Every year, thousands of foreigners have the opportunity to work legally in Germany by entering into employment contracts with local companies. However, for this you need to obtain a special permit – a work visa.
The process of completing this document may seem complicated, but if you know the main stages, requirements and nuances, it will be greatly simplified. In this article we will look at who needs a German work visa, what types there are, and how to properly apply for and obtain a work permit in Germany. We will explain in detail how to get a German work visa and what you should pay attention to.
Germany attracts foreigners with its stable economy, quality working conditions and career opportunities. Citizens of countries that are not members of the European Union need to obtain a work visa to be legally employed. Without this document, official employment in Germany is impossible.
Those who are looking for assistance in obtaining visa documents and selecting vacancies can contact Group Working, which specializes in employment in Germany and other European countries.
Work visas in Germany are divided into several categories depending on qualifications, employment conditions and length of stay.
This visa is suitable for highly qualified specialists with higher education and work experience. The main requirement is a contract with a salary of 58,400 euros (or 45,552 euros for professions in short supply). Holders of this card can receive a residence permit after 33 months, and if they speak the language at level B1, after 21 months.
This type of permit is suitable for people who have a contract with a German employer but do not meet the requirements for an EU Blue Card. It is issued on the basis of an employment contract and confirmation from the Federal Labor Agency that there are no local candidates.
Issued to persons planning to work in agriculture, hotel and restaurant business or on short-term projects. Validity period is up to six months. This visa is popular among migrants who want short-term employment without the need for a long stay in the country.
To obtain a work permit, you must meet certain requirements. The main ones:
First you need to find a vacancy that matches your qualifications. It is best to use official job search sites such as Make-it-in-Germany, Indeed, StepStone or contact recruiting agencies. It is also important to check whether the employer provides support during the process of obtaining a residence permit.
After successfully passing the interview and agreeing on working conditions, the employer sends an official invitation and contract. These documents are the basis for applying for a visa. The contract must contain information about job responsibilities, salary levels and working conditions.
The list of required documents may vary depending on the type of visa. Main documents:
The application is submitted to the German consulate or embassy in the country of residence. Registration for submission is carried out online. All documents must be submitted in original and with copies. It is also worth considering application processing times, which may vary depending on the type of visa.
Some categories of applicants are required to undergo an interview. During the interview, they may be asked about work plans, living conditions and language skills. It is worth preparing answers to typical questions in advance.
The amount of the consular fee depends on the type of visa, on average – from 75 euros. Payment is made upon submission of documents. In some cases, there may be an additional obligation to pay an expedited application processing fee.
The review process takes from several weeks to several months. Once approved, you can receive a visa and go to Germany to start working.
A work visa to Germany provides the opportunity to legally find a job in compliance with all social guarantees. It opens the way to obtaining a residence permit, and also provides the prospect of family reunification. The high level of salaries and social standards makes this country attractive for migrants.
At the same time, the application process can be lengthy, and the requirements for qualifications and language knowledge can be high. In addition, mandatory confirmation of documents can become an additional complication.
Obtaining a work visa to Germany is a responsible step that requires careful preparation. Compliance with all requirements significantly increases the chances of a positive decision.
