Getting a Job in Germany: Step-by-Step Guide for Expats
To get a job in Germany, you need to identify which sectors are hiring, prepare a German-style CV and cover letter, apply through the right platforms, and secure the correct visa if you’re a non-EU citizen. Learning basic German, recognizing your qualifications, and networking locally will significantly increase your chances.
Germany has one of Europe’s strongest job markets, and it actively welcomes skilled workers from abroad. But navigating the process requires more than just submitting an online application. Whether you’re aiming for a full-time role in IT or healthcare, a part-time student job, or exploring the country on a job seeker visa, success depends on how well you prepare.
This is your complete, practical guide to starting a successful career in Germany — legally, confidently, and step-by-step.
Germany offers one of the most structured job markets in Europe, with excellent career prospects, high salaries, and strong labor protections. But how to get a job in Germany as a foreigner? Whether you’re a non-EU citizen applying from abroad, or a student trying to land a part-time job while studying, this guide provides a step-by-step breakdown of everything you need to know.
How to Get a Job in Germany: A Quick Overview
To get a job in Germany as a foreigner, follow these key steps:
- Identify in-demand professions where your skills are needed (IT, healthcare, engineering, finance, etc.)
- Get your qualifications recognized in Germany (especially for healthcare and technical fields)
- Learn basic German, ideally up to B1 or higher — even if the job is in English
- Search for jobs on trusted German job portals and company websites
- Prepare a German-style CV and cover letter tailored for each application
- Apply for jobs and be ready for interviews (often virtual for international candidates)
- Secure a job offer and apply for the appropriate Germany work visa or EU Blue Card
- Relocate and register your address, get your tax ID and health insurance, and start your job
If you’re not yet employed, you can also apply for a job seeker visa Germany that allows you to stay in the country for up to six months while looking for work.
You can find the official list of visa requirements at the Federal Foreign Office.
Understand How the German Job Market Works
Know Which Jobs Are in Demand in Germany
If you’re researching how to get a job in Germany, one of the most important steps is knowing where the demand is—and how much you can earn. Germany faces a well-documented skills shortage, especially in science, technology, healthcare, and skilled trades.
The Federal Employment Agency regularly updates its list of shortage occupations, making it easier for qualified foreign workers to obtain a Germany work visa or EU Blue Card. Below is a detailed look at the most in-demand job sectors and typical salary expectations in Germany by industry.
Information Technology (IT) and Software Development
Germany’s tech ecosystem is rapidly growing, with Berlin known as the “startup capital” of Europe. Companies are eager to hire qualified developers, engineers, and analysts—many of whom are hired from outside the EU.
Top IT Jobs in Germany:
- Software Developers (Java, Python, C++)
- DevOps Engineers and Cloud Infrastructure Specialists
- Cybersecurity Analysts and Ethical Hackers
- Data Scientists and Machine Learning Engineers
- Business Intelligence and ERP Consultants
Average Salary:
€60,000 – €85,000 annually (mid-level professionals)
English-speaking roles are widely available, especially in startups and multinational tech firms.
Engineering and Technical Fields
Engineering remains one of the most prestigious and secure career paths in Germany. With its globally recognized automotive and manufacturing sectors, engineers are always in demand—especially if you have experience or a German-recognized degree.
In-Demand Engineering Roles:
- Mechanical Engineers
- Automotive Engineers
- Electrical Engineers
- Civil Engineers
- Industrial and Process Engineers
Average Salary:
€50,000 – €75,000 annually
(Senior engineers in large companies can earn over €90,000)
If you’re a foreign engineer, you may qualify for the Skilled Worker Visa or EU Blue Card, especially if your specialization is on Germany’s shortage list.
Healthcare and Nursing
Germany urgently needs medical staff to care for its aging population. While some roles require German fluency and license recognition, many hospitals actively recruit abroad and offer language support.
High Demand Healthcare Roles:
- Registered Nurses
- Elderly Care Nurses (Pflegefachkraft)
- General Practitioners and Medical Specialists
- Dentists and Physiotherapists
- Radiology and Lab Technicians
Average Salary:
- Nurses: €37,000 – €48,000
- Doctors: €55,000 – €90,000+
- Physiotherapists: €35,000 – €50,000
Many foreign-trained professionals can enter Germany on a job seeker visa and complete the recognition process locally.
Finance, Accounting, and Banking
Germany’s financial sector, especially in Frankfurt, is home to European headquarters of major banks, insurance companies, and consulting firms. While German is often required, many positions in investment banking or fintech startups are available in English.
In-Demand Finance Jobs:
- Financial Analysts and Controllers
- Accountants (IFRS & German GAAP)
- Internal Auditors
- Compliance and Risk Officers
- Tax Advisors
Average Salary:
€55,000 – €85,000 annually
(Senior roles and CFA/CPA-certified professionals earn more)
Roles in finance often offer clear paths to permanent residency via long-term employment.
Skilled Trades and Vocational Jobs
If you’re wondering how to get a job in Germany without a university degree, skilled trades offer real opportunities. These jobs are essential, respected, and often come with good pay and job security.
Top Skilled Trades in Demand:
- Electricians and Installers
- Plumbers and Heating Technicians
- Welders and Machinists
- Industrial Mechanics
- Truck Drivers (CE license required)
Average Salary:
€35,000 – €55,000 annually
(Some tradespeople in cities with high demand can earn over €60,000)
The Skilled Worker Immigration Act makes it easier for experienced tradespeople to receive work visas.
Education and Childcare
There’s rising demand for qualified educators, especially in bilingual and international schools in urban areas. Native English speakers with teaching credentials are often sought for early education and language instruction.
Key Roles in Education:
- Kindergarten Teachers (Erzieher/in)
- Primary and Secondary School Teachers
- English Language Instructors
- Special Education Teachers
Average Salary:
- Kindergarten: €30,000 – €42,000
- High School Teachers: €45,000 – €60,000
- Private or International Schools: €50,000 – €70,000
These jobs often require fluent German and qualification recognition but offer long-term career growth.
Renewable Energy and Environmental Engineering
Germany’s ambitious energy transition (Energiewende) is fueling demand in the green tech and sustainability sectors. Specialists in solar, wind, and smart grid tech are increasingly sought after.
In-Demand Roles:
- Renewable Energy Engineers
- Environmental Consultants
- Sustainability Managers
- Project Coordinators (Energy Sector)
Average Salary:
€50,000 – €70,000 annually
(Varies by city and project scale)
This sector favors engineers and technicians with green energy experience or training.
Summary of Average Salary in Germany by Sector
| Industry | Typical Annual Gross Salary |
|---|---|
| Software Development | €60,000 – €85,000 |
| Engineering | €50,000 – €75,000 |
| Healthcare & Nursing | €37,000 – €90,000 |
| Finance & Accounting | €55,000 – €85,000 |
| Skilled Trades | €35,000 – €55,000 |
| Education | €30,000 – €70,000 |
| Renewable Energy | €50,000 – €70,000 |
All figures reflect gross annual income before tax. Salaries vary by experience, city, and employer size.
Get Your Qualifications Recognized in Germany
Before you can legally work in Germany—especially in a regulated profession—you need to ensure that your qualifications are officially recognized. This step is mandatory for many roles, and it significantly boosts your chances of employment, salary level, and visa approval.
Who Needs Recognition of Qualifications?
Qualification recognition is required or highly recommended if you plan to:
- Work in regulated professions such as healthcare (nursing, physiotherapy, medicine), teaching, engineering, law, or skilled trades
- Apply for a Germany work visa or EU Blue Card, where proof of qualification is often mandatory
- Apply for a job seeker visa Germany, where your degree must meet German academic standards
- Boost your job prospects in competitive fields where German employers prefer certified credentials
Even if you’re in a non-regulated sector like marketing, IT, or sales, having recognized qualifications can set you apart from other candidates.
What Documents You’ll Need for Qualification Recognition
To start the process, prepare the following:
- Your academic degree or vocational certificate (e.g., diploma, bachelor’s, master’s)
- Certified translations into German (or English if accepted), done by a sworn translator
- Proof of course content and duration, such as transcripts or a syllabus
- Proof of relevant work experience, especially for vocational professions
- Your passport and CV to verify your identity and career history
- Formal application form specific to your profession or sector
Make sure to scan or photocopy all documents before submission.
How to Apply for Recognition (Step-by-Step)
- Visit the official platform: Use the Anerkennung in Deutschland (Recognition in Germany) website to identify the correct authority for your profession.
- Submit an initial assessment: You may first complete a free “self-check” to evaluate whether recognition is required.
- Contact the responsible authority: Depending on your field and where you want to live, the local chamber (e.g., IHK for trades) or licensing body (e.g., medical board) will process your application.
- Pay the processing fee: Usually between €100 and €600, depending on the complexity and profession.
- Wait for your result: Processing time typically ranges from 4 to 12 weeks. You’ll receive one of the following:
- Full recognition (your qualifications are equivalent)
- Partial recognition (you may need to take exams or additional training)
- Rejection (qualifications not recognized)
Examples by Profession
- Nurses and caregivers must apply through local health authorities (Landesamt für Gesundheit) and pass a German language test (usually B2 level).
- Engineers apply through the Chamber of Engineers (Ingenieurkammer) and may need additional technical documentation.
- Skilled tradespeople (electricians, mechanics) apply via the IHK (Chamber of Industry and Commerce), often using the “IHK FOSA” platform.
Why Qualification Recognition Matters for Your Visa
If you’re applying for any of the following, recognition is either required or strongly recommended:
EU Blue Card: Requires a university degree and a job offer with a minimum salary threshold. Recognition speeds up the approval process.
Job Seeker Visa Germany: You must prove your degree is comparable to a German one.
Germany Work Visa: Employers and visa officials want verified qualifications for regulated or high-responsibility jobs.
Search for Jobs Using Reliable Platforms
Best Online Job Portals in Germany for Expats
If you’re wondering how to get job offer in Germany, start with the right job boards:
- LinkedIn – Excellent for expat-friendly roles and global companies
- StepStone – One of Germany’s biggest job platforms, with roles in all industries
- Indeed Germany – Especially helpful for English-speaking and part-time jobs
- Xing – Germany’s version of LinkedIn, popular among locals
- Make it in Germany – Government platform targeting skilled foreign workers
Use keywords in both English and German to maximize your search.
Prepare a German-Style CV and Cover Letter
What a German CV (Lebenslauf) Looks Like
Understanding how to tailor your application is critical in how to get a job in Germany. Your CV should include:
- Personal details (including a professional photo)
- Employment history in reverse chronological order
- Educational background
- Skills, language proficiency, and certifications
- Optional: Hobbies or interests
CVs are typically one to two pages. Avoid creative formats—stick to clear and structured templates.
How to Write a German Cover Letter
In Germany, a well-written cover letter (Anschreiben) is non-negotiable. It should:
- Be one page long
- Mention the exact position you’re applying for
- Explain why you want to work at the company
- Highlight your relevant qualifications and motivation
Improve Your Chances by Learning German
Why German Language Skills Are Crucial for Getting a Job in Germany
One of the biggest myths about working in Germany is the belief that English is enough. While some roles in tech or international companies may use English as the working language, the reality is that most jobs in Germany still require at least basic German skills, and those who ignore this fact drastically reduce their chances of success.
If you’re wondering how to get a job in Germany as a foreigner, understand this: language proficiency isn’t optional — it’s a career multiplier.
The Truth: English Alone Limits Your Options
Many expats and job seekers are told they can “get by with English,” but that advice is misleading. Here’s why relying on English alone is a risk:
- The majority of employers — including startups — expect some level of German, especially in communication-heavy roles (sales, HR, customer support, marketing, healthcare).
- Government-related jobs, public sector roles, and regulated professions legally require German proficiency.
- Even in English-speaking companies, internal communication, documentation, or team meetings may often revert to German.
If you speak zero German, your job search will be limited to a narrow slice of the market — mostly low-paying entry-level roles or niche international employers.
How Language Skills Impact Your Salary and Promotion Opportunities
German doesn’t just help you get a job — it helps you get a better job.
- Employers pay more when you can interact with German-speaking clients, manage local teams, or work cross-departmentally.
- Promotion opportunities often depend on your ability to attend internal trainings, read company documentation, or take leadership roles — all of which usually happen in German.
- Salary negotiations are easier when you can communicate directly, rather than relying on translations or English-speaking HR.
According to market data, professionals with B2 or C1 level German can earn 10% to 25% more than those who speak only English in the same field.
Living in Germany Without Speaking German Can Be Isolating
Beyond the workplace, daily life in Germany often requires German — especially in small towns or when dealing with essential services:
- Public offices (Bürgeramt, Ausländerbehörde, Finanzamt) rarely operate in English. You’ll need German to register your address, handle visa matters, or manage taxes.
- Doctors, pharmacies, landlords, and customer service agents often speak only German, or prefer it. Misunderstandings can lead to costly errors.
- Social integration is harder. Without German, it’s challenging to make local friends, join community activities, or feel truly part of the society.
Even in Berlin — often described as “international” — many locals won’t switch to English unless absolutely necessary, especially with Middle Eastern, Asian, or African expats, who may not receive the same linguistic privilege extended to Americans or Northern Europeans.
Minimum Recommended Level: Aim for B1 or Higher
- A2 Level: Basic understanding; okay for low-skill part-time jobs but not for professional roles.
- B1 Level: Conversational; enough for many office jobs, visa interviews, and daily interactions.
- B2/C1 Level: Professional fluency; opens the most doors, including managerial positions and higher salaries.
If you’re serious about how to get a job in Germany, start learning German as early as possible. Many language schools and online platforms offer affordable courses, and some integration courses are government-subsidized..
Understand Work Visa Options for Non-EU Citizens
Types of Work Visas in Germany
If you’re a non-EU citizen researching how to get a job in Germany, you’ll need one of the following:
- EU Blue Card – For university graduates with a job offer paying above the minimum salary threshold (currently ~€45,000+)
- Skilled Worker Visa – For those with vocational training in approved occupations
- Job Seeker Visa Germany – A 6-month visa that lets you enter Germany to look for a job. No work is allowed during this time.
- ICT Card or Freelance Visa – For intra-company transfers and freelancers, depending on your employment structure
How to Get a Job Seeker Visa in Germany: Step-by-Step Instructions
The job seeker visa Germany allows qualified non-EU citizens to enter Germany and look for a job for up to six months. It is ideal for individuals who want to explore job opportunities before receiving a formal offer. Follow these steps to apply successfully.
Step 1: Confirm That You’re Eligible
To qualify for the job seeker visa in Germany, you must:
- Hold a recognized university degree equivalent to a German degree
- Have at least five years of relevant work experience (recommended)
- Show proof of financial stability to support yourself for six months
- Be able to demonstrate a genuine interest in working in Germany
Step 2: Gather All Required Documents
Prepare the following documentation before applying:
- Valid passport with at least 12 months of validity
- University degree and transcripts, translated and certified
- Proof of degree recognition (via Anabin or ZAB)
- Curriculum Vitae (CV), formatted to German standards
- Motivation letter explaining your career goals in Germany
- Proof of accommodation in Germany (e.g. rental contract, hotel reservation)
- Financial proof showing approx. €6,000 available (blocked account or bank statement)
- Health insurance coverage valid in Germany for your entire stay
Step 3: Schedule a Visa Appointment
- Contact the German embassy or consulate in your country
- Book a visa interview through their official appointment system
- Be sure to apply from your country of legal residence, not from Germany
Step 4: Submit Your Visa Application
- Attend your appointment with the complete set of documents
- Pay the application fee (approx. €75)
- Answer questions about your job plans and qualifications
- Ensure all forms are correctly filled out to avoid rejection
Step 5: Wait for Visa Processing
- Processing time ranges from 4 to 10 weeks, depending on the embassy and application volume
- You will receive your visa in your passport upon approval
Step 6: Travel to Germany and Start Job Searching
- Upon arrival, register your address (Anmeldung) at the local Bürgeramt
- Begin actively searching for jobs using platforms like LinkedIn, StepStone, and Make it in Germany
- Attend interviews, career fairs, and networking events
- Apply for positions aligned with your qualifications
Step 7: Convert to a Germany Work Visa Once You Get a Job Offer
- As soon as you secure a job offer, apply to change your residence permit to a Germany work visa or EU Blue Card
- You do not need to leave the country to make this switch
- Provide your new employment contract and supporting documents for the status change
Important Notes About the Job Seeker Visa Germany
Your chances of visa approval increase if your profession is listed as in-demand in Germany
This visa does not allow you to work, even part-time, while in Germany
It is a single-entry visa, meaning you cannot leave and re-enter during the validity period
Use the Anabin database to verify whether your degree is recognized in Germany.
How to Get a Part Time Job in Germany as a Student
International students in Germany can legally work up to 20 hours per week during semesters and full-time during breaks.
Where to Find Part-Time Jobs as a Student
- University job boards
- Cafés, restaurants, and shops
- Research assistant (HiWi) positions
- Online platforms like Zenjob or YoungCapital
Make sure your contract respects the legal working hour limits. Earnings up to €538/month are tax-free, but higher income may require a tax number.
Understand German Employment Contracts and Work Culture
What’s in a Typical German Work Contract
German contracts clearly define expectations. Here’s what to look for:
- Job description and working hours
- Probation period (usually 6 months)
- Salary (gross monthly pay)
- Vacation days (minimum 24 per year)
- Notice period (usually 4 weeks after probation)
Germany’s labor laws strongly protect workers—understanding your contract is essential.
Work Culture in Germany
- Punctuality is critical
- Direct communication is common in meetings and emails
- Work-life balance is highly valued; overtime is either compensated or limited
Network Strategically to Increase Job Opportunities
How Networking Helps You Get a Job in Germany
Not every job is advertised publicly. Some are filled via referrals and internal recommendations. Join:
- Industry meetups
- Local startup events
- Professional associations like IHK
- LinkedIn and Xing groups
Be active—introduce yourself, share your expertise, and stay connected.
Overcome Challenges as a Foreigner in the German Job Market
Common Barriers and How to Deal with Them
- Language Barriers – Keep improving your German; even A2 can be helpful
- Recognition of Qualifications – Start the process early
- Discrimination – Germany has legal protections through the AGG (General Equal Treatment Act). If you feel targeted, document everything and contact HR or a legal advisor
Despite occasional obstacles, Germany remains one of the most immigrant-friendly countries in Europe for skilled professionals.
FAQ:
What are the best jobs for foreigners in Germany?
The best jobs for foreigners in Germany include positions in IT, engineering, healthcare, and finance. Roles such as software engineers, data scientists, mechanical engineers, and healthcare professionals are in high demand. Jobs in tech and multinational companies may require English, while other sectors benefit from German language skills.
How long does it take to get a job in Germany?
It can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months to get a job in Germany, depending on the industry, your qualifications, and the job market. Highly skilled workers in sectors like tech or engineering may find opportunities faster, while other industries may take longer due to competition and visa requirements.
Can I get a job in Germany only speaking English?
Yes, you can get a job in Germany speaking only English, especially in international companies, tech, and finance sectors where English is commonly used. However, learning German will significantly improve your job prospects, especially for customer-facing roles and positions outside of multinational companies.
Is getting a job in Germany difficult?
Getting a job in Germany can be challenging, depending on your skills, qualifications, and the sector you’re applying to. For highly skilled professionals in industries like IT, engineering, and healthcare, it’s easier to find work. However, non-EU citizens need to navigate visa requirements, and proficiency in German is often essential for many roles.
