To work in Germany, citizens of non-EU countries need a residence permit that allows employment. In Germany, there is no separate work permit document: the right to work is stated on the residence permit. Most people first need a national visa from a German embassy.
The Main Routes
| Route | Key requirements |
|---|---|
| EU Blue Card | recognised degree or IT experience, job offer, salary threshold (2026: €50,700 or €45,934.20) |
| Skilled worker permit | recognised degree or vocational qualification, job offer matching the qualification |
| Experience-based permit | at least two years of professional experience, qualification recognised in the home country, minimum salary |
| Recognition partnership | job offer and starting the recognition procedure in Germany |
| Intra-company transfer | transfer within an international group |
| IT specialists | professional experience and salary, also without a degree |
See EU Blue Card in Germany for details.
Recognition of Qualifications
For many routes, your qualification must be recognised in Germany or assessed as comparable. University degrees can often be checked in the anabin database or assessed by the Central Office for Foreign Education. For regulated professions, such as doctors and nurses, a professional licence is required.
Approval of the Employment Agency
For many permits, the Federal Employment Agency checks whether the working conditions, especially pay, are comparable to those of German employees. For the standard Blue Card, this check is not required.
The Process
- Job offer or employment contract.
- Recognition of your qualification, if required.
- Visa application at the German embassy or consulate, or the fast-track procedure through your employer.
- Entry and registration of your address.
- Residence permit at the local immigration office.
Citizens of Australia, Canada, Israel, Japan, New Zealand, South Korea, the UK and the USA can enter without a visa and apply for the permit in Germany.
Changing or Losing Your Job
Your permit is often linked to a specific type of job. Changing jobs may require a new approval. If you lose your job, your permit does not end automatically. See losing your job and your residence permit.
Looking for a Job First
Without a job offer, you can come to Germany with the Opportunity Card to look for work. See Opportunity Card and job seeker visa.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I work on a Schengen tourist visa?
No. A tourist visa does not allow employment.
How long does a work visa take?
It depends on the embassy, from a few weeks to several months. The fast-track procedure can shorten this considerably.
Can my family come with me?
Yes, under the rules for family reunion. See family reunion.
