How to Get a Work Visa in Germany – Dreaming of building a career in Germany? This guide offers all the key details you need to make that dream a reality. From types of visas to application procedures, we’ve got you covered.
Read on to start your German adventure.
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Who needs a work visa or Blue Card?
If you’re planning to work in Germany and as an international individual in the EU, EEA, or Switzerland, a work visa is generally mandatory. The EU Blue Card could be a more beneficial choice for you.
German Work Visa
A German Work Visa is the standard route for most individuals looking to gain employment in Germany.
This visa type is suitable for a wide range of job categories and doesn’t have stringent requirements in terms of educational qualifications.
Nonetheless, you’ll still need a confirmed job offer from a German employer and will have to meet several conditions, such as having health insurance and proof of sufficient funds.
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EU Blue Card
On the other hand, the EU Blue Card is tailored for highly skilled non-EU nationals and offers several advantages over a standard work visa. To qualify, you’ll need a job that pays at least €55,200 or more per year and a higher education degree. The Blue Card doesn’t just make it easier to get permanent residence; it also allows your family to join you more straightforwardly.
The EU Blue Card offers:
- A faster pathway to permanent residency
- Easier family reunification rules
- The flexibility to change jobs without complicated paperwork
Therefore, if you have high qualifications and a job offer that meets the salary requirements, the EU Blue Card could be the better option for you.
Key Takeaway: While a standard work visa will suffice for most jobs, the EU Blue Card offers significant advantages for highly qualified professionals. So, evaluate your personal situation and career goals.
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Types of German Work Visas
General Employment Visa: For standard job roles.
Specialist Professional Visa: For specific industries like healthcare.
Job Seeker Visa: To search for employment within six months.
EU Blue Card: For highly-qualified non-EU nationals.
German Work Visa Requirements
- A valid passport
- Job offer
- Proof of qualification
- Health insurance
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EU Blue Card Requirements
- A job with an annual salary of at least €55,200 or more
- A higher education degree
- Adequate health insurance
- Two Ways to Apply
- Apply in Germany
- Apply in your home country
How to Get a Work Visa in Germany
Step 1: Come to Germany
Enter Germany on a tourist or job seeker visa.
Step 2: Find a Job in Germany
Search through platforms like LinkedIn, or websites specific to your industry.
Step 3: Get Pre-Approval from the ZAV (Optional)
Some job categories require pre-approval from the ZAV.
Step 4: Open a Bank Account (Optional)
A German bank account makes transactions easier.
Step 5: Find a Place to Live
Check websites or consult real estate agents.
Step 6: Register Your Address
Visit the local Bürgeramt and register your address.
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Step 7: Get Health Insurance
Opt for either public or private health insurance.
Step 8: Book Your Residence Permit Appointment
Book an appointment online with your local Ausländerbehörde.
Step 9: Prepare the Required Documents
Assemble all the necessary paperwork.
Step 10: Go to Your Ausländerbehörde Appointment
Attend the appointment and submit your application.
Step 11: Receive Your Work Visa
The visa will be sent via mail.
Step 12: Start Working in Germany
You can now legally work.
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How to Apply in Your Country
Step 1: Get Your Appointment
Book your appointment at the German embassy or consulate.
Step 2: Prepare for Your Visa Interview
Ensure all documents are ready.
Step 3: Go to Your Visa Interview
Attend and complete your visa interview.
Step 4: Receive Your Temporary Visa
You will get a temporary visa first.
Step 5: Come to Germany
Use the temporary visa to enter Germany.
Step 6: Start Working in Germany
You can start your employment.
Step 7: Convert Your Temporary Visa to a Residence Permit
Switch to a long-term visa once in Germany.
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Required Documents
- Passport
- Job Offer
- Qualification Proof
- Health Insurance
Conclusion
Getting a work visa in Germany involves a series of steps, but with careful planning, it’s a manageable process. Germany offers a plethora of opportunities, making all the paperwork worth the effort.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it easy to get work visa in Germany?
Applications take about 1-3 months to be processed. After the application has been approved by the Aliens’ Authority and –if applicable- by the Work Office (Arbeitsagentur), the Embassy or Consulate General will issue a residence permit in the form of a visa, which will include the authorization to work in Germany
How much is ticket from Nigeria to Germany?
The average price for a plane ticket from Nigeria to Germany is $1,259 round-trip from Murtala Muhammed International Airport to Frankfurt Airport.
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