How Foreigners Get a Job in Germany (2024)

If you are seeking information on how to find work in Germany, you have come to the right place and at the right time. Germany is with a labour force of 45.5 million, including 3.5 million foreign employees, and with 1.9 million job vacancies the largest job market in Europe and one that is among the most open to foreign job seekers. To sustain the growth of the German economy the country needs foreign specialists of certain professions. In addition, due to ageing of the population and retirement of the “baby boomer” generation Germany is hiring thousands of healthcare specialists and other skilled personnel from foreign countries. For foreigners with specific in-demand qualifications finding a well-paid job in Germany is now more real than ever.

German Economy and Employment

Germany is the largest European economy and the fourth largest economy in the world, accounting for 4.4% of the global GDP. The growth of the Germany’s technology-driven economy largely depends on exports as Germany is the world’s third biggest exporter, having the largest nominal trade surplus in the world. The total German labour force is about 45.5 million while the unemployment rate is extremely low at 2.8%. There is virtually no unemployment in large German cities. The only regions affected by some unemployment are the rural areas, mainly in the north-east. Hence, it is not surprising that Germany is also one of the world’s largest importers of foreign workforce as 3.5 million foreigners already work in Germany.

There appears to be just one major weakness in the German economy and that is the German demographics. It is estimated that by 2030, one third of the German population will be over the age of 67, that is, in retirement age. To keep the German economy afloat, an estimated net inflow of 400,000 foreign workers a year will be needed. To achieve this goal, Germany plans to further simplify its immigration rules so that skilled foreign workers can help fill the gaps in the German labor market.

The German Job Market for Foreigners

The German job market currently has 1.9 million job vacancies (as of June 2022 according to the EUROSTAT). This alone presents tremendous work opportunities for foreigners. Yet, due to the large size, stable growth and undergoing structural changes in the German economy, hundreds of thousands of new jobs are created each year. The German labour market lacks skilled professionals in several important areas and German government and employers are welcoming foreigners to fill this gap. Moreover, Germany is known for its aging population. It is estimated that between 2022 and 2036, 12.9 million economically active persons will reach the retirement age, which is more than 28% of the current German workforce. This will create further opportunities for foreigners wishing to live and work in Germany.

Working Conditions in Germany

German Labour Code (which is actually a set of employment laws) provides a high level of protection to all employees. With a five-day working week, the maximum working hours are defined at 48 hours per week while most employees work 38.5 hours a week. All employees are entitled to a minimum of 20 days of holiday per year. However, most employers offer their employees 25-30 days of holiday. In addition, there are nine bank holidays in Germany that are celebrated in all federal states alongside regional holidays celebrated in certain federal states. Hence, the national average is 11 bank holidays a year. The minimum wage in Germany is 10.45 Euros per hour (as of July 1st, 2022), that is 1,818 Euros per month.

Personal Income Tax

Germany has a relatively complicated taxation system. The personal income tax rate starts at zero and rises progressively to a maximum of 45% for high-income individuals (earning more than 277,826 Euros a year). In addition, there is a 5.5% solidarity surcharge (individuals who earn between 74K and 110K Euros annually pay less while those earning below 74K Euros annually are excluded altogether) and an 8-9% church tax for registered church members that are levied as a percentage of income tax. Social security contributions (amounting to ca 20% of income until a certain ceiling is reached) are deducted from personal income before calculating income tax. Generous tax allowances are provided to families with children (read this article for more information on personal income tax calculation).

Job Vacancies in the German Economy

In the German labour market there is a continuously high demand for people with certain special skills. These include highly skilled individuals with university education such as physicians, engineers, teachers, natural scientists, mathematicians and IT specialists as well as qualified specialists with vocational education such as nurses, caregivers and skilled trades workers of different professions. Moreover, millions of Germans will retire over the coming years which will create demand also in areas where there are no shortages yet. Many experts believe that these gaps can only be plugged with foreign professionals enticed to work in Germany.

Which Professions Are Needed Most in Germany?

Healthcare

A lack of healthcare professionals, especially doctors and nurses, is a chronic problem of the German health sector. It is estimated that the German healthcare system currently needs about 5,000 physicians to fill the gap. The minimum starting salary of a medical graduate in Germany is over 57,000 Euros a year, the highest among all university graduates. A doctor who has completed a medical training in any country (also outside the European Economic Area) that is equivalent to the medical training in Germany is eligible for a medical licence in Germany.

Worse yet for Germany, it is estimated that additional 500,000 nursing personnel, who are already in short supply, will be needed over the next ten years in German hospitals and nursing homes. Although not all nurses and other healthcare personnel may have their qualifications immediately recognized in Germany, the Federal Employment Agency (Bundesagentur für Arbeit) encourages foreigners to complete vocational training courses in Germany to become eligible for jobs in the German healthcare industry.

To help German employers deal with the shortage of healthcare personnel and other skilled professionals, the German Government launched several recruitment initiatives targeted at foreign workers from third countries. Information on the current projects for recruiting foreign nursing staff can be found below under the heading “Existing Projects Aimed at Recruiting Foreign Skilled Labour”. For complete guide on the opportunities for foreign nursing personnel in the German healthcare sector (incl. salaries) read the article “Nursing jobs in Germany“.

Technology

Germany is one of the world leaders in technology and innovation. Its export intensive industry has a growing demand for highly skilled professionals in certain technical areas. These mainly include specialists in the fields of automotive, mechanical and electrical engineering as well telecommunications and information technology specialists (e.g., programmers). In addition to these professions sought after by the industry, many technology research institutes are looking for the so-called STEM graduates (STEM is an acronym for science, technology, engineering and mathematics also known as MINT professions in Germany). They include not only the aforementioned engineers and IT specialists but also mathematicians and specialists in different fields of science such as biotechnology or nanotechnology.

The starting salary of a graduate of mechanical or electrical engineering or a STEM graduate in general is in the range of 46,000 – 51,000 Euros a year and it is not uncommon for people with 15 years of experience in the field to earn over 75,000 Euros a year.

Who Can Get a Job in Germany?

Citizen of any country can apply for a job in Germany but some nationals will have it more difficult than others to get it. This has to do with German foreign labour regulations.

Who Needs a Work Permit in Germany?

In general, citizens of countries from outside of the European Economic Area (EU and EFTA) need a work permit (that is a residence permit for gainful employment) to be allowed to work in Germany. Thus, as you may assume, there are two categories of foreign job seekers in Germany, those from the EEA and those from outside the EEA:

EU/EEA Citizens

Nationals of the European Economic Area (EEA), which includes the EU and EFTA countries, have an unrestricted access to the German labour market and will be treated the same way as any German national when applying for a job in Germany. They do not need a work or residence permit and their employers do not have to prove to the German labour authorities that the position could not have been filled by a German citizen.

Citizens of Third Countries

Foreigners coming from countries outside of the EEA need a residence permit for work purposes (also called residence permit for gainful employment) whereas in order to get this permit their employer must usually prove that there were no suitable candidates for the job amongst applicants from the EEA countries. This applies to all non-EEA nationals, irrespective of whether they need a visa to enter Germany or not (more information is available here).

However, exceptions do exist when it is not necessary to prove that there are no suitable candidates from within the EEA. Examples are listed below.

  • Fresh graduates of German universities: Citizens of third countries who have earned their university degree in Germany can stay in the country for another 18 months and work part-time while looking for a job in their field of study. But, to be allowed to stay, they must apply for the post-study work visa before their student’s visa expires. Once they have found a job that corresponds to their qualifications, they can convert their residence permit for study purposes into a residence permit for gainful employment and start working full time. In addition, foreign graduates of German universities who left home after completing their studies can still return to Germany for job hunting (see the Jobseeker’s visa below).
  • Fresh graduates of German vocational training programmes: Likewise, foreigners from third countries who have completed a vocational training in Germany can have their residence permit extended for another 12 months to find a job that suits their qualifications. During this 12 month period they can take up any job to help cover their living costs in Germany until they find a work they were originally trained for. Should they leave Germany for home having no job offer, they are eligible for the German jobseeker’s visa, just like the above mentioned university graduates.
  • Academics eligible for the EU Blue Card: Another exception are university graduates having a binding offer for any specialist job that pays them at least 56,400 Euros a year (applies to 2022). Moreover, for certain specialist professions where there is a chronic lack of suitable candidates from within the EEA, there is a reduced minimum annual salary limit of 43,992 Euros. These jobs include doctors of medicine as well as the so-called MINT professions (mathematics, informatics, natural sciences and technology/engineering). All those mentioned in this paragraph are eligible for the EU Blue Card (temporary residence title) in Germany.
  • Foreign professionals with vocational skills: In addition, in its new “Skilled Immigration Act” Germany made it easier for non-academics from outside the EEA to access the German labor market, including occupations where there is no shortage of skills within Germany. That is, the so-called qualified professionals from third countries have an opportunity to obtain a work visa for Germany if 1) they have a binding offer for a job in Germany for which they are qualified and 2) they have received higher education or vocational training in Germany or elsewhere that is equivalent to German professional standards. However, if the candidate is over 45 years old, they must be offered a minimum salary of 46,530 Euros per year (as of 2022), or must have an adequate pension provision.

Jobseeker’s Visa for Germany

University graduates and professionals with vocational skills from countries that do not have a visa-free regime with Germany may apply for a visa for jobseekers at the nearest German consulate or embassy. This visa is issued for six months. Besides a valid passport, other required documents for issuing a visa for jobseekers include a university degree or a vocational training certificate recognized in Germany, a German language certificate (minimum B1), CV, letter of motivation and a travel insurance policy. Applicants must also prove that they can support themselves financially for six months as they will not be allowed to take up any employment in Germany during their stay on a jobseeker’s visa other than trial employment of up to 10 hours a week. This type of visa cannot be extended. Therefore, the job seeker must leave Germany once the visa expired and wait for at least as long as they have stayed in Germany (usually six months) before they can apply for another jobseeker’s visa.

Existing Projects Aimed at Recruiting Foreign Skilled Labour

  • Hand in Hand for International Talents – The aim of this project organized by DIHK Service GmbH, the Ministry of Economy and the Employment Agency is to help German companies in selected regions recruit skilled and experienced professionals from Brazil, India and Vietnam. The sought-after professions include electrical engineers, IT and telecommunications experts, software developers as well as cooks, hotel personnel and workers for catering services.
  • Skilled Trades Offer a Future or Handwerk bietet Zukunft (HabiZu) in German – is a project funded by the Ministry of Economy and implemented by the German Confederation of Skilled Trades, the Employment Agency and sequa gGmbH. The objective is to help medium-sized companies in several German regions find electronics trades workers, construction metal workers and plant mechanics for sanitary, heating & air conditioning technology. Recruitment takes place in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
  • Triple Win Project – organized jointly by the Employment Agency and the German Society for International Cooperation has the goal to recruit qualified foreign nursing and caregiving personnel for the German healthcare industry. At the moment, recruitment takes place in India, Philippines, Vietnam, Indonesia, Tunisia, and Bosnia and Herzegovina.
  • Fair Recruitment of Nurses Germany or Faire Anwerbung Pflege Deutschland in German – is a project sponsored by the Ministry of Health and implemented by the German Agency for International Healthcare Professions to support fair recruitment of foreign nursing personnel from Brazil, India, Indonesia, Mexico and the Philippines for German hospitals and homes for the elderly.
  • Nursing Professionals for Germany – is a program carried out by the Employment Agency in cooperation with German clinics to ensure fair and professional recruitment of nursing staff from Latin America, especially from Brazil and Mexico. This project is an expansion of the existing “Triple Win Project” mentioned above.
  • Project THAMM (Trainees and qualified professionals from North Africa) – the focus of this project is to help German companies find skilled workers and trainees in North Africa. It is a joint project of the German Society for International Cooperation and the Employment Agency. The goal is sustainable recruitment and successful integration of immigrant workers in Germany.
  • UBAconnect – the motto of this project is “finding qualified professionals through adaptation programmes”. Hence, the task is to identify German companies ready to employ skilled trades workers from abroad whose qualifications are not fully recognized in Germany while supporting these individuals towards achieving required qualifications through adaptation programmes. Hiring of foreign personnel for this project has not yet begun (as of 09/2022).
  • Westbalkan-Regelung – Nationals of Albania, Kosovo, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Macedonia, Montenegro and Serbia enjoy a preferential access to the German job market and vocational training courses. The project called “Arbeiten und Leben in Deutschland” started at the beginning of 2016 and should have ended in December 2020 but it was extended till the end of 2023. Under this programme, citizens of participating countries can also apply for non-specialist jobs that are normally not available to citizens of third countries. Additional information can be found in this PDF.

Recognition of Occupational Qualifications

It is very likely that foreign job applicants will at some point in time need to have their professional qualifications obtained outside of Germany compared with the German equivalents in order to be recognized in Germany. That is, they will be issued a “Statement of Comparability“. Some professions in Germany, such as medical specialists or lawyers, are regulated and recognition is necessary. For many others it is not required but generally helpful when applying for a job or needed for issuing a visa. Smooth recognition of school certificates and university degrees can be expected if these were issued in another EU/EEA country or a country that is a signatory of the Bologna Process. In any case, expect to pay several hundred Euros for this process. For more information check out the information portal of the German government for recognition of foreign professional qualifications and the Anabin database.

Self-Employment in Germany

Besides taking up employment, the nationals of third countries can set up their own business in Germany. The new initiative seeks to recruit business-minded foreigners from third countries who will create new innovative jobs in Germany. They will, however, need to prove that there is a demand for their products or services in the German market, that their business will benefit the German economy and that they have secured financing for their project either through their own capital or already pre-approved bank loan. Successful candidates are eligible for a residence permit for self-employment. Likewise, talented foreign freelancers can apply for a residence permit for freelance work. This website should help you answer some questions regarding setting-up your own business in Germany.

Searching for a Job in Germany

Whether you are in Germany or not, there are several steps you can take to start a job search. For executive or specialist positions you can hire a reputable international executive search firm or a local recruitment agency (Personalagentur). But, while waiting for the headhunters to call you with their job offers, you can explore the existing opportunities on your own, especially if you are not in the six digit bracket. The easiest option is to check the German job websites. Your first point of reference should be those that are operated by the government agencies but there are also many others, mostly privately owned job portals that are worth a try. Here is quite a comprehensive list to begin with:

Public Employment Agencies

  • Jobbörse der Bundesagentur für Arbeit (Job Board of the Federal Employment Agency) – you will not only find there thousands of job offerings but also advice from the most competent people in the industry when it comes to helping foreigners find work in Germany. Registered users can set up their individual profile so that they can be contacted by potential employers.
  • EURES (European Employment Services) is a project of the European Commission, also called the European Job Mobility Portal. It enables you to search for vacancies in all of its member states. To narrow your search, select Germany at the top of the left-hand sidebar.
  • Job Listings of the Portal – Make It in Germany. This is a joint project of the Federal Ministry of Economy, the Federal Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs, and the Federal Employment Agency designed to help foreigners seeking careers in Germany answer all their questions. This web portal is a key component of the campaign aimed at attracting skilled professionals from abroad to fill the gaps in the German labour market.
  • EURAXESS (Researchers in Motion) is a project supported by the European Commission and the Federal Ministry of Education and Research to promote the exchange of European scientists among its 30 member states. Universities and research institutes are encouraged to post their vacancies to the network to make them available to researchers from other countries. Researchers can also post their CVs to the Euraxess network.

Independent Job Portals

The most obvious choices for any foreign job seeker looking for work in Germany include JobStairs, Monster, JobWare, Staufenbiel, The Local, LinkedIn, StepStone Germany and Indeed Germany but there are also job portals that specialize in a certain geographic area or type of professions that you should check out such as:

  • EnglishJobs – English-speaking jobs in Germany
  • JOBSinMUNICH – local job search for Munich for English-speaking foreign professionals where you can find links to other similar local job portals like JobsinBerlin or JobsinHamburg, etc.
  • Medi Jobs – medical professions (doctors, nurses, medical assistants)
  • Mein Pflegejob – job portal for nursing and caregiving occupations
  • GermanTechJobs – an IT job board created with the focus on transparency
  • Absolventa – jobs for university students and fresh graduates
  • Academics – jobs in research and higher education
  • Praktikum – student internships

(For more resources, type “Jobbörse” or “jobs in Germany” into Google.)

Newspaper Job Portals

The more straightforward way of searching for a job is to check the websites of German companies in your field. Most of them have a page called “Jobs & Karriere” or “Offene Stellen” where you can find open positions that often cannot be seen on the job search aggregators. But, do not focus exclusively on the largest employers. There are thousands of small and medium sized firms in Germany looking to hire people from abroad. You can also try to send them speculative applications (Initiativbewerbung), which is perfectly acceptable in Germany. However, this can be quite time consuming.

How to Apply for a Job in Germany

When applying for a job in Germany you will most likely need to provide more than just your CV and reference letters from previous employers. It is still common in Germany to send job applications by post as a folder (Bewerbungsmappe) containing:

  • Cover letter
  • Curriculum Vitae
  • Reference letters
  • Copy of the school leaving certificate
  • Copy of the university diploma
  • Samples of work
  • Passport size photo

Later on, some employers may also ask you to provide a copy of the criminal record but it is typically not part of the application folder. Although traditionally all this correspondence was done by post, many employers now require these documents only in electronic printable format such as PDF. It goes without saying that you should have your documents composed (and translated when applicable) in German or English (if you are applying for an English-speaking job). If your reference letters are in English, it is usually not necessary to have them translated into German.

A quick Internet search will provide you with plenty of examples and guidance on how to compose a catchy and professional cover letter and CV. Just type “Bewerbung” or “Bewerbungsschreiben” or “Lebenslauf Muster” or “Bewerbung Vorlagen kostenlos” into Google. Here are a few good examples:

  • Europass enables you to create a professional cover letter and CV online in German, English or any other European language. Documents are not stored on the server, so you need to download them before leaving the editor.
  • KarriereBibel allows you to download free samples of cover letters and CVs in word format that are easy to use at home.
  • Bewerbung offers a free generator that enables you to compose your motivation letter and CV online. They will be sent to your email. You will also find there lots of helpful tips on writing a perfect resume and to prepare you for a job interview.

How to Behave at a Job Interview in Germany

All your hard work has paid off and you have been invited to a job interview. There is no universal advice on how to behave at a job interview in Germany that will guarantee you success as every case is different and a lot depends on the company and a person who will be interviewing you. But in general, when in Germany follow these tips for a successful interview:

  • Be punctual and polite but don’t be boring
  • Dress suitably (better keep your Rolex watch under the sleeve)
  • Keep an eye contact with your interviewer
  • Listen to your interviewer carefully
  • Don’t behave emotionally but don’t be unresponsive
  • Refrain from criticising anyone (especially your former boss or colleagues)
  • Emphasize (and depending on the situation exaggerate) your past achievements
  • Learn something about the company and show it
  • Bring a list of questions to ask
  • Bring multiple copies of your CV and cover letter
  • Take notes (or at least pretend to be taking them)
  • For God’s sake put your mobile device in silent mode

As for Skype or phone interview, do not let anyone to disturb you and make sure you sound as natural as if you were sitting in the company’s meeting room.

We hope you have found this guide helpful and will soon find work in Germany. For further work related information about Germany do not forget to check out the pages “Immigration to Germany”, “Nursing Jobs for Foreigners” and “Salaries and Cost of Living in Germany”.

How Foreigners Get a Job in Germany (2024)

FAQs

Is it easy to get a job in Germany for foreigners? ›

With a huge range of professional opportunities and roles throughout Germany, securing a job isn't as hard as it may be in other countries around the world.

What is the easiest way to get a job in Germany? ›

Job Board (Stellensuche) of the Federal Employment Agency

The BA's Stellensuche (job board) is Germany's largest online portal for jobs. You can look for jobs and enter your personal applicant profile so that German companies are able to see it and can therefore contact you directly if they are interested.

How can a foreigner work in Germany? ›

To be allowed to live and work there legally, you must have a German work and residence permit. You don't have to apply for a German work permit separately from a residence permit; you get them both through a single application at the German Immigration Authority Office (Ausländerbehörde).

What jobs are in demand in Germany for foreigners? ›

So here are the top 5 high demand jobs in Germany:
  • Electronics Engineer. ...
  • Computer Science, IT professionals and Software Developers. ...
  • Mechanical Engineering. ...
  • Account Managers / Business analysts. ...
  • Civil Engineer / Architecht. ...
  • 5 ways to BOOST your German learning QUICKLY!
2 Aug 2022

Do German companies hire foreign workers? ›

Germany is with a labour force of 45.5 million, including 3.5 million foreign employees, and with 1.9 million job vacancies the largest job market in Europe and one that is among the most open to foreign job seekers.

What is the best job for foreigners in Germany? ›

Best Jobs in Germany
  • Craftsman (like locksmiths, plumber, carpenter etc.)
  • Engineers.
  • Manager.
  • IT-experts.
  • Professionals in the hospitality industry.
  • Administration.
  • Sales experts.
  • Medical professionals (especially nurses)
24 Jul 2022

Which website is best for job search in Germany? ›

The official ones
  • Job Exchange of the German Federal Employment Agency.
  • The Central Agency of Foreign and Professional Affairs (ZAV)
  • www.stepstone.de.
  • www.indeed.de.
  • www.staufenbiel.de.
  • www.jobvector.de.
  • www.xing.de.
  • www.linkedin.de.
19 Mar 2019

Can I get a job in Germany without speaking German? ›

In short: yes, there are English-speaking jobs in Germany. Foreigners who look for jobs in tech startups or digital departments have a higher chance of finding work in Germany without speaking German.

Which course is best for job in Germany? ›

Popular Courses in Germany
  • Medicine and Dentistry.
  • Law.
  • Industrial Engineering.
  • Engineering.
  • Mathematics and Computer Science.
  • Natural Sciences.
  • Business and economics.
  • Architecture.
22 Aug 2022

Can I work in Germany without a degree? ›

The German work permit provides the same working rights as a Blue Card without the requirement of a university degree. As a developer, if your salary is within the average range for your role and your employer can justify their choice to hire you over a local applicant, you are likely eligible for this working visa.

What is the minimum salary to get work permit in Germany? ›

If you apply for a Blue Card, your salary must be at least 56,400€ per year (before taxes). If there is a shortage of skilled workers in your field, your salary must be at least 43,992€ per year. This list shows which fields have a shortage of skilled workers. If you can, find a job before you come to Germany.

Which skills are in shortage in Germany? ›

According to a recent study, the shortage of skilled workers in Germany is primarily in craft and technical professions. Strong increase in the logistics sector as well as constantly high demand in IT.

What do German employers look for? ›

German employers typically look for your education, professional experience, skills and extracurricular activities. Learn more about writing German CVs from this comprehensive guide. Career events are your chance to connect directly with German employers and to learn more about their organization and opportunities.

Which city in Germany has more job opportunities? ›

Berlin - one of the economic hubs of the world

The capital city of Germany offers some of the best employment opportunities in Berlin. It is one of the economic hubs of the world and attracts a growing number of expats each year that come in search of better career options.

Which German companies hire foreign workers? ›

Germany is considered as the fifth country which is favorable for immigration. The economy of the country is very strong, and it is also popular for its education system and job opportunities.
...
Posted on April 19, 2022.
CompaniesJob Vacancies
BMW300
Siemens400
Adidas100
Philips100
6 more rows
19 Apr 2022

What jobs are needed in Germany? ›

According to deutschland.de, these are the most highly demanded jobs in Germany in 2022:
  • Software developers, architects, and programmers.
  • Electronics engineers, electricians, and electrical fitters.
  • Nurses.
  • IT consultants and analysts.
  • Economists and business management experts.
  • Customer advisors and account managers.
31 Jan 2022

Do I need sponsorship to work in Germany? ›

All persons who wish to seek gainful employment in Germany are required to obtain a residence permit in the form of a visa. Where needed, a work permit will be included in the visa issued for this purpose.

Which is the cheapest city to live in Germany? ›

Cost of living in Berlin

Despite being the capital, Berlin is one of Germany's cheapest cities. Rental prices vary massively, but as a rule of thumb, the west remains much more expensive than the east. You can rent a one-bed flat in Berlin for €00 upwards.

What is the most common job in Germany? ›

The ten most frequently sought jobs in Germany:
  • Software developer and programmer.
  • Electronics engineer, electrician.
  • Healthcare worker and nurse.
  • IT consultant, IT analyst.
  • Economist, business administrator.
  • Account manager, client consultant.
  • Production assistant.
  • Sales representative, sales assistant.
31 Jul 2018

Which jobs are in demand in Germany 2022? ›

Work in Germany: High Demand Jobs in 2022
  • IT Specialists.
  • IT Consultants/Analysts.
  • Data Scientists/Analysts.
  • Software Developers.
  • Doctors.
  • Engineers.
  • Mechanical and Vehicle Engineers.
  • Electrical Engineers.
12 Aug 2022

Is indeed popular in Germany? ›

1. Indeed. Indeed has grown exponentially over the past 10 years or so to become one of the most important jobs portals in Germany.

How can I find a job? ›

  1. Networking.
  2. Referrals.
  3. Job Boards and Career Websites.
  4. Job Fairs.
  5. Company Websites.
  6. Cold Calling.
  7. Head Hunters and Recruiters.
  8. Temping or Internships.

Where can I find employees in Germany? ›

Public German job sites

The Federal Employment Agency (Bundesagentur für Arbeit, BA ), the largest provider of labor market services in Germany, has a network of over 700 agencies and offices around the country. Its International Placement Service (ZAV) has information about work opportunities, including casual work.

How do I prepare for a German interview? ›

Start your journey to reach fluency
  1. Learn German. ...
  2. Arrive early. ...
  3. Address the interviewer formally. ...
  4. Dress suitably. ...
  5. Bring copies of your CV and other documents. ...
  6. Research the company. ...
  7. Keep eye contact. ...
  8. Prepare questions.
5 Jul 2022

Which country is easiest to get a job? ›

The top 10 easiest countries to get a work visa are the following:
  • Estonia.
  • Norway & Svalbard.
  • Australia.
  • New Zealand.
  • Germany.
  • Netherlands.
  • South Korea.
  • Canada.

Do I need Ielts to work in Germany? ›

English language proficiency in the form of IELTS is not an eligibility requirement for work visas in Germany. However, having an IELTS certification will significantly increase your job opportunities.

How long does it take to get B1 German? ›

How long does it take to learn German?
Assess your current level & test your German online!Intensive course (20 lessons/week)
A1beginner8 weeks
A2elementary8 weeks
B1intermediate8 weeks
B2upper intermediate10 weeks*
2 more rows

What is B1 certificate in Germany? ›

The Goethe-Zertifikat B1 is a German exam for young people and adults. It certifies that candidates are independent users of the German language and corresponds to the third level (B1) on the six-level scale of competence laid down in the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).

Can you work in Germany without speaking English? ›

Employers are often keen on having native English speakers on staff, but if you can't speak German as well, it puts extra work on everyone else and there are many local people who speak English quite well. Buckle down and get your German to a B2 level, and you'll find the job options open up exponentially.

Which degree is most valuable in Germany? ›

Here's the list of top 10 highest paying degrees in Germany in 2022 and beyond.
  1. Medicine and Dentistry. ...
  2. Computer Science. ...
  3. Law. ...
  4. Industrial Engineering. ...
  5. Engineering. ...
  6. Natural Sciences. ...
  7. Business and Economics. ...
  8. Architecture.
24 Feb 2022

Which company pays highest salary in Germany? ›

The best paying company in Germany is Rothschild & Co, offering an average salary of $625,000.

Which course is in high demand in Germany? ›

Medicine and Dentistry

Health is seen as one of the most important factors of having high well-being in any country. Because of that, medical occupations are the top paid degrees in Germany. A doctor or a dentist is expected to make the highest amount of money out of anyone with other degrees.

What is the highest paying job in Germany? ›

Here's the list of highest-paid professionals in Germany in 2022 - 2023.
  • Pilots. ...
  • College professors. ...
  • Researchers in Biotechnology and Neuroscience. ...
  • Surgeons and doctors. ...
  • Judges. ...
  • Bank managers. ...
  • Director of Finance. ...
  • Tourism and hospitality professionals.
3 Aug 2022

What happens if I work more than 20 hours in Germany? ›

Once you work more than 20 hours per week, you are no longer treated as a working student in Germany and instead considered an employee in the first place. To put it in other words: as soon as you work more than 20 hours a week, you'll be obliged to pay social security contributions, such as health insurance.

Can I convert my student visa to work visa in Germany? ›

Staying in Germany after obtaining your degree

You are allowed to perform any job while searching for qualified employment. As soon as you have received a job offer, you can apply to have your residence permit for study purposes converted into a work permit for qualified professionals or into an EU Blue Card.

What is the age limit to work in Germany? ›

There is no maximum age for an apprenticeship. As a German or a foreigner, you can apply for vocational training at practically any age. Traditionally, it is still common in Germany for apprentices to be of a younger age: most are between 15 and 25 years old.

What are the 4 types of visa? ›

Which type of visa do you need? Probably one of the four main types: tourist, immigration, student, or work.

How much bank balance is required for Germany work visa? ›

German embassies and consulates generally require that you provide a bank statement of an escrow/blocked account (Sperrkonto) with a balance of at least €720 for each month of the visa. For a six-month Job Seeker Visa, this is €4,320 (although this may vary depending on where you apply).

Who is a highly skilled worker in Germany? ›

Persons who have either completed qualified vocational training in Germany (for which a training period of at least two years is generally required) or persons who have acquired a vocational qualification abroad which has been recognised as equivalent to German qualified vocational training.

What is the new immigration law in Germany 2022? ›

What will change? From now on, such migrants who have lived in Germany for more than 5 years as of January 1, 2022, have not committed crimes and are well integrated into society can apply for and receive a residence permit in the country for one year.

How many points are required for Germany PR? ›

Minimum Points required for Germany PR Visa

The minimum points score required is 100 points. These points can be secured from the following criteria and any combination is accepted: Compulsory acquaintance with the German language: 50 to 25 Points (Minimum level needed is A2).

Is it difficult to get a job in Germany? ›

With a huge range of professional opportunities and roles throughout Germany, securing a job isn't as hard as it may be in other countries around the world.

What should be on a German CV? ›

How to write a CV (Lebenslauf) in Germany
  1. First and last name.
  2. Date of birth.
  3. Nationality.
  4. Marital status.
  5. Contact information.
  6. Passport-size photo.
  7. Profile (Profil) - a short description of yourself and your skills / experience / qualifications.

What is a full time job in Germany? ›

A full-time job in Germany usually comprises between 35 and 40 hours each week. You may not work more than 48 hours each week ac- cording to the German Working Hours Act.

What is the easiest job to get in Germany? ›

If you are looking for a job opportunity here, then the easiest jobs you can find in Germany are the ones that are in demand.
...
Top job openings in Germany:
  • Nurses.
  • Business managers.
  • Account managers.
  • Production assistants.
  • Sales managers, representatives.
  • Product managers.
  • Architects.
  • Civil engineers.
19 Oct 2019

Which city has most foreigners in Germany? ›

The German city which has most immigrants is Frankfurt.

It is continental Europe's largest financial center and has a population of approximately 2.5 million in the city and surrounding urban area. The city is in great demand of software developers, programmers, architects, IT consultants, nurses, teachers, etc.

Which is the most English speaking city in Germany? ›

Knowing a few phrases in German will make living in Germany a bit easier. In Hamburg, you can expect people to speak a basic level of English and you'll make it through your day to day life without speaking German.

Can I get a job in Germany without speaking German? ›

In short: yes, there are English-speaking jobs in Germany. Foreigners who look for jobs in tech startups or digital departments have a higher chance of finding work in Germany without speaking German.

What is the minimum salary to get work permit in Germany? ›

If you apply for a Blue Card, your salary must be at least 56,400€ per year (before taxes). If there is a shortage of skilled workers in your field, your salary must be at least 43,992€ per year. This list shows which fields have a shortage of skilled workers. If you can, find a job before you come to Germany.

What jobs are needed in Germany? ›

According to deutschland.de, these are the most highly demanded jobs in Germany in 2022:
  • Software developers, architects, and programmers.
  • Electronics engineers, electricians, and electrical fitters.
  • Nurses.
  • IT consultants and analysts.
  • Economists and business management experts.
  • Customer advisors and account managers.
31 Jan 2022

What is a good salary in Germany? ›

A good annual average salary in Germany is between €64,000 to €81,000. This gross salary (salary before taxes or social contributions) depends on your profession, industry, and education.

Is Germany looking for workers? ›

As per the new immigration rule, Germany is mulling offering dual citizenship and also special citizenship status for 3 to 5 years to skilled workers on fulfilling certain conditions.

How long does it take to get B1 German? ›

How long does it take to learn German?
Assess your current level & test your German online!Intensive course (20 lessons/week)
A1beginner8 weeks
A2elementary8 weeks
B1intermediate8 weeks
B2upper intermediate10 weeks*
2 more rows

What is B1 certificate in Germany? ›

The Goethe-Zertifikat B1 is a German exam for young people and adults. It certifies that candidates are independent users of the German language and corresponds to the third level (B1) on the six-level scale of competence laid down in the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).

What is the age limit to work in Germany? ›

There is no maximum age for an apprenticeship. As a German or a foreigner, you can apply for vocational training at practically any age. Traditionally, it is still common in Germany for apprentices to be of a younger age: most are between 15 and 25 years old.

What are the 4 types of visa? ›

Which type of visa do you need? Probably one of the four main types: tourist, immigration, student, or work.

How much bank balance is required for Germany work visa? ›

German embassies and consulates generally require that you provide a bank statement of an escrow/blocked account (Sperrkonto) with a balance of at least €720 for each month of the visa. For a six-month Job Seeker Visa, this is €4,320 (although this may vary depending on where you apply).

Which skills are in shortage in Germany? ›

According to a recent study, the shortage of skilled workers in Germany is primarily in craft and technical professions. Strong increase in the logistics sector as well as constantly high demand in IT.

Which city in Germany has more job opportunities? ›

Berlin - one of the economic hubs of the world

The capital city of Germany offers some of the best employment opportunities in Berlin. It is one of the economic hubs of the world and attracts a growing number of expats each year that come in search of better career options.

What do German employers look for? ›

German employers typically look for your education, professional experience, skills and extracurricular activities. Learn more about writing German CVs from this comprehensive guide. Career events are your chance to connect directly with German employers and to learn more about their organization and opportunities.

Is 1500 euros enough in Germany? ›

It depends on where and how you want to live. With that income you pay almost zero tax. A room in a shared apartment will cost you anything between 250 Euros in a small town that is not so attractive to 500 Euros or even more in Munich. Food will set you back about 200 Euros.

How much is rent in Germany? ›

On average, to cover your living expenses in Germany you will need around 934 euros per month (around $906 US dollars) or 11,208 euros per year (around $10,876 US dollars).
...
Which region has the highest cost of living in Germany?
Rent
Munich1,094.30€ -1
Berlin795.90€ – 4
Hamburg838.94€ – 3
Frankfurt868.91€ – 2
9 more columns

How many hours work in Germany? ›

Minimum and maximum working time

The maximum daily amount of working time must not exceed ten hours. However, the law stipulates that the working hours on business days (Monday until Saturday) must not exceed an average of eight working hours per day, ie 48 hours per week, over a period of six months or 24 weeks.

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