Why Apply for Germany Work Visa?

  • Germany offers nearly 1 million job vacancies.

  • Germany boasts a low unemployment rate.

  • Employees enjoy 25 paid vacation days annually.

  • Fast-track processing for skilled worker visas.

  • Access to high-quality healthcare and social benefits.

  • Opportunities for permanent residency and citizenship.

  • Diverse and inclusive work environment.

  • Strong employee protections and labour rights.

Do you want to know about Germany work visa in detail? Well, you are at the perfect time to satisfy your queries about Germany work visa. So many people are trying to immigrate to Germany every year for work, study and more. Among all these immigrants, people migrating for work constitute the major chunk of these immigrants. In this blog, we will go through the Germany work visa, Germany work visa for Indians, Germany work visa cost, Germany work visa requirements, Germany work visa processing time, and more.

What are the Benefits of Germany Work Visa?

A Germany work visa offers numerous opportunities for skilled professionals from outside the EU. Here are some key benefits to consider:

1. Access to a Strong Economy: Germany has the strongest economy in Europe, providing excellent job opportunities in various fields.

2. Career Advancement: A German work visa can help you advance your career, offering valuable experience in a globalized environment and the chance to work with industry leaders.

3. High Quality of Life: With its excellent healthcare system, infrastructure, and social programs, Germany ensures a high standard of living.

4. Pathway to Permanent Residence: Many work visas can lead to permanent residency after meeting certain requirements, allowing you to establish deeper roots in Germany.

5. Bring Family: Some visas, like the EU Blue Card, allow you to bring your spouse and dependents, making the transition smoother and providing strong support.

6. Work in a Skilled Profession: Visas like the EU Blue Card are designed for skilled workers, offering faster paths to permanent residency and potentially higher salaries due to recognized qualifications.

7. Language Learning and Cultural Immersion: Living and working in Germany provides a unique opportunity to learn the language and immerse yourself in German culture, enhancing both personal and professional development.

Types of Germany Work Visa for Indians

Here are the types of Germany work visa for all the people looking for work in Germany:

  • Opportunity Card

  • Employment Visa

  • EU Blue Card

  • Freelance Visa

1. Opportunity Card

An Opportunity Card is a temporary permit that lets skilled workers from non-EU countries live in Germany. Unlike an employment visa, you don't need a job offer to get it.

What it offers:

  • Legally reside in Germany for up to one year.

  • Search for a qualified job during your stay.

  • Work part-time (up to 20 hours per week) to support yourself.

  • Participate in job trials (up to two weeks per employer) to find a good match.

  • Possibly get your foreign qualifications recognized in Germany.

Eligibility: There are two main ways to qualify:

  • Be recognized as a skilled worker in Germany.

  • Score at least six points on a points-based system (opportunity card calculator) that considers your work experience, education, language skills, and age.

Requirements: You need to show you have enough money to support yourself during the one-year stay. Proof of previous legal stays in Germany may also be required.

2. Employment Visa 

An employment visa in Germany, also known as a residence permit for qualified employment, lets skilled foreign workers live and work in the country. It's perfect for those whose qualifications are either recognized in Germany or equivalent to a German degree.

  • Requirements: Generally, you'll need a job offer for a qualified position in Germany and proof that your qualifications are recognized there (if applicable).

  • Application Process: The process includes securing a job offer, verifying visa requirements, applying at the German embassy or consulate, and attending an interview.

  • Validity: Employment visas are usually valid for up to four years, with the possibility of extension and potential eligibility for permanent residency under certain conditions.

3. EU Blue Card

The EU Blue Card is a residence permit and work visa made for highly-skilled workers from non-EU countries. It enables you to live and work in an EU member state and offers several benefits over a standard employment visa.

  • Validity: The Blue Card is generally granted for the length of your employment contract, plus an extra three months, up to a maximum of four years. It can be extended if necessary.
  • EU Mobility: Once you have held the Blue Card for 18 months, you are eligible to move to another EU member state (excluding Denmark, Ireland, and the UK) to take up qualified employment, provided you follow the required notification procedure.

4. Freelance Visa

The German Freelance Visa, also known as the Freelancer Permit or Self-Employed Visa, is designed to accommodate the growing trend of remote work. This visa option specifically caters to freelancers and self-employed individuals who wish to live and work in Germany.

  • Purpose: The Freelance Visa allows individuals to reside in Germany while working as self-employed professionals. It enables you to offer your services to clients without being tied to a single employer, providing flexibility and the opportunity to work with various clients.
  • Eligibility: Applicants typically need to demonstrate their ability to sustain themselves financially through freelance work. This often involves showing proof of contracts, client relationships, or a business plan.
  • Duration: The visa is usually granted for an initial period, which can be extended based on continued eligibility and compliance with visa conditions.

Germany Work Visa Requirements for Indians in 2024

The eligibility criteria for a Germany work visa vary based on the type of visa you are applying for. Here are the main Germany work visa requirements for different visas:

1. Employment Visa

  • Valid Passport: Must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay.

  • Job Offer: Must have a job offer from a registered German company.

  • Qualifications and Experience: Proof of qualifications and work experience relevant to the job.

  • Financial Means: Proof of sufficient funds to support yourself in Germany.

  • Health Insurance: Required for the duration of your stay.

2. Opportunity Card 

  • Educational Background: University degree or relevant vocational qualification (points awarded based on type).

  • Work Experience: Points awarded based on the duration of work experience in your field.

  • Language Skills: Proof of German language skills (points awarded based on proficiency).

  • Financial Means: Proof of sufficient funds for your stay.

  • Health Insurance: Required for the duration of your stay.

3. EU Blue Card

  • Educational Background: University degree in a sought-after field.

  • Work Experience: At least two years of relevant work experience.

  • Job Offer: Job offer in Germany with a minimum salary threshold (currently €56,400 per year).

  • Language Skills: Proof of German language skills is recommended.

4. Freelance Visa

  • Business Plan: Proof of a viable business plan demonstrating your ability to support yourself financially.

  • Health Insurance: Required for the duration of your stay.

  • Job Seeker Visa (subject to potential revisions)

  • Financial Means: Proof of sufficient funds to support yourself during your job search.

  • Qualifications: Proof of qualifications relevant to your job search goals.

Germany Work Visa Cost for Indians in 2024

Here is a table depicting the Germany work visa cost for various types of people looking to work in Germany:

 

Visa Type

Cost in Euros

Cost in INR

Employment Visa

€75

₹ 6,780.87

Opportunity Card

€75

₹ 6,780.87

EU Blue Card

€140

₹ 12,561.74

Freelance Visa (Self-Employment Visa)

€75

₹ 6,780.87

 

Germany Work Visa Processing Time from India in 2024

To learn about the Germany work visa processing time, here is a table that will give you an idea. 

 

Visa Type

Processing Time

Employment Visa

1-3 months

Opportunity Card

1-3 months

EU Blue Card

2-4 months

Freelance Visa (Self-Employment Visa)

2-4 months

 

Eligibility Criteria for Germany Work Visa for Indian

To qualify for a Germany Work Visa for Indian citizens, you'll need to meet the following criteria. The eligibility criteria for work in Germany visa for Indians are as follows:

  • Passport: Your Indian passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned stay in Germany, with at least two blank pages available for visa stamps.

  • Job Offer (except Freelance Visa): A confirmed job offer from a German employer in a qualified position is typically required. This position usually demands a university degree or relevant vocational training.

  • Educational Background: Your educational qualifications may need to be recognized as equivalent to German standards. This process is sometimes called "recognition of equivalence."

  • Financial Stability: You'll need to show proof of sufficient funds to cover your living expenses during the initial period in Germany. Bank statements or a sponsor's letter are common ways to demonstrate this.

  • Health Coverage: Valid health insurance that provides comprehensive medical care in Germany is mandatory.

Top Ternding Jobs in Germany for Indians 2024

 

Profession

Average Salary (EUR)

Average Salary (INR)

Medical Professionals (Doctors, Specialists)

€77,000

₹ 6,973,400

IT Professionals (Software Developers, Engineers)

€67,000

₹ 6,083,390

Engineers (Various Specialties)

€45,000 - €85,000

₹ 4,086,700 - ₹ 7,686,750

Management Consultants

€87,000

₹ 7,893,900

Lawyers

€69,000

₹ 6,276,300

Data Scientists

€60,000 - €170,000

₹ 5,430,000 - ₹ 15,490,000

Sales Managers/Directors

€45,000 - €90,000

₹ 4,086,700 - ₹ 8,173,400

Marketing Managers

€45,000 - €90,000

₹ 4,086,700 - ₹ 8,173,400

Pilots

€88,000 - €200,000

₹ 7,992,320 - ₹ 18,244,000

Program/Project Managers

€59,000 - €124,800

₹ 5,361,100 - ₹ 11,381,760

 

How to Apply for a Germany Work Visa for Indians?

Securing a Germany Work Visa as an Indian citizen involves several steps. Here's a detailed breakdown of the process:

1. Secure a Job Offer (Except for Freelance Visa)

  • The most critical step is obtaining a job offer from a German employer in a qualified position, typically requiring a university degree or relevant vocational training.

2. Determine Your Visa Type

  • Employment Visa: The most common option for skilled professionals with a job offer.

  • Opportunity Card (Blaue Karte EU): Designed for highly qualified individuals with university degrees and job offers exceeding a specific salary threshold.

  • Freelance Visa (Self-Employment Visa): This is for skilled freelancers intending to offer services to international clients while residing in Germany.

3. Gather Required Documents

  • Valid Indian Passport: Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your stay and have blank pages for visa stamps.

  • Completed Visa Application Form: Ensure it is accurately filled out.

  • Proof of Job Offer and Employment Contract: If applicable.

  • Proof of Educational Qualifications: Including recognition of equivalence in Germany if required.

  • Proof of Sufficient Financial Resources: Bank statements or a sponsor's letter.

  • Valid Health Insurance: Must provide coverage in Germany.

  • Passport-Sized Photos: Adhere to the specified requirements.

  • Declaration Regarding Your Stay: Depending on the visa type.

4. Apply at the German Embassy/Consulate

  • Locate the German Embassy or Consulate: Find the one in your jurisdiction in India.

  • Schedule an Appointment: For visa application submission.

  • Submit Documents and Application Fee: Typically €75 (approximately ₹6,780.87 as of June 2024).

5. Attend an Interview (If Required)

  • Interview: You might be called for an interview based on your situation.

6. Await Visa Decision

  • Processing Times: Typically, 1-3 months for an Employment Visa or Opportunity Card and 2-4 months for a Freelance Visa.

Following these steps can help you navigate the process of securing a Germany Work Visa as an Indian citizen.

Discover All That Terratern Can Do for You

1. Clear and Honest Guidance and Consultation

2. Comprehensive Visa and Immigration Documentation Assistance

3. Tailored Checklists Aligned with Your Program Requirements

4. Job Search Assistance and Support

5. Preparation for Language Proficiency Tests such as IELTS, PTE, and more

6. Continued Support and Relocation Assistance After Arrival

Useful Link