Germany is a popular destination for many people seeking employment opportunities, both within the European Union and beyond. However, for non-EU citizens, navigating the rules and bureaucracy can be a daunting task. Today we will briefly mention all the necessary elements you need to know if you are considering working in Germany as a non-EU citizen.
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Visa requirements to work in Germany
The first step in working in Germany as a non-EU national is to obtain a visa. There are several different types of visa available, depending on the nature of your employment.
The most common type of visa for non-EU citizens is the General Employment Visa, which is issued to those who have secured a job offer in Germany. To be eligible for this visa, you must have a degree or qualification that is recognised in Germany and your job must pay at least €55,200 per year. You will also need to prove that you have relevant health insurance, accommodation, and the financial means to support yourself while in Germany.
Be ready for bureaucracy
Once you have received your visa, you will need to register with the authorities when you arrive in Germany. This includes registering with the local registration office (Bürgeramt) to obtain your registration certificate (Meldebestätigung) and registering with the local tax office (Finanzamt) to obtain your tax identification number (Steueridentifikationsnummer). You will also need to register for social security, which includes health, unemployment, and pension insurance.
Employment requirements to work in Germany as a non-EU national
It is important to note that working in Germany as a non-EU citizen is subject to certain restrictions. For example, your employer must prove that they have made every effort to find a suitable candidate within the EU before offering you the job. In addition, your employment contract must meet specific minimum requirements, including mentioned above a minimum salary of €55,200 per year, and must be approved by the Federal Employment Agency.
Language requirements
One of the biggest challenges for non-EU nationals working in Germany is the language barrier. While English is widely spoken in the workplace, knowledge of German is essential for many jobs, particularly in the public sector. Non-EU nationals must often provide proof of German language skills (typically B2) as part of their visa application.
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