German Employment Visas: From Blue Card to Job Seeker
Navigating the intricacies of Germany’s skilled migration laws can be daunting. To simplify the process, we’ve compiled a small guide outlining the different types of employment visas available. Just to come clear at the beginning: this is not a buffet where you pick and choose what you like, but depending on your background, your profession and your job offer in most cases only one visa type is the right one for your case.
At the core of the skilled migration act is the requirement to demonstrate your expertise (“skills”), often through a recognition process. If you have a job offer in front of you and you’re unsure which visa aligns with your situation or if you need assistance with recognition, schedule a consultation with us for personalized support.
When it comes to employment visas, there are primarily three categories to consider: visas for full recognition employment, visas for partial recognition or adaptation qualifications, and visas for job seekers in Germany. Notably, none of these visa types necessitates hiring an agent; many individuals successfully navigate the application process without an agent.
Visa for Employment
In order to get a blue card, you need to meet salary threshold which depend on the profession. These thresholds change every year and are calculated by the Federal Employment Agency.
You have a job offer but the salary threshold of Blue card is not met? Fear not: there is also a “regular” employment visa for you. The process of approval for it is however slightly different than from the blue card.
Visa with a partial recognition or for an adaptation qualification
These visas indicate that you’ve undergone recognition process but may require additional qualifications or training to attain full recognition. Depending on your profession you might need to demonstrate proficiency of the German language when applying for the visa. After arriving in Germany with theses visas, you might have to gain more practical working experience, or join an advanced German courses or other training measures depending on your recognition notice.
There is also a new visa type which allows to start the recognition process after arrival in Germany if you have a job offer from a company who supports you in this process. This is called the Anerkennungspartnerschaft (Recognition partnership) and requires you to demonstrate A2 German skills when applying for the Visa. Please contact us via email if you together with a German company are interested in pursuing this visa option.
Visa for looking for jobs
This category includes the Job Seeker Visa and, from June 2024, the Chancenkarte. Our blog posts provide detailed insights into understanding the Job Seeker Visa, securing employment post-issuance, and preliminary information about the Chancenkarte.
Where can I get help?
For insights into visa misconceptions and common myths, refer to our collaborative blog with the German consulate in Mumbai. Given the multitude of visa options available for employment in Germany, and considering the unique characteristics of each individual’s career trajectory, we understand that navigating the visa landscape can be complex. That’s why we offer personalized guidance tailored to your specific circumstances or to German companies seeking to hire Indian talent. By assessing your qualifications, job offers, and other pertinent factors, we can provide expert advice on selecting the appropriate visa type for your situation. Whether you’re an individual applicant or a prospective employer, we’re here to ensure a smooth and efficient visa application process that aligns with your needs and objectives.
