In order to work in Germany prospective migrants need only obtain a German residence permit, which gives them the right to work and live in the country, rather than separate residence and work permits. Citizens of the US, Australia, Canada, Israel, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland and some other cuntries may apply for their residence and work permit while remaining in Germany as visitors. Citizens of these countries, however, are not allowed to work in Germany until after their work and residence permit application is approved.
Citizens of most other countries are required to apply for and obtain a residence and work permit prior to entering Germany at their German embassy or consulate.
The application procedure is as follows:
Stage 1:The residence permit application (which also provides access to the labour market) for the candidate is received by the German embassy in the country where the candidate lives.
Stage 2: The Embassy passes the application to the immigration office (the Auslaenderbehoerde) in the place where the job is to take place for initial approval. The immigration office, in cooperation with the local employment office (the Arbeitsamt) that issues the permission, makes its decision.
Stage 3: If the candidate's application has been approved, the Embassy provides an entry visa to the candidate.
Stage 4: Upon arriving in Germany, the foreign national and any accompanying family members must apply for their work and residence permits at the local foreigners authority.
Further Information, help, and advice
Workpermit.com has over twenty years of experience helping people immigrate to countries all over the World. Whether you wish to visit, work, study, or hire workers in Germany our specialist team of immigration experts can help you with one to one advice, information, and representation when applying for your German visa or work permit.
For more information and advice on German immigration law and visa applications please contact us on 0344 991 9222 or at london@workpermit.com
