To Germany as a graduate , Date: 2024.08.26, 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 one year to look for a job.

You can find further information on the website www.make-it-in-germany.com.

You wish to take up a new job in Germany

If you are interested in working here in future and already have a university degree, there are several possibilities for you to come to Germany.

With a concrete job offer

To obtain a residence title for employment, two important conditions need to be met:

1. Proof of a German or recognised foreign university degree or a foreign university degree which is comparable to a German university degree (further information on the recognition and comparability of degrees is available from the hotline Working and Living in Germany).

2. Presentation of a concrete job offer or an employment contract for a job that can be performed with this academic qualification.

   For people aged 45 or over, when this residence title is issued for the first time, the salary must correspond to at least 55 percent of the annual contribution assessment ceiling in the general pension insurance scheme, or proof of adequate pension provision must be provided.

To obtain recognition of your degree or vocational qualification

Detailed information on this topic can be found on the following webpage: www.make-it-in-germany.com/.

You wish to shorten the entry procedure

Link to the information hotline "working and living in Germany" Source: © Make it in Germany

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.

Once you have successfully completed your course of studies in Germany

Once you have successfully completed your course of studies in Germany, you will receive a residence permit for up to 18 months to look for a job if you can prove that your livelihood is ensured during this period. You may work during this period.

Once you have completed your professional activity

If you have not found subsequent employment once your work in Germany has been completed, you may apply for a residence permit to look for work (known as a Chancenkarte [Opportunities Card]) for up to one year. Please contact the immigration authority competent for the place where you live for this purpose in good time.