If you want to enter Germany, you often need a visa. There are nationals who do not need a visa, for example from
Other exceptions: Who does not need a visa?
There are different types of visas. These differ according to purpose and duration.
You must apply for a visa at the German embassy in your country of residence before travelling to Germany. Certain documents and proof are required for this.
You have already found a job in Germany and have a concrete job offer? In this case, you will need a visa to take up employment.
Tipp:Tip: Your employer in Germany can speed up the visa process. More information: How can my employer in Germany help?
If you have not yet found a job in Germany, the following applies: You can enter Germany with an "opportunity card" for a maximum of 2
You can find the requirements on the website Make it in Germany: Job search opportunity card.
The Federal Employment Agency supports you with the entry process. As a government agency, our support is free of charge.
We support you by
The German embassy in your country of residence offers you a checklist on its website. You can use this list to compile the documents you need for your visa application.
Wichtig:Important: Allow enough time for this. You will need to have certain documents officially authenticated and/or translated. This is often associated with costs.
You apply for the visa at the German diplomatic representation abroad for your place of residence. You can find these on the following website:
Federal Foreign Office: German missions abroad
You can also apply for a visa online:
After you have submitted your visa application, you must wait for the embassy's decision.
Once you have received your visa, you can enter Germany.
After entering the country, you must report to the aliens registration office as soon as possible.
There, your visa will be converted into a residence permit. You can find the aliens registration office for your place of residence on the following website:
Federal Office for Migration and Refugees: Search for authorities
Citizens of the European Union (EU), Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway (European Economic Area – EEA), and Switzerland, enjoy freedom of movement within the EU. They have unrestricted access to the German labour market. They do not require a residence or work permit.
For more information and special regulations, visit the website Make it in Germany: Do I need a visa?
It may take some time for the embassy in your country of residence to process your application. Information on deadlines can be found on the websites of the embassies.
Wichtig:Important: The Federal Employment Agency has no information on how long you will have to wait for your visa.
Wichtig:Important: Your family may not be allowed to come to Germany at the same time as you. Find out in advance which regulations apply.
You can find more information on these websites:
In certain cases, your employer can speed up the visa process. To do so, your employer must contact the Federal Employment Agency. If you already have a job commitment, you can refer your employer to the following website: Vorabzustimmung (only in German). This service is free of charge for you and your employer.
The fast-track procedure for skilled workers, on the other hand, is a fee-based option. You and your employer can find more information and the relevant offices on the following website: Make it in Germany: The fast-track procedure for skilled workers.
If you have not yet learnt a profession, you have the opportunity to undergo vocational training in Germany to learn a profession. Special regulations apply to vocational training. There is also a separate visa.
For more information, visit the website Undergoing vocational training in Germany.
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