Employment Visa Application Guide #

So, you’ve made the brave decision to start a new chapter in Germany — amazing! Whether you’re seeking better career opportunities, lifestyle, or international experience, getting a German work visa is your first step. And yes, it can seem daunting, but don’t worry — we’ll break it down step by step.

What Is a German Work Visa? #

The German work visa is a type of national visa (D-Visa) that allows non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens to live and work in Germany. It’s tied to a residence permit for employment and doesn’t automatically allow you to work elsewhere in the EU.

Germany issues various types of work permits depending on:

• General employment
• Highly skilled/specialist employment (including the EU Blue Card)
• Temporary work (e.g. internships, au pair)
• Freelance and self-employment
• Job-seeking

Step-by-Step: How to Apply for a German Work Visa #

1. Get a Job Offer
   You need a job offer or employment contract from a German employer. It should align with your qualifications and ideally fall under Germany’s “shortage occupations” (IT, engineering, medicine, etc.).
2. Check Recognition of Your Qualifications
   Germany must recognize your foreign degree. Here’s how to check:
   • Use the Anabin database to see if your degree and university are recognized.
   • If not listed, apply for a Statement of Comparability from the Central Office for Foreign Education (ZAB).
3. Know Which Visa You Qualify For
   • General Work Visa
     You qualify if:
     • You have a job offer
     • Your qualifications match the job
     • Your salary meets the local standards
     • The Federal Employment Agency (ZAV) approves the employment
   • EU Blue Card
     You qualify if:
     • You have a higher education degree
     • You earn at least:
       • €48,300/year (standard)
       • Or €43,800/year (for shortage occupations like IT, science, etc.)
     • Your job aligns with your education
     • Your working conditions match German standards

     Tip: With a B1 German certificate, you can qualify for permanent residence after just 21 months on the Blue Card.

4. Gather Required Documents
   Prepare the following (originals + copies):

• Completed visa application form
• Valid passport
• Biometric photos
• Job offer/contract
• Detailed job description
• Proof of qualifications
• Proof of financial stability (e.g., salary, bank statements)
• Proof of health insurance
• Proof of accommodation
• Visa fee (~€75)

1. Apply for Your Visa
   Apply before arriving in Germany at your nearest German embassy/consulate. Only citizens of the USA, Canada, Australia, Japan, Israel, New Zealand, and South Korea may apply after arrival.
   Expect to wait 1–3 months for processing.
2. After Approval: Entry Visa
   If approved, you’ll receive a D-Visa for up to 90 days. Now you can travel to Germany, but don’t forget — the next steps are critical!
3. Register Your Address (Anmeldung)
   Within 2 weeks of arriving, register your address at the Bürgeramt. This will get you your Meldebescheinigung, which is needed for your residence permit.
4. Apply for a Residence Permit
   Book an appointment with the Ausländerbehörde (foreigners’ office). You’ll need:
   • Residence permit application
   • Passport & biometric photo
   • Job contract & job description
   • Proof of qualifications
   • Rental agreement and proof of address
   • Proof of health insurance
   • Application fee (€100)

   Note: You’re not allowed to work until your residence permit is issued (unless otherwise stated).

Fast-Track Option for Skilled Workers (Section 81a) #

Germany offers an accelerated visa procedure. Your employer can:

• Represent you with a power of attorney
• Apply for fast-track processing with the immigration office
• Pay the €411 fee
• Obtain pre-approval from authorities
• Submit documents to the embassy

A decision is usually made within 3 weeks after final submission.

If Your Application Is Denied #

Don’t panic. You can:

• Request the reason for denial through the remonstration process
• Appeal in writing or through Berlin’s Administrative Court
• Consult an immigration lawyer for guidance

Common reasons for denial:

• Degree not recognized
• Salary below the threshold
• Incomplete paperwork

Extra Tips & Warnings #

• Bring all documents to appointments, even extras
• Schedule appointments early — they fill up fast!
• Be punctual and organized
• Bring a German-speaking friend if needed
• Some documents might require certified translation

Travel and Long Absence Rules #

• You can leave Germany for up to 6 months without losing your residence status.
• If your German company sends you abroad, your visa remains valid, but special rules may apply.

Need Help? #

You can get help from:

• Immigration lawyers (See on our platform)
• Hotline from the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees (BAMF)
• Facebook groups like Problems with Ausländerbehörde Berlin
• Your future employer’s HR department

Need Help? #

Whether you’re applying for a Bachelor’s, Master’s, Ausbildung, Job Seeker Visa, Chancenkarte, Family Reunion Visa, Permanent Residency, or German Citizenship – we’re here to help.

Visit our Consultation Section or contact us for expert support with applications, document checks, interview prep, and more.