany temporarily and for business purposes.

Before approving your visa, the authorities will check the feasibility of your business idea, review your business plan and your previous experience in business.

They will check if you have the capital to start your business and if your business has the potential to meet economic or regional needs in Germany. If your business is successful you can get unlimited extension for your residence permit

What are the IELTS requirements for work visas in Germany?

Applicants for the various work visas in Germany have a doubt whether they need to have a certain level of English language proficiency to qualify for the visa. They are not sure is they must score minimum bands in the IELTS to be eligible for these visas.

The good news is IELTS is not required to qualify for a German work visa.

The English language requirements are dependent on the type of job you are applying for. If the job is for a position that involves travelling around the world, then a certain level of English proficiency is required.

Working for a multinational company in Germany or a German multinational will require a certain level of proficiency. The right educational qualification, work experience and a basic knowledge of German will improve your prospects of finding a job here.

In such cases, it would be no harm to get an IELTS certification which is a validation of your English proficiency. An IELTS certification will give you an edge over other applicants for the job.

Taking the professional IELTS exam and scoring well will give you better work opportunities since it can act as a validation of your global communication skills.

Apart from this, a minimum level of proficiency in German with a B2 or C1 level will improve your chances of finding a job here. You will have an edge over other job seekers who have no knowledge of the language.

English language proficiency in the form of IELTS is not an eligibility requirement for work visas in Germany. However, having an IELTS certification will significantly increase your job opportunities.

Which visa will I need to study in Germany?

There are 3 visas that a foreign student can apply to for study purposes in Germany. These are –

1. German Language Course Visa

2. Student Applicant Visa (Visum Zur Studienbewerbung)

3. Student Visa (Visum Zu Studienzwecken)

1.German Language Course Visa

This visa is for learning the German language while living in Germany. This visa is issued to foreigners for the purpose of completing an intensive language course that is between 3 to 12 months in duration.

Such an intensive language course in Germany must contain a minimum of 18 hours lessons in a week.

Do note that a language course visa might be extended to up to a maximum of 1 year in certain cases, provided, however, that the intension for attending the course is not to take up any further education in Germany.

If you wish to continue your studies further on the completion of your language course in Germany, you will have to apply for a Germany student visa. To apply for a Germany student visa, you will have to return to your home country and apply from there.

2.Student Applicant Visa or Visum Zur Studienbewerbung

This is for those foreign-born students that –

· Have applied for university courses

· Not been officially admitted to the concerned university

In many such cases, additional admission requirements have to be complied with – attending an interview or clearing an examination – for the enrollment to be confirmed.

Simply put, the student applicant visa is specifically for those international students that are required to be in Germany for appearing for acceptance exams for the university that they have applied to.

For a student applicant visa, you will have to apply at the German Embassy or Consulate in your country.

Validity of this visa is 3 months. An extension of 6 more months can be given. That is, you can live in Germany for a total of 9 months on a student applicant visa. If, by the end of the 9 months’ allotted duration, you have not secured admission to any institution, you will be required to leave Germany.

If, on the other hand, you are successful in gaining admission into a university in Germany, you will have to apply for a student visa instead. You do not have to exit Germany for being able to apply for your German student visa.

A student applicant visa lets you enter Germany for complying with the additional requirements pertaining to your intended course of study in Germany. As you cannot apply for a student visa in the absence of any formal evidence of admission in a university in Germany, you will have to go to Germany on a student applicant visa instead and complete the formalities.

Do keep in mind that once you are in Germany on a student applicant visa, you can apply for a Germany residence permit for studies without the requirement of having to return to your home country.

3.Student Visa (Visum Zu Studienzwecken)

You will have to apply for a German student visa if you have already been accepted to a German university.

The German student visa is the standard visa for international students who have been formally admitted to a university in Germany and are ready to commence with their full-time studies in the country.

What are the factors for Permanent Residency application for Germany?

1. Duration of stay

You can apply for a permanent residence permit if you have been in Germany for five years or more. If you are working or studying in Germany with a legal residence permit, you can apply for your German PR visa.

As a graduate from a German university, you are eligible for a PR visa provided you have worked in Germany for two years on a residence permit post the completion of your studies.

If you have an EU Blue Card, you can apply for a PR visa after working in the country for 21-33 months.

If you are a self-employed person with a temporary residence permit, you can apply for a PR after three years. But you must prove that you can financially support yourself for a long-term.

1. Income and Professional Qualification

If you are a highly qualified worker with the specified annual income, then you can apply for a Germany PR immediately.

If you have special technical knowledge or are involved in academic teaching or research, then you can get your PR immediately. For this you should have:

· Proof of your job offer

· Financial means to support yourself

· Ability to adapt to the local culture

2. Knowledge of German Language

Knowledge of the German language is necessary to obtain PR. B1 level of German is required which will be quite easy if you have lived in the country for more than

two years. Apart from this you need to have some knowledge of German society such as its legal, social and political system.

3. Contribution to pension insurance

For making a PR application, you should have contributed to the statutory pension insurance of Germany. The duration of the contribution varies with the criteria you belong to. If you belong to the general category you should have contributed to the fund for at least 60 months.

If you have an EU Blue Card, you should have contributed to the fund for 33 months and if you are a graduate your contribution should be for 24 months.

Other ways to secure permanent residency

If you are married to a German citizen for more than two years and have lived in the country for more than three years, you are eligible to apply for Germany PR.

Children born in Germany to foreign citizens can apply for permanent residency.

What are the jobs an international student can do while studying in Germany?

Teaching or research Assistants at the university

These jobs are open to research scholars and you can get a decent pay for them. In this job you will help professors in marking copies, prepare research work or give tutorials. You can even work in the library. But to get these jobs you must apply well ahead. These jobs are notified on the university notice board. The working hours and wages are far better for university jobs.

Waiters at café’s, bars, etc.

This is a popular option among students for many reasons. It gives students an opportunity to meet new people and interact with the local population. Apart from the salary, they can earn good tips too.

Office Assistant

Your primary responsibilities will be to answer the phone, provide information to the company’s customers or partners, among other administrative duties.

Retail store assistant

Your role will involve assisting customers with details and choosing the right product they are looking for. t Strong communication skills would be helpful for you.

Babysitter

This job might be the right match for you if you like kids and have at least a bit of experience working with them.  This job is well paying.

Call center officer

You will have to answer the phone, evaluate and handle client requests or grievances. You have to be polite and diplomatic, and you have to have interpersonal abilities. A strong understanding of German is also a must, and you can make your own schedule most of the time.

 Field interviewer

Some businesses or organizations often require data collectors who have to ask consumers about their opinions on goods or services, which would inevitably lead to a survey.

English Tutors

International students can make use of opportunities to teach English to German students. These jobs offer a decent pay, but you should be proficient in the English language.

Industrial Production Assistants

This is a good option for students looking for jobs that offer significant experience and is related to what they are studying. These jobs are well-paying and could help you find a career in Germany post the completion of your course. These jobs are advertised in local newspapers.

What are the work visa options to work in Germany?

Before you come to Germany for work, you must apply for a work and residence permit. For this you must have a job offer from a German employer. You can apply for your work and residence permit at the German embassy or consulate in your country.

Your application must include the following:

  • Job offer letter from the firm in Germany
  • Valid passport
  • Annexure for an employment permit
  • Certificates of academic qualification
  • Certificates of work experience
  • Approval letter from the Federal Employment Agency

If you intend to bring your family to Germany with you, the following conditions apply:

  • Your children must be below 18
  • Your income must be sufficient to support you and your family
  • You must be able to provide housing for your family

EU Blue card

You are eligible for the EU blue card if you have a graduate or undergraduate degree from a recognized university and are moving to the country on a job that pays the stipulated annual gross salary.

You can get the EU Blue Card if you have graduated from a German university or are a highly qualified student in the area of either mathematics, IT, life sciences or engineering or are a medical professional. Your salary needs to be on par with German workers.

Jobseeker visa

The Jobseeker visa was introduced to solve the problem of skills shortage in several areas. With this visa, you can come and stay in Germany for six months and look for a job.

Eligibility requirements for a Jobseeker visa

  • Minimum of five years of work experience in a job related to your area of study
  • Proof that you have 15 years of regular education
  • Proof that you have enough funds for a six-month stay in Germany
  • Proof that you have accommodation for the six months you will be in the country

Language requirements for work permits

The good news is that IELTSis not required to qualify for a German work visa.

However, the English language requirements can vary based on the type of job you are applying for. For instance, if the job requires travelling to other countries, then a certain level of English proficiency is required.

However, a basic knowledge of German will improve your prospects of finding a job here.

Work visa options

If you already have a job offer in Germany and are a graduate or post-graduate, then you can apply for an EU Blue Card before you move to the country. But the easiest way to get a work visa in Germany is to apply for the Jobseeker visa.

What are the qualifications required for Skilled workers?

• You may be granted a residency title for skilled workers which allows you to work.

• If your international diploma or certificate has been recognised by the government.

• If you’ve already been offered a job, you’ll need to ask your prospective employer to fill out the “Declaration about a contract of employment” (Erklärungzum Beschäftigungsverhältnis).

• If you have received written permission to practise your occupation (or have been expressly told that you will obtain this permission) and plan to work in a so-called regulated profession (such as health care).

• If you meet the relevant foreigner requirements, such as having a valid passport and a stable means of support, etc.

Do not apply for a visa until you have completed all of the requirements and can include a full collection of supporting documentation. Your visa application will not be approved if your international degree or qualification has not yet been officially recognized.

What are the required documents for student visa application?

Completed and signed visa application form

Valid passport

Two photocopies of your passport

Your certificate of birth

Your marriage certificate (If applicable).

Your child’s certificate of birth (If applicable)

Your recent passport-size photos (Upto 3)

Photocopies of previous German residence titles. (If applicable)

Previous Schengen visa

Previous German resident permit

Proof of Financial Resources “Finanzierungsnachweis” which can be any one of the following:

• €10,236 deposit confirmation at a German blocked bank account.

• Letter of commitment and evidence of your parent’s income records and financial assets.

• Letter of commitment by a German resident “Verpflichtungserklärung”. This letter is taken at the Alien’s Registration Office, by the German resident who will sponsor your costs during your studies.

• Scholarship certificate that shows how much amount of your studies it covers

• Bank guarantee issued by a recognized German bank.

Proof of University Admission

• Confirmation of admission studies “Zulassungsbescheid” that is issued by a recognized higher education provider in Germany, that has the date of commencement of yours studies and the medium of instruction.

• Proof of conditional admission “BedingterZulassungsbescheid” and a confirmed intensive course “Intensiv-Sprachkurs”. This is a letter confirming your participation in an intensive language course before you get the final confirmation of your university admission. getting the final university admission. The course must last more than 6 months, with not less than 18 hours of lessons in a week.

• Proof of conditional university admission.

• Letter from “uni-assist”.

• Confirmation of admission as an applicant.

• Communication with the university, regarding conditions for final admission.

• Proof of having paid fees for the language course accompanied by a confirmed place in the course. The payment must cover at least 3 first months.

• Confirmation of admission in a university preparatory course “Studienkolleg”.

• Confirmation that you are a participant in the course.

• Evidence of your earlier education.

• Original school-leaving certificate.

• Degree certificate. (If you’re entering Master or PhD studies).

• Student Health Insurance.

• University entrance qualification.

• Certificate of German or English Language Proficiency.

How much does a Germany family reunion visa cost?

In most cases, an adult long-term family reunion visa (category D) costs 75,00 Euros, while children under the age of 18 pay 37,50 Euros.

If you decide to cancel your application after paying the fees, you will not be entitled to a refund. If your visa application is rejected, you will not be reimbursed. If you want to reapply for the visa, you’ll have to pay the fee again.

What is the processing time for the family reunion visa?

The processing time for the family reunion visas can take a few weeks to a few months. This depends on when the appointment for the interview at the German embassy is scheduled once the application is submitted.

How can you bring your dependent children to Germany?

The requirements to bring a child to Germany may change depending on the age of the children.

Minor children

If both parents live in Germany, they may apply for their child to be brought over. A single parent, on the other hand, is allowed to bring their minor child to Germany if he or she has sole custody and care of the child.

Adult children

To be qualified for a Family Reunion Visa, the child must not be married. However, this does not exclude her or him from applying for a different type of visa, such as a German visitor or tourist visa, a student visa to study in Germany, or an employment visa to work in Germany.

Requirements to sponsor children

  • Certificate of birth
  • Proof of the child’s nationality
  • Evidence of the parent who is living in Germany who has the right to care and custody

How can you bring your dependent children to Germany?

The requirements to bring a child to Germany may change depending on the age of the children.

Minor children

If both parents live in Germany, they may apply for their child to be brought over. A single parent, on the other hand, is allowed to bring their minor child to Germany if he or she has sole custody and care of the child.

Adult children

To be qualified for a Family Reunion Visa, the child must not be married. However, this does not exclude her or him from applying for a different type of visa, such as a German visitor or tourist visa, a student visa to study in Germany, or an employment visa to work in Germany.

Requirements to sponsor children

  • Certificate of birth
  • Proof of the child’s nationality
  • Evidence of the parent who is living in Germany who has the right to care and custody

Is it possible to obtain permanent residence in Germany if I have just been in Germany for less than five years?

Yes, there are a few exceptions that allow non-EU citizens to become permanent residents in Germany in less than five years: 

Highly qualified professionals — After arriving in Germany, some highly qualified professionals may be able to obtain a permanent settlement visa immediately. Specialist scientists, senior researchers, and teachers are all affected. Applicants must first have a job offer in Germany in order to apply for settlement through this route.

Graduates of studies or vocational training in Germany –As stated by the BAMF, “You will receive a settlement permit if you have successfully completed domestic vocational training or a domestic degree, have had a residence permit for employment as a specialist (with vocational training or academic training) or as a researcher for two years, have a job, 24 months of compulsory pension insurance contributions and have sufficient knowledge of the German language”.

Self-employed individuals – Applicants who are self-employed and can demonstrate a track record of success in business as well as sufficient income for themselves and their family members may be eligible for permanent residence after just three years. Only business owners (Gewerbetreibende) and not freelancers are eligible for this accelerated program.

EU Blue Card holders- Applicants with an EU Blue Card (typically granted to highly qualified workers from outside the EU) may be eligible to apply for German permanent residence after 33 months if they have a basic understanding of the German language and have remained employed and paid pension contributions during that time.

You can gain permanent residency after only 21 months if you have “adequate” German language skills (passing the CEFR level B1 German language exam). It is vital to note that only time spent residing in Germany will be counted toward rapid settlement under the EU Blue Card route.

Non-EU immediate family members of German citizen – Non-EU family members of German citizens (spouses, partners, children, and parents) will be able to apply for and get permanent residence after only three years if they follow this path. Applicants must have a basic command of the German language and must be living with a German citizen.

What is the application process for permanent residency?

You must first fill out an application for permanent residence in Germany (Antrag auf Erteilung der Niederlassungserlaubnis). You will also need to bring your current valid passport, a digital photo, evidence of income (e.g., six months’ worth of payslips), proof of health insurance, proof of payment to the German pension system, evidence of address/registration, and proof of health insurance., information about your lodging, proof of your German language skills, and evidence of payment of the application fee. Other documents, such as a German degree certificate, birth/marriage certificates, and your professional license, may be required depending on your chosen path.

In many circumstances, potential applicants can choose to apply through expedited routes. Once you’ve decided on the best path to permanent residence in Germany, make sure you understand the application requirements and provide all of the requested information and documents (in the correct format and, if necessary, translated) to increase your chances of receiving a favorable decision as quickly as possible.

Why is migration important to Germany?

Migrants have an essential role in the economic and social growth of Germany. The need for skilled labor has made skilled migrants come to Germany. In the last ten years, the government of Germany has put significant efforts into integrating immigrants. This is done to address the shortage of skilled workers in critical sectors.

Germany lacks skilled workers in its democracy for many occupations. Experts have issued a warning that it would see a shortage of skilled workers of three million workers by 2030. An increase in the population of aged citizens and the declining birth rates are the primary cause of the shortage.

After the Germany reunification in 1990, it saw high numbers of immigrants to the country. The advantageous economic situation and stable conditions in the labor market aided immigration. The immigration figures reached their peak in 1992.

Only during the recession of 2008-2009 did Germany see fewer numbers of immigrants. In this period, the migration rate was negative. The last time it happened was in 1984.

What are the advantages of migrating to Germany?

More than 9 million foreign nationals live in Germany. The country is the 2nd most famous destination globally, after the USA. Each year thousands of foreign nationals immigrate to Germany for a better future. People of different nationalities, educations, religions, and professions contribute to the cultural mosaic of Germany. Some of the factors that contribute to immigration to Germany are

  • The extensive market for jobs for professionals in the technology, engineering, and manufacturing sectors
  • Lucrative benefits for the residents, which includes free education and healthcare
  • German cities are consistently ranked among the ‘World’s Most Livable Cities.
  • The industries in Germany face a shortage of skilled workers. It creates job opportunities for immigrants.
  • Germany has one of the most speedy visa processing facilities
  • Good pay,
  • Good benefits
  • Access to the European Union after you get your visa
  • Germany has the largest population in Western Europe

The most influential economy in Europe

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