With vocational qualifications , Date: 2024.03.01, format: Article, area: Migration and residence

You wish to look for a job in Germany

If you didn’t find a job before entering Germany, you have the opportunity to come to Germany for up to six months to look for a job.

For this, the following conditions need to be met:

1. Proof of completed qualified German vocational training or vocational qualifications acquired abroad which are equivalent to qualified German vocational training. You can find further information on this equivalence at the website www.anerkennung-in-deutschland.de.
2. Proof of German language skills which correspond to the intended occupation.
3. Proof that your livelihood is secured for the duration of your stay in Germany.

With a residence title for the purpose of job searching, you are fundamentally not permitted to work. However, trial employment for up to 10 hours per week is permitted if the qualification entitles you to perform the work.

Further information can be found on the following webpage: www.make-it-in-germany.com/en.

You wish to take up a new job in Germany

You will find all the information that you need on the following website: www.make-it-in-germany.com/de.

To obtain recognition for your vocational qualification

As the procedures and requirements vary between the individual occupations, you should contact the "Working and Living in Germany Hotline" for individual advice.

You will also find all the information that you need on the following website: www.make-it-in-germany.com/de.

You wish to shorten the entry procedure

On 01 March 2020, Germany introduced a special procedure for skilled workers which facilitates and accelerates the entry of skilled workers. Read more in the section "Accelerated procedure for skilled workers" (see "further information/texts and articles").

After successful completion of a German occupational qualification

If you have successfully completed training in Germany, your residence permit can be extended for up to twelve months in order for you to find a suitable job. You may work during this time.

After termination of employment

If, after termination of your employment in Germany, you have not found a subsequent job, you have the option of applying for a residence permit for up to six months to look for a job. For this, please contact the foreigners’ registration office responsible for your place of residence in good time.