Germany is the major economic and political power of the European continent and a historic leader in many theoretical and technical fields.
Working in Germany
If you would like to work in Germany, you need a residence title which permits you to work, that is a residence title for the purpose of employment.
The purposes of your stay and your training as well as your specific qualifications determine which specific residence title you qualify for:
Qualified Professionals
- have received a specific job offer,
- meet the general prerequisites for issuing a residence title, and
- the Federal Employment Agency consents to the employment relationship
Highly-qualified workers
As a highly-qualified foreigner, you may receive an open-ended residence permit immediately, subject to certain preconditions, known as a “settlement permit” (section 19 of the Residence Act). Highly-qualified foreigners are in particular scientists with special technical knowledge, as well as teaching personnel and scientific personnel in prominent positions.
Researchers
As a researcher, you can receive a residence permit for research purposes in accordance with section 20 of the Residence Act
- if a research facility that is recognised by the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees has concluded a hosting agreement with you that is effective to implement a research project, and
- your livelihood is secured by a specific minimum monthly net income. This can be documented by salary, grants or your own savings showing that your livelihood is secure.
Self-employed persons
You can receive a residence permit for the purpose of self-employment if there is an economic interest or a regional need, if the activity is expected to have positive effects on the economy and the funding is secured.
