Visa Requirements Guide
Check which visa or residence permit you need to work in Germany. Get personalized requirements based on your nationality, qualifications, and job offer.
⚠️ Important Legal Disclaimer - Immigration Law
This tool provides general information only and is NOT legal or immigration advice. Visa and immigration laws are complex, subject to frequent changes, and vary based on individual circumstances. This guide cannot account for all possible situations, exceptions, or recent policy changes.
We strongly recommend consulting with:
- An immigration lawyer (Fachanwalt für Ausländerrecht) for legal advice
- The German embassy or consulate in your country for official requirements
- Your local Ausländerbehörde (immigration office) for residence permit questions
- Professional visa services if needed
ALWAYS verify requirements with official sources before making travel plans, accepting job offers, or submitting applications.We accept no liability for visa denials, delays, or any decisions made based on information provided by this tool. Immigration decisions are made solely by German authorities.
Check Your Visa Requirements
Helps determine if you qualify for EU Blue Card
Shortage occupations have lower salary requirements for EU Blue Card
Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to common questions about using this tool
EU/EEA citizens do NOT need a visa or work permit. Citizens of USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Israel, Japan, and South Korea can enter visa-free for 90 days, then apply for a residence permit from within Germany. All other nationalities must apply for a visa at a German embassy/consulate BEFORE entering Germany.
The EU Blue Card is a special residence permit for highly qualified workers with a university degree and a job offer. Minimum salary: €45,300 (2025), or €41,041.80 for shortage occupations (IT, engineering, doctors). Benefits: easier family reunification, faster path to permanent residence (21-33 months), and ability to work in other EU countries after 18 months.
Yes, if you qualify for a Job Seeker Visa (valid for 6 months). Requirements: university degree recognized in Germany, sufficient funds (€6,000+ recommended), health insurance, and proof of accommodation. You cannot work during this time, only attend interviews. Once you receive a job offer, you can convert to a work visa without leaving Germany.
Timelines vary by country and consulate: National Visa (D) at embassy: 6-12 weeks on average, can be up to 3 months. Residence permit (inside Germany): 4-8 weeks at Ausländerbehörde, up to 6 months in busy cities like Berlin. EU Blue Card: Often faster, 2-6 weeks. Always apply well in advance (3-4 months before your intended start date).
You can apply for degree recognition (Anerkennung) through anabin.kmk.org or ZAB. This process takes 1-4 months and costs €100-600. For regulated professions (doctors, teachers, engineers), recognition is mandatory. For non-regulated professions, recognition is recommended but not always required if your employer confirms your qualifications meet the job requirements.
Yes. Spouses and children under 18 can join you with family reunification visas. Requirements: proof of sufficient living space (minimum size requirements per person), health insurance for all family members, and sufficient income (varies, typically your salary must cover all family members). Spouses can work without restrictions once they receive their visa.
Still have questions?
These calculators provide estimates based on 2025 data. For precise calculations tailored to your specific situation, we recommend consulting with a tax professional or financial advisor.
Disclaimer: The information provided by these tools is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as legal, tax, or financial advice.