Germany permits international students to work for up to 9 months prior to starting their course and for 2 years following the completion of their degree.

Key Highlights

• Student visa holders in Germany are now permitted to engage in part-time employment nine months after commencing their academic courses.
• German university graduates become eligible for permanent residency after acquiring two years of work experience.
• Germany has introduced new visa regulations allowing international students to work during their studies.

- As of December 2023, approximately 770,000 job vacancies are available in Germany.

New Skilled Worker Law

Germany implemented a new skilled worker law effective from March 2023, enabling foreign students to pursue employment during their studies in the country. Under these regulations, international students can arrive in Germany up to nine months before the start of their academic programs and work up to 20 hours per week. This period allows them to enroll in language courses, be it in English, German, or other languages of their choice. Additionally, the law permits students to work between 120 to 140 full days per year.

Previously, students could arrive in Germany nine months before their studies commenced, but they were not permitted to work during this period.

Opportunities for Apprenticeship Applicants

Prospective apprentices in Germany are now allowed to work while actively seeking apprenticeships. Eligible applicants, who must possess a B1-level proficiency in German and be under 35 years of age, can work up to 20 hours per week during the nine-month period before and after commencing their training.

Permanent Residency for German Graduates

Foreign students who have completed their studies at a German university can remain in the country for up to 18 months post-graduation to search for employment. After acquiring two years of work experience in Germany, they become eligible to apply for permanent residency. Students intending to change professions after graduation must transition their visa to either an EU Blue Card or a German Skilled Worker Visa.

Job Vacancies in Germany

As of December 2023, Germany has over 770,000 open positions across various industries. The top 20 sought-after job positions include roles in horticulture, metalworking, woodwork, and other technical fields. Additionally, professions such as health workers, sales managers, pilots, and lawyers rank among the highest-paying jobs in the country.