Important Information

If you can travel to Germany without an entry visa, and/or have only a limited residence permit, you must reapply for and receive these in Germany within the period of stay permitted, from the local authority for foreigners covering your German residence

Do I Need a Visa?

As a rule, to enter the Fedeal Republic of Germany you need in principle a visa.

Generally excepted are citizens of the EU countries, as well as other countries for which the European Community has abolished the visa requirement for short stays of up to 90 days within a period of 180 days.

You can check here whether you need a visa, on the official link of the Foreign Office of the Federal Republic of Germany:

https://www.auswaertiges-amt.de/de/service/visa-und-aufenthalt/staatenliste-zur-visumpflicht/207820/

Where Do I Apply for the Visa?

Responsible for the granting of visas are the Embassies and Consulates General (diplomatic missions) of the Federal Republic of Germany.

Locally responsible for the processing of visa applicatons is the diplomatic mission within whose area of jurisdiction you have your usual place of stay or residence.

Which Visa Do I Need?

Since, as a rule, the taking up of employment lasts longer than three months, you need a national visa!

What Do I Need for the Visa?

For your application for a visa, you should have ready the following:

• A copy of your valid passport. (The passport should not be older than 10 years, and must have a remaining validity of at least 1 year)
• 3 passport photos with specified biometrics
• Your motivation in writing (why you want to work in Germany)
• Contract of employment at a German firm (if necessary, the approval of the job center,this will be provided by your employer)
• Curriculum vitae and proof of education (your qualifications)
• Proof of sufficient financial means (as a rule the contract of employment stating your salary will suffice)
• Travel health insurance covering the period from your arrival to the official start of employment (the start of employment is also the commencement of statutory health insurance) -> Information the health insurance for employees
• Your Visa Application, 2 Sets

For long-term stays you apply, In most cases, for a National Visa

For short-term stays up to a maximum of 90 days you can apply for a Schengen Visa

Important: Please bear in mind that if you choose to get a Schengen Visa with a plan to stay longer in Germany, you have to get the extension of your visa before expiration of the 90-day period