Work in Germany

Who qualifies

• Skilled workers need a recognized degree or vocational qualification and a job offer that matches it.
• EU Blue Card applicants must meet salary thresholds and have a recognized university degree (or an equivalent in-demand IT path).
• Regulated professions (healthcare, teaching, engineering) require formal recognition before a visa is issued.

German level needed

• English-speaking tech roles can be possible, but most employers still expect at least B1 for daily work.
• Regulated professions usually require B2 or higher German for licensing and patient/client communication.
• For long-term integration, plan for B1/B2 even if the job ad is in English.

Timeline

• 4–8 months: get qualification recognition (ZAB or the relevant chamber) and collect work experience proofs.
• 3–6 months: job search, interviews, and contract negotiation; ensure salary meets visa requirements.
• 2–3 months: visa appointment and processing, then prepare relocation (housing, Anmeldung, insurance).

Common mistakes

• Applying without recognition documents or with a job offer that does not match the qualification.
• Assuming any salary qualifies for a Blue Card—thresholds change yearly and vary by shortage occupations.
• Skipping language planning and later struggling with probation periods, paperwork, or client contact.