Finding a Job in Germany #
Your first job starts here – with the right info, tips, and tools. Just moved to Germany and ready to start working? Whether you’re a fresh graduate, a tech expert, or someone exploring a new life chapter, this guide is your simple, friendly roadmap to landing your first job in Germany.
Why Finding a Job in Germany Feels Different #
Germany offers many opportunities, especially in Berlin, Munich, Hamburg, Frankfurt, and other growing cities. But the job search process here has its own rhythm — slower interviews, formal paperwork, and often the need for German language skills (but not always!).
Here’s everything you need to know.
Can You Work in Germany? #
| You are from | Do you need a visa to work? |
|---|---|
| EU/EEA/Switzerland | No visa needed |
| Other countries (non-EU) | Yes, you need a work visa or Blue Card |
Tip: If you already live in Germany with a different visa (e.g. student, language course), you might be able to switch to a work visa or job seeker visa. Check with the Ausländerbehörde (Foreigners’ Office).
Do You Need to Speak German? #
Not always! But it definitely helps.
Even learning A2–B1 German can unlock more job options and improve your salary.
Where to Find Jobs (Trusted Sites & Platforms) #
General Job Boards #
- LinkedIn – Best for networking and international jobs
- Indeed – Filter by language, city, industry
- Stepstone, HeyJobs, Jobted, Glassdoor – For quick search
English-Speaking Jobs #
- Berlin Startup Jobs
- ArbeitNow
- EnglishJobs.de
- The Local Jobs
Facebook groups:
- English Jobs in Berlin (89k+ members)
- Berlin Startup Jobs (56k+ members)
Tech Jobs #
- Instaffo
- GermanTechJobs.de
- Landing.jobs
- Germantechjobs.de
- Webentwickler-jobs.de
- Softwareentwickler-jobs.de
- Administrator-jobs.de
- Gulp.de
- MoBerries
- Gamesjobsgermany.de
- Games-career.com
- Hitmarker.net/jobs
Creative, Hospitality, or NGO Jobs #
- Dasauge.de – Design & Media
- HotelCareer.de – Hotels & Restaurants
- GoodJobs.eu – NGOs & Social Impact
- Berlinartlink
- Artconnectberlin.com
- Bpigs
- Music-job.com
- Buehnenjobs.de
- Theaterjobs.de
- Stagepool
- Mandy
- Crew-united
- e-talenta.eu
- Jobs beim Staat
- Gastronomiecareer
UX, UI & graphic design and construction Jobs #
Medical Background #
How to Apply – CV, Cover Letter & More #
Your CV (Lebenslauf) #
- 1–2 pages, clear timeline
- Include your date of birth, nationality, and professional photo
- Keep format clean (PDF, no funky fonts)
Free templates and tips: How to write a German CV
Cover Letter (Anschreiben) #
- Personalize each letter
- Mention the company name and job title
- Explain why you’re a great fit
- Keep it short and clear (1 page max)
Career coaches or platforms like Imagine Foundation offer free reviews.
Interview Process in Germany #
German hiring can take time. Expect 2–3 rounds over several weeks.
| Stage | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| Phone Screen | Quick call to confirm interest |
| Technical Interview | Task or challenge (for tech roles) |
| Team Interview | Casual chat or lunch with team |
| Offer & Contract | Negotiate before signing |
Always ask if benefits, bonuses, or relocation help is included in the offer.
Bonus Tip – Get a Tax Refund! #
If you moved for a job, your relocation costs, coaching sessions, travel to interviews, and application materials may be tax-deductible!
After your first working year, file a Steuererklärung (tax return) — many people get €100s back.
Want Extra Help? #
We’ve got you covered with:
- Job coaching and CV review referrals
- Resume templates and application checklists
Just reach out for support — we’re here to help you settle in successfully.
Final Words #
Finding a job in Germany is totally possible — even without German at first. Just focus on:
- Applying smart (not mass-applying blindly)
- Using the right websites
- Improving your German step by step
- Preparing for longer hiring cycles
You don’t have to do it alone. Our platform and community are here to support you every step of the way.
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