- Download our Moving to Germany Guide (PDF)
Over the last few years, it's become difficult for non-EU nationals without specialist skills to find employment or get work permits for Germany.
While the government has implemented policies to protect jobs for locals, citizens from certain EU member states have the right to live and work in Germany without restriction. But those hoping to stay for longer than three months will need to get a residency permit. Those who have sought-after skills may qualify for a specialist professional residence permit.
EU citizens can work in Germany without a work permit and will only need to register their presence in Germany. If you are from outside the EU, you must apply for one of several types of work permits for Germany.
General employment permit for Germany
If you apply for a general employment permit (arbeit), you need a firm offer of employment from a German company and a vocational qualification.
The general employment permit is fairly difficult to obtain, mainly because the German government prefers jobs to be given to German nationals wherever possible – so employers have to justify why a foreign national would be more suitable for the job.
Specialist professional residence permit for Germany
Several expats can apply for a specialist professional residence permit for Germany. Most applicants are graduates with specialist skills. University professors, managers with numerous years of experience, and those with very specific skills can also apply for this type of permit.
It would help if applicants could prove they have German language skills. They must also prove that they have sufficient funds to support themselves while in the country, have a firm offer of employment, and can submit their degrees and qualifications.
Self-employed residence permit for Germany
The third type of work permit is for those who are self-employed, are freelancers or planning to set up a business. To get a self-employed residence permit, applicants must demonstrate how their specific skills are required in the particular area of Germany they plan on settling down in.
Those who want to set up a business need to show that their business will positively contribute to the local economy – by employing local staff, for instance. Applicants must also prove they can fund the startup of their business, as there are limited business funding opportunities for non-German nationals.
If you're planning to apply for this type of visa, you should draw up a detailed business plan illustrating its long-term goals and the steps you'll take to achieve them. It's likely to be in your favour if you have a similar business elsewhere.
Self-employed residence permits are usually granted for three years to allow the business to get off the ground. When it comes to renewal, the permit will be extended indefinitely if the applicant can prove it's been a success.
Useful links
*Visa and work permit regulations are subject to change at short notice, and expats should contact their respective embassy or consulate for the latest details.
What do expats say about visa and work permit processes in Germany?
"I did not have a problem with a visa. My company’s headquarters is in Germany and they took care of the paperwork as part of the transfer process of getting me from Chicago to Germany."
For more on Marisa's experiences as an American expat in Germany, read our interview with her.
"Well, getting the visa and work permit was an exercise in patience. And bureaucracy. I also write about this in my book."
Learn more about moving to Germany in our interview with Phil an expat from New Zealand.
Further reading
►Learn about German business etiquette and work culture in Working in Germany.
Are you an expat living in Germany?
Expat Arrivals is looking for locals to contribute to this guide, and answer forum questions from others planning their move to Germany. Please contact us if you'd like to contribute.
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