Work permit for skilled workers from abroad: the most important requirements

Who needs a work permit?

Skilled workers from non-EU countries require a work permit in order to work in Germany. EU, EEA and Swiss nationals have free access to the German labor market and do not require a separate permit.

1. requirements for a work permit

Skilled workers from third countries must meet the following criteria:

• QualificationA recognized professional or academic education.
• Job offerA concrete employment contract or a binding job offer.
• Labor market test (if required)The Federal Employment Agency checks whether no preferred applicant (EU citizen) is available for the position.
• SalaryThe salary must correspond to the collectively agreed or customary local conditions.

2. requirements for a work permit

Skilled workers from third countries must meet the following criteria:

• QualificationA recognized professional or academic education.
• Job offerA concrete employment contract or a binding job offer.
• Labor market test (if required)The Federal Employment Agency checks whether no preferred applicant (EU citizen) is available for the position.
• SalaryThe salary must correspond to the collectively agreed or customary local conditions.

3. special regulations for certain occupational groups

Some skilled workers have easier access to the labor market:

• EU Blue CardFor highly qualified employees with an annual salary above a certain threshold (approx. €45,000 or €39,000 in shortage occupations, as of 2024).
• Shortage occupationsOccupations with a shortage of skilled workers (e.g. engineers, IT specialists, nursing staff) often have simplified conditions.
• Western Balkans regulationNationals from Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia and Serbia can obtain a work permit under certain conditions.

4. recognition of foreign qualifications

Skilled workers with foreign qualifications must have these recognized. The central office for this is "Recognition in Germany" or the respective chamber (e.g. Chamber of Industry and Commerce, Chamber of Crafts).

5. procedure for applying for a work permit

1. Get a job offerThe employer issues a commitment to hire.
2. Apply for a visaThe skilled worker applies for a national visa at the German embassy in the country of origin.
3. Labor market admissionThe Federal Employment Agency examines and grants approval.
4. Entry to GermanyAfter receiving the visa, the skilled worker can enter the country.
5. Apply for a residence permitWithin 90 days of entering the country, you must apply for a residence permit for gainful employment at the immigration office.

6 Duration and extension

• The work permit is usually tied to the employment contract.
• Extensions are possible if the employment relationship is continued.
• After several years, a Settlement permit can be applied for.