How to find a job in Germany | Top sites & tips #

Just moved to Germany and ready to start your career? Whether you’re a graduate, tech professional, or exploring a new life chapter, finding a job in Germany can feel challenging but it doesn’t have to be. In this guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know: the best job sites, work visa tips, German CV and cover letter rules, plus insider advice to land your first job in Germany even if you don’t speak German yet.

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!).

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 to get job? #

Not always! But it definitely helps.

• Even learning A2–B1 German can unlock more job options and improve your salary.

Best job sites in Germany (General & English-speaking) #

General job boards #

• LinkedIn – Best for networking and international jobs
• Indeed – Filter by language, city, industry
• Xing
• Stepstone, HeyJobs, Jobted, Glassdoor – For quick search

English speaking jobs platforms #

• Berlin Startup Jobs
• ArbeitNow
• EnglishJobs.de
• The Local Jobs https://jobs.thelocal.com/
• Facebook groups:
  • English Jobs in Berlin (89k+ members)
  • Berlin Startup Jobs (56k+ members)

Tech jobs #

• Instaffo
• GermanTechJobs.de
• Landing.jobs
• 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

How to Apply for Jobs in Germany (CV & Cover Letter) #

Writing a German-style 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

Writing a strong 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 (What to expect) #

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.

What expenses are tax deductible (relocation, applications, coaching) #

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.

Final tips for job seekers in Germany #

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.