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Finding work
Switch your visa to Job search
If you are a student and have completed your studies and exmatriculated, you can convert your student visa into a job-seeking visa, which allows you to stay in Germany for another 18 months and look for a job. If you already have a job before completing your studies, you can apply directly for a Work Permit or a Blue Card.
Inform yourself about the job market & requirements
The job market in Germany is very open to international applicants. Before you start your applications, it is important that you know the general requirements for the job you are looking for. Make sure you meet the general requirements and adapt your cover letter and CV accordingly. Building contacts with people in your field of interest will help you in your job search.
Create a professional CV
A well-structured and complete CV is an essential step when applying for a job in Germany. Make sure there are no gaps in your CV and that it shows your qualifications in an orderly and clear manner.
Create a cover letter
In some countries, the cover letter may be the least important part of the application, but not so in Germany. Depending on the company and recruiter you are applying to, a German cover letter may be the most important part. A cover letter conveys your professionalism, your skills, and your achievements.
Start searching for a job
Once you have the correct visa and a finalised CV, you can apply for job vacancies. Make sure you make small changes to your CV according to the requirements of the job and write a cover letter that matches the job and the profile of the company you are applying to. There are various large job portals where you can usually tailor your search to your skills and preferences. In addition, you can also find the current job advertisements directly on the companies' websites.
Check important information on job contract
Once you have received a job offer, the joy and excitement is great and all efforts seem to be worthwhile. But don't let this joy and excitement overshadow some important official things you still have to do. One of these is signing a contract with the company. Check all the information in the contract before you sign it, and if in doubt, ask the company for clarification.
Understand the residency requirements
As soon as you start a job in Germany as a non-national, you need either a work permit or a Blue Card, which entitles you to work in the European Union. If you have either one, you can legally take up full-time employment. Make sure you know the requirements and the advantages and disadvantages of each.
Apply for a work permit or Blue Card
If you know whether you can apply for a work permit or a Blue Card, contact your local foreigner’s authority. Be sure to apply for an appointment in time to avoid any problems that could delay your process.
Get informed about the Permanent Residence
After a certain period of time living and working in Germany with a temporary residence visa, you can apply for a permanent residence permit. As the name suggests, this type of residence permit entitles you to stay in Germany indefinitely and gives you free access to the labour market.
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