Entry and employment of privileged citizens
Find out which third-country nationals have special access to the German labour market. For some of them, a visa-free entry may also be possible.
Do I need a visa to work in Germany? What are the visa requirements for studying or taking up vocational training in Germany? These are just some of the questions asked by people considering moving to Germany for work and those planning their next career move. In short, whether and what type of visa you need to apply for depends on your country of origin, your professional qualifications and the purpose behind your plans to come to Germany.
Citizens of EU/EEA countries and Switzerland
As a citizen of an EU country, you are entitled to freedom of movement and have unrestricted access to the German labour market. You do not need a visa or residence permit to enter Germany and take up employment. The same applies if you come from Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway or Switzerland (EFTA countries).
Third-country nationals (non-EU/non-EEA countries)
Entry and residence for the purpose of gainful employment: Citizens of Australia, Israel, Japan, Canada, the Republic of Korea, New Zealand, the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland and the USA can enter Germany without a visa for the purpose of gainful employment or company-based vocational training. In this case, the respective residence permit must be applied for in Germany before taking up employment. Only if you are a citizen of one these countries you may apply directly at the foreigners authority at your place of residence in Germany. However, if you intend to take up employment shortly after arriving in Germany, it is advisable to apply for the respective visa before entering the country.
All other third-country nationals who would like to come to Germany for the purpose of gainful employment must submit a visa application to the responsible German foreigners authority before their arrival.
Entry and residence for the purpose of studying: If you are coming to Germany to study, you can enter the country without a visa if you are a citizen of the following countries: Andorra, Australia, Brazil, El Salvador, Canada, Honduras, Monaco, New Zealand, Republic of Korea, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland and the USA. The same applies if you wish to complete a school-based vocational training in Germany. After entering the country, you must apply for the respective residence permit at the responsible foreigners authority within 90 days.
You can get further information on visa requirements and exemptions on the website of the Federal Foreign Office.
