Germany is the most developed country in the EU, which attracts millions of workers with a high standard of living and decent salaries. Find out more about the procedure for obtaining a work visa in Germany, the required documents and the cost of the permit

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FRG is a country that is ideal for formal employment due to its low unemployment rate, diverse career opportunities, and advantages for gaining valuable experience. Foreigners from many European countries are eager to obtain a work visa in Germany and enjoy the high standard of living that this country offers.

Obtaining a work permit is not easy. Many have to go through rigorous procedures to prove their compliance with the strict requirements of this country. What do you need to do to get a work visa in Germany? How to start a career in this country? Find all the useful information about obtaining a work permit in Germany in our article.

Who needs a work permit in Germany?

To be eligible to work in Germany, you need to obtain a work or residence permit and a work visa. The only exceptions are citizens of EU countries, as well as Australia, Canada, the United States, Japan, Israel, Switzerland, and New Zealand. They do not need a visa to work in Germany. All you need to do is register your place of residence with an identity document. After that, you should apply for a residence permit.

Residents of other countries must apply for a work visa as well as a residence permit for the purpose of employment. Only then can they be officially employed in Germany.

The procedure for obtaining a work visa in Germany

Persons applying for a work visa in Germany must have a job offer or contract. Only then can they submit the required documents to the Federal Office for Foreigners:

1. A completed visa application form in duplicate;

2. 2 photos of 3x4 size;

3. Passport;

4. Certificate of residence;

5. Medical insurance policy;

6. Job offer or employment contract;

7. A completed resume with academic qualifications and work experience;

8. Diplomas or certificates to confirm the level of qualification;

9. Cover letter stating the purpose and duration of your stay in Germany;

10. Certificate of no criminal record;

11. Certificate of payment of the visa fee.

In order to increase your chances of obtaining a visa, your employer may provide an official statement that the job you are offered cannot be performed by other employees from EU member states. You can make an appointment at any German embassy or consulate in your country. Do not forget to prepare for the interview.

Duration and cost of a work visa in Germany

The duration of the visa application process may vary depending on the workload and the queue at the embassy at the time of application. On average, this procedure lasts from 1 to 3 months. In order to get a work permit in time, it is better to submit your application in advance. However, you should warn your employer that you will not be able to start performing your duties immediately after signing the employment contract. 

At the legislative level, the standard cost of a work visa to Germany is 75 euros. Depending on the country in which the application was submitted, the amount may vary. It should be borne in mind that in case of refusal to issue a work permit, the funds will not be reimbursed.

A long-term work visa in Germany is valid for 1 year. This period is also affected by the duration of the employment contract offered to you. The work visa can be extended until the valid employment status changes.

Obtaining a residence permit for employment in Germany

Before applying for a work visa, you must obtain a residence permit in Germany. The only exceptions are EU or EEA citizens. Residence permits are issued by the Federal Employment Agency. It can be obtained at the German consulate or embassy in your country or at the migration authorities in Germany.

There are several types of residence permits in Germany. Let's take a closer look at each of them.

Temporary residence permit for the purpose of employment. This document is a prerequisite for obtaining a work visa in Germany. It can be obtained at the Federal Employment Agency. The validity of the permit depends on the duration of your employment contract. It can be subsequently extended as long as your employment status is up-to-date.

EU Blue Card. This permit is available only for a certain group of persons: foreigners who are not EU citizens but have a high level of qualification. A prerequisite is a bachelor's or master's degree in higher education. The minimum income level is EUR 56,800 per year. For representatives of shortage professions (natural sciences, technology, mathematics, medicine, etc.), this amount has been reduced to 44304 euros. The EU Blue Card is valid for 4 years. Persons who have confirmed their level of German language proficiency can obtain a permanent residence permit after 21 months.

Permanent residence permit. This document allows you to legally stay in Germany for an unlimited period of time. A prerequisite is official employment in Germany for 5 years and successful proof of German language proficiency. 

Thus, Germany is a country of unlimited opportunities for both locals and foreigners. The state provides opportunities for employment in world-famous corporations and companies. Germany is the best choice for migrants seeking rapid career growth.

The editors of Visit World recommend using the Work Guide for Germany for a comfortable and safe trip.

The guide is a detailed written document that contains basic advice on obtaining a visa, crossing the border, getting a job, citizenship, and much more. More details at the link.

Products from Visit World for a comfortable trip:

Checklist for obtaining a visa and necessary documents in Germany;

Legal advice on immigration in Germany;

Travel insurance for foreigners in Germany;

Medical insurance all over the world.

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