There are at least 15 types of residence Permits available in Germany as of 2023.
In this blog post, I will try to provide you with as much information as possible about each of these residence permits and visas.
There are residence permits that allow you to bring your immediate dependents (Spouse and children), while there are other permits that do not allow this.
Based on your individual situation and preferences, you might want to identify the right visa that suits your needs.
Let’s get started with the most famous and highly valued Residence permit cum visa – The Employment visa
1. Employment visa
An employment visa is the most common and widely issued visa type.
The holder of this visa is allowed to stay and work in Germany for the duration of their job contract.
| Duration of visa | Same as the job contract duration |
| Can study in Germany? | Yes |
| Can work in Germany? | Yes |
| Can bring dependents to Germany? | Yes |
| Is a visa extension possible? | Yes, based on the Job contract |
Example Scenario
Consider an example where John gets hired by a software company Acme GmbH. Acme GmbH will provide an employment contract to John which can be used to apply for the Employment visa. John can travel to Germany with this visa and work for his Employer for the duration of his job contract.
2. Jobseeker Visa
A Jobseeker visa allows the visa holder to stay in Germany for a period of 6 months and search for jobs relevant to their educational qualification.
A Jobseeker visa is amongst the most granted visa types in Germany where a Non-EU professional comes to Germany for a fixed duration in search of a job.
This type of visa is useful for those who are in high-demand professions like Engineering, IT, Management, etc.
The Jobseeker visa itself doesn’t allow you to work in Germany.
Once you get a job, you should get the visa converted to either a Blue card or an Employment visa to work for your employer.
You can read more about the Jobseeker visa here.
| Duration of visa | 6 months |
| Can study in Germany? | No |
| Can work in Germany? | No |
| Can bring dependents to Germany? | No |
| Is a visa extension possible? | Under certain exceptional cases only |
Example scenario
Consider the scenario when John is trying to find a job in Germany from India or any other non-EU country. It is hard to get shortlisted for the job posts and to appear for in-person interviews.
John decides to apply for a Jobseeker visa. With the Jobseeker visa, John will be able to travel to Germany even without a job in hand. He can first travel to Germany and then look for jobs.
A jobseeker visa will give 6 months of time for John to search for a job in Germany which is usually more than enough for skilled personnel like John.
3. EU Blue card
EU Blue card is a type of visa obtained by professionals who earn above a minimum threshold salary.
In 2023, the minimum salary requirement to get an EU Blue card is 58,400 Euros. For those in the fields of Mathematics, IT, Science, Engineering, and Medicine needs a minimum of 45,552 Euros.
A Blue card is usually given to highly skilled professionals in the fields of Engineering, IT, Medicine, Management, etc.
A Blue card is not specific to Germany but is valid across Europe. This means that a person who holds a Blue card can work anywhere in Europe.
| Duration of visa | Depends on Employment contract |
| Can study in Germany? | Yes |
| Can work in Germany? | Yes |
| Can bring dependents to Germany? | Yes |
| Is a visa extension possible? | Yes, based on the Job contract |
Another benefit of having a Blue card is that after two years of stay in Germany, you can apply for a Permanent Residence Permit (PR).
Do you have further questions?
Join our community of job seekers and experts from Germany. You can ask your doubts and get expert advice on topics related to getting a job in Germany and several other related topics.
4. Student Visa
A Student visa is designed for international students who wish to pursue their studies in Germany. This visa is essential for non-EU/EEA nationals who have been accepted into a study program in a German institution.
| Duration of visa | For the length of the study program |
| Can study in Germany? | Yes |
| Can work in Germany? | Limited (typically 120 full days or 240 half days per year) |
| Can bring dependents to Germany? | No |
| Is a visa extension possible? | Yes, for completing the studies |
With a Student visa, international students can complete their studies and, upon graduation, can apply for a Residence Permit for Job Seekers, which allows them to stay in Germany for an additional 18 months to look for a job in their field of study.
5. Freelancer visa
The Freelancer Visa, sometimes also referred to as the Artist Visa or Digital Nomad visa for Germany, is designed for independent workers who wish to pursue self-employment in Germany. This visa is suitable for freelancers in various fields such as artists, writers, designers, consultants, and other independent professionals who intend to offer their services in Germany.
| Duration of visa | Up to 3 years |
| Can study in Germany? | No |
| Can work in Germany? | Yes |
| Can bring dependents to Germany? | Yes |
| Is a visa extension possible? | Yes |
Eligibility
To be eligible for the Freelancer Visa, applicants must demonstrate that their freelance work is in demand in Germany. This can be shown through letters of intent or contracts from potential clients, a robust business plan, and sometimes, references from previous clients or collaborators.
Financial Stability
Applicants must also prove financial stability, ensuring that they are able to support themselves and any dependents without relying on public funds. This can be demonstrated through bank statements, savings, or a steady income stream.
Health Insurance
Having a valid health insurance plan is mandatory. The insurance plan must cover all potential health risks in Germany.
Residence
Applicants should have a valid address in Germany. Sometimes, a rental contract or a letter from a landlord is required.
Tax Implications
Freelancers are required to manage their own tax obligations. Once the visa is approved, freelancers need to register their business and adhere to German tax regulations, including VAT if their income exceeds a certain threshold.
Example Scenario
Consider Lisa, a freelance graphic designer from a non-EU country. She has a few clients in Germany and wishes to move there to expand her business.
Lisa applied for the Freelancer Visa by submitting her portfolio, a business plan, contracts from her German clients, and proof of her financial stability.
Once in Germany, Lisa registered her business, paid taxes, and worked with clients across the country while residing there.
6. ICT visa
The Intra-Corporate Transfer (ICT) Visa is designed for managers, specialists, and trainee employees who are transferred from a company in a non-EU country to a branch or subsidiary in Germany. This visa allows non-EU nationals to work and stay in Germany while remaining on a contract with their non-EU employer.
| Duration of visa | Up to 3 years |
| Can study in Germany? | No |
| Can work in Germany? | Yes, for the sending company |
| Can bring dependents to Germany? | Yes |
| Is a visa extension possible? | No |
Eligibility
The applicant must have been employed by the sending company for at least 6 months before the transfer and must be transferred to a position that matches their qualifications and expertise.
Application Documents
Applicants typically need to provide a valid contract from the sending company, proof of their position and duration of the transfer, and sometimes, proof of qualifications and expertise in the field.
Mobility within the EU
The ICT visa also allows the visa holder to work in entities of the company in other EU member states for up to 90 days within a 180-day period without requiring an additional visa.
Family Reunification
Dependents of the ICT visa holder are usually allowed to join them in Germany and have the right to work and study in the country.
Example Scenario
Consider Maria, a specialist in a multinational IT company located in India. The company has a subsidiary in Germany and wishes to transfer Maria there for a project that requires her expertise. Maria can apply for the ICT visa by providing her employment details, the transfer contract, and other relevant documents. Once in Germany, Maria worked on the project while staying with her family, who she brought with her under the family reunification provision.
7. Family Reunion Visa
The Family Reunion Visa in Germany is designed to allow the family members of a resident in Germany to join them in the country. This visa is applicable to non-EU/EEA nationals who are family members of a German resident and wish to join them in Germany.
| Duration of visa | Same as the main applicant |
| Can study in Germany? | Yes |
| Can work in Germany? | Yes |
| Can bring dependents to Germany? | N/A |
| Is a visa extension possible? | Yes |
Eligibility
The family member residing in Germany must have a valid residence permit, enough living space, and sufficient and stable income to support the incoming family members without relying on public funds.
Application Documents
Applicants typically need to provide proof of relationship (like marriage certificate, birth certificate), proof of basic German language skills (usually A1 level), and sometimes, proof of no criminal record.
Family Members
The visa is applicable to spouses, registered partners, and minor children. In some cases, parents of minor children residing in Germany may also apply.
Integration Course
Family members may need to attend an integration course in Germany, which helps them to adapt to life in the country.
Example Scenario
Consider Alex, a software engineer residing in Germany on an EU Blue Card. Alex’s spouse, Taylor, wishes to join him in Germany. Taylor applies for the Family Reunion Visa by providing the marriage certificate, proof of basic German language skills, and other relevant documents. Once in Germany, Taylor is allowed to work and, if applicable, study, while residing with Alex.
8. AU Pair Visa
The AU Pair Visa is designated for young adults who wish to reside in Germany to engage in a cultural exchange while living with a host family. The term “AU Pair” originates from the French term “on par” or “equal to,” reflecting the reciprocal relationship where the AU Pair assists the host family with childcare and light household chores in exchange for room, board, and a chance to immerse themselves in the German culture.
| Duration of visa | Upto 12 months |
| Can study in Germany? | Yes |
| Can work in Germany? | Yes, only for the host family |
| Can bring dependents to Germany? | No |
| Is a visa extension possible? | Under specific circumstances |
Eligibility
The AU Pair must be between 18 and 27 years old, have basic knowledge of the German language (usually A1 level), and must not have children or be married.
Working Hours
The AU Pair is expected to help with childcare and light household chores for around 30 hours per week.
Language Course
Part of the AU Pair program involves attending a German language course, which is usually financed by the AU Pair themselves.
Insurance
The host family typically provides health, accident, and liability insurance.
Application Documents
Applicants need to provide a signed AU Pair contract, proof of language skills, and sometimes, a clean criminal record.
Example Scenario
Consider Emily, a 20-year-old from Australia, who wants to experience German culture and improve her German language skills. She matches with a host family in Berlin through an AU Pair agency. Emily applied for the AU Pair Visa by providing the signed contract, proof of basic German skills, and other relevant documents. Once in Germany, she assists the host family with childcare and light chores while attending a language course and exploring the culture and surroundings.
9. Specialty Cook Visa
The Specialty Cook Visa in Germany is designed for chefs who have specialized knowledge in foreign cuisines and are hired to work in a German restaurant that serves that particular cuisine. This visa allows chefs from non-EU countries to come to Germany and share their culinary expertise, thereby contributing to the diverse gastronomic landscape in the country.
| Duration of visa | Upto 3 years |
| Can study in Germany? | No |
| Can work in Germany? | Yes, as a specialty cook |
| Can bring dependents to Germany? | Yes |
| Is a visa extension possible? | Yes |
Eligibility
The applicant must have specialized knowledge and experience in a specific foreign cuisine and must have a job offer or contract from a German restaurant that serves that cuisine.
Application Documents
Applicants typically need to provide a valid work contract, proof of their specialized culinary knowledge and experience, and sometimes, health insurance and proof of accommodation in Germany.
Language Skills
Basic German language skills may be required to ensure smooth communication in the workplace.
Working Hours
The working hours are subject to the employment contract and must adhere to German labor laws.
Example Scenario
Consider Ravi, a chef specialized in traditional Indian cuisine, who has been working in a renowned Indian restaurant in Mumbai for several years. A German restaurant in Berlin, which serves authentic Indian cuisine, offers him a position as a specialty cook to bring more authenticity to their dishes. Ravi applies for the Specialty Cook Visa by providing his work contract, proof of his culinary expertise in Indian cuisine, and other relevant documents. Once in Germany, Ravi works at the restaurant, sharing his expertise and contributing to the culinary diversity in Berlin.
10. Language Course Visa
The Language Course Visa is specifically designed for individuals who wish to come to Germany to attend a language course. This visa is suitable for people who want to learn the German language or improve their language skills in an immersive environment. It is often utilized by students, professionals, or individuals who have a keen interest in learning the language.
| Duration of visa | 3 months to 1 year |
| Can study in Germany? | Yes |
| Can work in Germany? | No |
| Can bring dependents to Germany? | No |
| Is a visa extension possible? | Under specific circumstances |
Eligibility
The applicant must have been accepted into a language course in Germany, which should be intensive (at least 18 hours of lessons per week).
Application Documents
Applicants typically need to provide a letter of admission from the language school, proof of financial means to support their stay, health insurance, and sometimes, proof of accommodation in Germany.
Language Skills
Some language schools might require a basic understanding of the German language, while others might accept beginners.
Conversion to Student Visa
In some cases, if an individual wishes to pursue further studies in Germany after the completion of their language course, they may convert their Language Course Visa into a Student Visa while in Germany.
Example Scenario
Consider Ana, a student from Brazil, who wishes to pursue her higher studies in Germany but needs to improve her German language skills to be eligible for her desired course. She enrolls in an intensive 6-month language course in Berlin. Ana applies for the Language Course Visa by providing her admission letter, proof of financial stability, health insurance, and other relevant documents. Once in Germany, she attends the course, immerses herself in the language, and prepares for her subsequent studies.
11. Business visa
The Business Visa in Germany is tailored for individuals who intend to visit Germany for business-related activities, such as attending conferences, meetings, or conducting business with a Germany-based entity. This visa is crucial for professionals, entrepreneurs, and investors who need to engage in short-term business activities in the country.
| Duration of visa | Up to 90 days within a 180-day period |
| Can study in Germany? | No |
| Can work in Germany? | Yes |
| Can bring dependents to Germany? | No |
| Is a visa extension possible? | Under specific circumstances |
Eligibility
The applicant must have a clear business purpose for their visit to Germany, such as attending trade fairs, meetings, or training sessions.
Application Documents
Applicants typically need to provide a letter of invitation from the German business partner, proof of financial means to support their stay, travel health insurance, and flight itinerary. Additional documents like proof of business activities and relationships may also be required.
Travel Insurance
It is mandatory to have travel health insurance for the entire duration of stay under the Business Visa.
Visa Waiver
Nationals from certain countries might not require a Business Visa for short stays and can conduct their activities under a visa waiver program. However, they are still bound by the 90/180 rule.
Example Scenario
Consider Lee, an entrepreneur from South Korea, who plans to visit Germany to explore potential suppliers for his business. He has scheduled meetings with several companies in Frankfurt over a period of two weeks. Lee applies for a Business Visa by providing a detailed itinerary of his business activities, letters from the companies he intends to visit, proof of his financial stability, travel insurance, and other relevant documents. Once in Germany, Lee conducts his meetings and explores business opportunities while adhering to the conditions of his visa.
12. Researcher Visa
The Researcher Visa in Germany is designed for scientists and researchers from non-EU countries who plan to conduct research projects or partake in scientific activities in Germany. This visa facilitates international researchers to collaborate with German institutions and contribute to the scientific advancements in the country.
| Duration of visa | Typically 1 year, can be extended |
| Can study in Germany? | Limited to research-related activities |
| Can work in Germany? | Yes, in research-related activities |
| Can bring dependents to Germany? | Yes |
| Is a visa extension possible? | Yes |
Eligibility
The applicant must have a recognized academic qualification and must have been accepted for a research project by a recognized research institution in Germany.
Application Documents
Applicants need to provide a hosting agreement or contract with a research institution in Germany, proof of financial means to support their stay, health insurance, and relevant academic and professional certificates.
Work Permit
Researchers may work in coordination with their research without a separate work permit. However, if they wish to take up additional employment outside of their research, it may require approval.
Family Reunion
Researchers can apply to bring their family members (spouse and children) to Germany. The family members are usually allowed to work in Germany as well.
Example Scenario
Consider Dr. Maria, a seasoned researcher in biotechnology from Canada. She has been invited by a research institution in Berlin to contribute to a project related to genetic engineering. Dr. Maria applies for a Researcher Visa by providing her hosting agreement from the research institution, proof of her academic qualifications, financial stability, and health insurance. Once in Germany, she engages in research activities, collaborates with German scientists, and contributes to scientific publications.
13. Schengen visa
The Schengen Visa is a short-stay visa that allows the holder to travel across all the countries in the Schengen Area, including Germany, for a short period, usually up to 90 days within a 180-day period. It is primarily intended for tourism, family visits, and business trips.
| Duration of visa | Up to 90 days within a 180-day period |
| Can study in Germany? | No |
| Can work in Germany? | No |
| Can bring dependents to Germany? | No |
| Is a visa extension possible? | Only in exceptional cases |
Purpose
The Schengen Visa is suitable for individuals who wish to visit Germany and other Schengen countries for tourism, business purposes, or family visits but do not intend to stay for longer than 90 days.
Application
Applicants need to provide various documents, including travel insurance, proof of accommodation, flight itinerary, and proof of financial means to support their stay in the Schengen Area.
Visa Types
There are different types of Schengen Visas, such as Tourist Visa, Business Visa, Visitor Visa, etc., each serving a different purpose of travel.
Travel
The visa allows free movement across the Schengen Area, but it’s essential to apply for the visa from the country that is your main destination or the first country you will enter if visiting multiple Schengen countries.
Example Scenario
Imagine Lisa, a citizen of a non-EU country, plans to visit Germany to explore its rich history and culture. She applies for a Schengen Tourist Visa by submitting all the necessary documents, including her travel itinerary, hotel bookings, and travel insurance. Once granted the visa, Lisa can travel not only in Germany but also visit other Schengen countries like France, Italy, and Spain within the 90-day period.
14. Permanent Residence permit (PR)
A Permanent Residence Permit, also known as a Settlement Permit, allows non-EU citizens to reside in Germany without any time restrictions. This permit not only allows you to live in the country but also to work, study, and engage in other socio-economic activities.
| Duration of visa | Indefinite |
| Can study in Germany? | Yes |
| Can work in Germany? | Yes |
| Can bring dependents to Germany? | Yes |
| Is a visa extension possible? | Not applicable as it is indefinite |
Eligibility
To be eligible for a Permanent Residence Permit, individuals typically need to have lived in Germany for a certain number of years (usually 5 years), have secure livelihood, and have adequate knowledge of the German language. Other factors, such as having sufficient living space and being able to support any dependents, are also considered.
Here is my personal story about the Permanent Residence Permit application in Germany.
Integration Aspect
Applicants are usually required to pass an integration test that demonstrates basic knowledge of the legal and social system in Germany.
Employment
The PR allows you to take up employment and generally does not restrict the type or amount of work you can do. However, certain professions might require additional validations or recognition of qualifications.
Mobility
While the PR allows you to stay in Germany indefinitely, it does not grant you unrestricted movement within the EU. For that, you might consider applying for EU Permanent Residency after living for five years with a PR in Germany.
Example Scenario
Consider Maria, who has been living in Germany for five years on an EU Blue Card. She has been working steadily, has not been dependent on social welfare, and has learned German to a B1 level. Maria applies for a Permanent Residence Permit and, after providing proof of her employment, language skills, and pension provisions, she is granted the permit, allowing her to live and work in Germany indefinitely.
15. Opportunity card or Chancenkarte
The Opportunity Card, also known as “Chancenkarte,” is a novel initiative by the German government, designed to attract skilled workers from non-EU countries to mitigate the skilled labor shortage in Germany. This card, which is set to be implemented on March 1, 2024, operates on a point-based system, where applicants need to accumulate a minimum of 6 points across various criteria to be eligible.
| Duration of visa | 12 months |
| Can study in Germany? | No |
| Can work in Germany? | Yes, part-time |
| Can bring dependents to Germany? | Yes, if spouse is a co-applicant |
| Is a visa extension possible? | Yes, under certain conditions |
Eligibility Criteria
The Opportunity Card employs a point-based system, where points are awarded for various criteria like professional qualifications, German and English language skills, age, and more. A minimum of 6 points is required for eligibility.
Validity and Extension
Initially, the Opportunity Card allows a 12-month stay in Germany to search for a job, with a possibility of extension for up to 2 more years under certain circumstances.
Work Allowance
The Opportunity Card permits part-time work (up to 30 hours per week) until the holder secures a full-time job contract.
Language Proficiency
Points are awarded for both German and English language proficiency, with varying points for different levels of proficiency.
Example Scenario
Consider an example where Lisa, a skilled IT professional from India, wants to explore job opportunities in Germany. She can apply for the Opportunity Card, which allows her to stay in Germany and seek employment. Once she accumulates the necessary points based on her qualifications, age, and language skills, she becomes eligible to apply for the card.
Conclusion
The variety of residence permits and visas available in Germany might at first seem like a maze of choices and criteria. Every visa, from the frequently used Employment Visa to the specialist Blue Card, has a specific function and meets the different requirements of immigrants and expatriates.
Germany provides a range of options, each with its own route to temporary or permanent residency, whether you’re a job seeker, an experienced professional, a student, or a researcher.
In order to prepare for a smooth adjustment to life in Germany, it is essential to comprehend the specifics of each permit type, from eligibility requirements to application procedures.
Keeping up with the most recent developments facilitates a smooth and successful application process since regulations and criteria may change.
May the process of obtaining a residence visa in Germany be simple, and may your time there, whether it be temporary or permanent, be rich and satisfying.
FAQ
The Employment Visa and EU Blue Card both cater to professionals seeking to work in Germany but have distinct eligibility criteria and benefits. The Employment Visa is widely accessible, while the EU Blue Card targets highly skilled non-EU professionals in specific sectors and offers mobility within EU countries.
No, the Jobseeker Visa does not allow you to bring dependents to Germany. It is primarily designed for the individual seeking employment in the country. Once employment is secured and the visa is converted (e.g., to an Employment Visa or EU Blue Card), it may be possible to bring dependents.
The Opportunity Card, or “Chancenkarte,” is designed to attract skilled workers in professions where Germany faces a shortage. It offers a pathway for skilled workers to seek employment in Germany without a pre-arranged job, providing them with the opportunity to explore the job market and secure relevant employment.
Yes, extensions are possible for several residence permit types, often contingent on specific criteria such as continued employment or ongoing studies. It’s crucial to apply for an extension before your current permit expires and ensure that you meet all the necessary requirements.
It depends on the type of residence permit you hold. Some permits, like the EU Blue Card, allow for mobility within the EU. However, others might have restrictions or specific guidelines for travel outside of Germany. Always check the specific conditions attached to your residence permit type.
Anoop is a German PR holder and a Software Engineering manager with over 12 years of experience in the IT industry. He worked for several renowned IT companies in India and many startups in Germany. Anoop was featured on YourStory Germany, Zeit Online, Imagine Foundation, Tech Job Fairs Berlin, and many other platforms.
Interested in discussing the above topic in detail? Schedule a 30-minute 1-1 session with Anoop here.