How to Immigrate to Germany as a Skilled Worker

Who is an Eligible Skilled Worker?

Skilled workers come in two categories: people with professional training and people with academic training. Whatever your degree is, it must be recognized and accepted by German authorities.

Professional Training: It is necessary to complete an officially recognized professional training program. German law requires it to be at least two years.
Academic Training: You must have achieved an academic degree from a university, college, or education center. An MA or BA is an example of a degree you must earn.

Skilled workers can take a job position in Germany if they can prove to be qualified and able to perform the work well. According to new changes in German law, IT specialists with “highly-developed practical professional knowledge” do not need recognition. They can come to Germany without recognition and practice their occupation.

Requirements to Become a Qualified Skilled Worker in Germany

1. A Recognized Degree

Your education must be recognized in Germany, whether professional or academic training. In some majors like dentistry and medicine, you must receive a degree from the government and pass a test.

If you completed your education in Germany, you don’t need recognition. According to new rules, you can also submit your application before recognition is complete. In some cases, you can move to Germany and start working before recognition is finalized.

2. Job Offer

A job offer is mandatory. It must lead to a written contract with details about the employment with a German employer. Don’t pay money in exchange for a job, as it may be a scam. You can also apply for a tourist visa or job seeker visa to enter Germany and look for work.

3. Work Permit

Once officials approve your job offer, they issue a work permit. This is required before applying for a work visa. A work permit allows you to work and stay longer than 90 days.

4. Leaving Your Country

You must have a valid passport or travel documents to leave your country. Most of the time, a clean record certificate is also required.

5. Supporting Documents

You need supporting documents for both the work permit and work visa. The employer submits work permit requirements to German authorities, while you must submit visa documents to the German embassy in your country.

Not all non-EU nationals need a visa to enter Germany. Nationals of the US, Canada, Israel, Japan, South Korea, and Australia can enter visa-free for up to 90 days, but need a residence or work permit for longer stays.

6. Financial Independence

You must prove financial independence, either through your job income or savings. If you plan to bring your family, you must show you can support them as well.

Steps to Move to Germany as a Skilled Worker

Step 1: Get Your Degree Recognized
If your degree isn’t recognized, you cannot work. For some professions, you may need additional training. You can also apply for a German internship visa to complete training in Germany for 12–18 months, during which you can work under limited conditions.

Step 2: Find a Job Offer with a German Employer
The employer must apply for a work permit on your behalf.

Step 3: Apply for a Work Permit
Send your documents to your employer, who submits them to German authorities. You may be asked to provide additional documents.

Step 4: Get a Work Visa
After receiving a work permit, apply for a work visa at the German embassy or consulate in your country.

How Long Can Skilled Workers Stay in Germany?

The validity of a work permit depends on your employment contract, the type of permit, and German authorities’ decision. You can stay and work as long as your contract and permit remain valid, provided you obey national laws.

Bringing Family to Germany

Yes, you can bring your spouse and single children if your income covers the entire family’s expenses. Your spouse must often prove A1-level German language proficiency. You must also have suitable accommodation for your family.

What if You Lose Your Job in Germany?

If your employer doesn’t extend your contract, you must find a new job offer. The new employer applies for a new work permit, and you must do this while your residence permit is valid. Typically, you have up to three months to secure a new residence permit.