Working in Germany After Graduation - Study in Germany for Free (2023)

International students find Germany to be an attractive study destination, largely due to the quality of education it provides and also due to its wide range of opportunities to advance academically, create a financially stable life, and an excellent career. To date, the number of international students in Germany has reached over 416,437, making this country one of the most favourable countries to pursue a degree.

The opportunity to work in Germany during and after studies is also what brings flocks of international students into the country. While those who cannot cover the full cost of living in Germany on their own have the opportunity to work part-time during studies, those who grow a liking towards Germany can stay here after graduation and try to find employment. The opportunities are great, all it takes is hard work!

Here’s all you need to know about working in Germany after graduation as an international student:

Working in Germany After Graduation for EU Students

Graduates who come from an EU/EEA member country can seek employment in Germany as soon as they graduate without the need to obtain a work permit. If you are from the EU/EEA, you will be subject to the same rules and regulations as German graduates, especially in terms of employment, working conditions, and taxes. You do not need to have a work permit to work in Germany when you graduate, just like you did not need to have a student visa to study in the country like non-EU/EEA students.

Working in Germany After Graduation for Non-EU Students

Graduates who come from non-EU/EEA countries of origin can work in Germany after they finish their studies by extending their residence permit for up to 18 months after graduation. These 18 months begin as soon as you finish your final exams, so it would be best if you start looking for employment while you are still at university, or during your final semester. Keep in mind that during these 18 months, you can work whatever job you can in order to support yourself until you find full-time employment, and it does not necessarily have to be related to your field of study.

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You should apply for the residence permit extension by submitting the following documents:

  • Personal ID and Passport.
  • Proof of Graduation from a German University.
  • Proof of Financial Resources.
  • Proof of Health Insurance.

After you obtain the extended residence permit, you can use the 18 months to find employment in Germany you think is related to your field of study. During the time you spend seeking employment, you can take up any work you think is necessary in order to support yourself financially.

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What Should I Do After I Find Employment?

After you find a job you like, with a minimum of a one-year contract, you should apply for an EU Blue Card, which is the main residence permit for university graduates from non-EU countries of origin who have graduated from German universities and would like to stay and work in Germany. In order to be eligible for the Blue Card, according to VisaGuide.World, the applicant must meet certain prerequisites, such as having a university/college degree and an employment contract with a company in Germany that pays at least €56,400 per year as of January 1, 2022. In other occupations, where there is a shortage of skilled workers, the salary threshold is lower, approximately €43,992 per year.

The Eu Blue Card is a residence permit that is usually issued for a period of four years. However, if the duration of the contract is shorter, German authorities will issue the EU Blue Card for that period of time, with an additional three months. In case the requirements are met, the card can be extended. After 33 months of residence in Germany, those who have an EU Blue Card can apply for a settlement permit, which allows them to permanently settle in Germany.

Settlement in Germany After Graduation

A settlement permit is a permanent residence permit for internationals who have lived in Germany for a number of years, and it authorizes them to live, work, and study, as well as bring family members to Germany. Holders of an EU Blue Card will receive their settlement permit after 33 months in Germany if they have met all the requirements (employed, paid contributions, and have basic German language skills). EU Blue Cardholders may also qualify for the permit in a matter of 21 months if they have a level B1 of German language proficiency.

After spending 8 years in Germany on a settlement permit, you can require naturalization (meaning you can become a German citizen).

Can I Work in Germany After I Return to My Home Country?

If you have finished your higher education studies in Germany as an international student and after graduation, you have returned to your home country, you can still find employment in Germany. What you need in this case is a job seeker visa that allows you to enter Germany for a period of six months and find employment. However, in comparison to an extended residence permit, the job seeker visa does not make you eligible to work while you are looking for full-time employment, meaning you will have to provide proof that you have the necessary financial means to support yourself.

After you find employment with a minimum one-year contract, you can apply for an EU Blue Card.

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Employment Opportunities for International Graduates in Germany

Due to Germany’s leading position in the top largest world economies, job opportunities are plentiful for university graduates, so working in Germany after graduation should not be an issue. Depending on your field of study, you can work in numerous industries, since Germany is home to thousands of companies across all industries. Job prospects are good and employers are constantly looking for skilled individuals. It would be best if you start looking for employment while you are still at university, during the last semester, to get an idea of where to begin, what to look for and expect, and what your options are.

You will be able to find employment opportunities on online job advertising websites, university notice boards, or even on company websites and social media. If you already have created preferences, meaning there is a company you would like to work with, you can email the company and ask whether there are any open job positions available or whether they are planning to hire in the future. The good thing about an extended residence permit after studies is that you can work any type of job while seeking contractual employment related to your field of study.

Advice: Keep in mind that graduates who have German language skills will likely be given priority over those who do not. So during your time at university, even if you are studying in English, pay attention to your German language skills. Knowing German will come in handy not only when it comes to finding employment, but also obtaining a settlement permit more quickly, as well as socializing, networking, and finding your way around Germany without any barriers.

More interesting reads you might find helpful below:

  • Working in Germany After Doctoral Studies
  • Bringing Family to Germany on a Student Visa
  • German Student Visa Interview Questions and Tips
  • Top Cities in Germany for Work

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FAQs

Can I work in Germany after graduation? ›

Yes. After you have completed your studies you can stay in Germany while you are looking for a job. Students from non-EU and non-EEA countries who hold a residence permit can apply to have it extended for another 18 months while they search for a job in Germany.

How can I study for free in Germany after graduation? ›

The majority of state-funded universities offer free of charge higher education programs. Some highly specialized courses, however, might attract tuition fees. Candidates are only required to pay an administration fee at the start of each year when admitted to a Public University in Germany.

Does Germany give work permit after study? ›

To find work related to their education, students can apply for an extended 18-month Job Seeking Visa, popularly known as a post-study work visa. This extra 18-month period is known as a post-study work permit in Germany.

Is post graduation free in Germany for international students? ›

Germany is renowned for its generous approach to higher education. Almost all public universities provide free education to students, regardless of nationality. This means you can study a German Masters for free, whether you are a German, EU or non-EU student.

What is the minimum salary to get work permit in Germany? ›

If you apply for a Blue Card, your salary must be at least 56,400€ per year (before taxes). If there is a shortage of skilled workers in your field, your salary must be at least 43,992€ per year. This list shows which fields have a shortage of skilled workers. If you can, find a job before you come to Germany.

What is the highest paying part time job in Germany? ›

Highest paying part-time jobs in Germany
  • Research scholars.
  • Research assistants/academic assistants.
  • Support staff.
  • Teaching English as an English tutor.
  • Industrial production assistants.

Who is eligible for free education in Germany? ›

In 2014 all 16 German states abolished tuition fees for undergraduate students at all public German universities. This means that currently, both domestic and international undergraduates at public universities in Germany can study for free, with just a small fee to cover administration and other costs per semester.

Which university in Germany is free? ›

It is one of the popular public universities in Germany for international students. Known as the Free University of Berlin, this public university was founded in 1948. Students get the best education with proper hand on practice at an affordable cost. FUB is ranked among the top universities in the world.

Who qualifies for free education in Germany? ›

Education Criteria– Candidates must have passed class 12th examination. They will not be considered otherwise. Minimum marks required: Candidates must secure a minimum 85% or 9 CGPA in class 12th. Age Limit: There is no age limit.

How much is salary in Germany? ›

According to Statista, in 2021, the average gross annual salary in Germany was 47.700 euros a year, or 3.975 euros a month. The numbers above are for all of Germany. However, the average gross salary will depend greatly on your location, professional experience, education, size of the company, and gender.

How much student can earn in Germany? ›

You may earn up to 450 euros per month. With a minimum wage of 9.50 euros per hour (as of Jan. 2021), you have to work a maximum of around eleven hours per week or around 47 hours per month for this amount. As a full-time student, you do not have to pay taxes or social security contributions on this amount.

Which course is best for job in Germany? ›

Courses in Demand in Germany
  • Power Engineering. ...
  • Management and Technology (TUM-BWL) ...
  • Automotive Production Engineering (M. ...
  • Renewable Energy Systems. ...
  • M. ...
  • M. ...
  • Automotive Engineering M.Sc. ...
  • Civil Engineering M.Sc.

How much money do I need to study in Germany? ›

However, you would be required to pay the semester contribution fee that is charged for the student union, public transport, and administrative costs. But all these are kept minimum, approx. 300 Euros per semester. If you are getting enrolled in a private university, then it will cost you around 30,000 Euros per year.

How can I get free Masters in Germany? ›

Universities that offer tuition-free Masters in Germany
  1. RWTH Aachen University – 10% acceptance rate.
  2. University of Mannheim.
  3. University of Cologne.
  4. University of Stuttgart – 70% acceptance rate.
  5. University of Hamburg.
Jan 12, 2022

Does a baby born in Germany get citizenship? ›

Yes. A child born in Germany (on or after 1 January 2000) can acquire German nationality, even if neither of the parents is German. The only precondition is that one of the parents has been legally and habitually resident in Germany for eight years and has a permanent right of residence.

What is the age limit to work in Germany? ›

Officially there is no age limit for Job Seeker Visa Application. You can apply at any age if you feel that you still have a chance to get a job in Germany. However, you shouldn't be older than 67; as it is the retirement age, no employer will hire someone at that period of life.

What are the 4 types of visa? ›

Which type of visa do you need? Probably one of the four main types: tourist, immigration, student, or work.

How much bank balance is required for Germany work visa? ›

German embassies and consulates generally require that you provide a bank statement of an escrow/blocked account (Sperrkonto) with a balance of at least €720 for each month of the visa. For a six-month Job Seeker Visa, this is €4,320 (although this may vary depending on where you apply).

Can I have two jobs in Germany? ›

Secondary employment is generally permitted in Germany and does not have to be approved by the 'main' employer. Secondary employment can take the following forms: another salaried employment relationship with another employer; or. a freelance employment relationship (self-employed secondary employment).

Which city in Germany has more job opportunities? ›

Berlin - one of the economic hubs of the world

The capital city of Germany offers some of the best employment opportunities in Berlin. It is one of the economic hubs of the world and attracts a growing number of expats each year that come in search of better career options.

Which field is in demand in Germany? ›

Some engineering fields offer good career prospects, such as mechanical engineering, structural engineering, computer science engineering, electrical engineering, automotive engineering, and telecommunications.

Can I get a job in Germany after bachelors? ›

Germany is a great place to work, and you will receive an 18-month visa to find full-time employment after your studies.

Is it easy to get a job in Germany as a student? ›

If you come from an EU/ EEA country, you do not need a work permit to get a job in Germany. And there's no limitation to how much you can work. However, if you work more than 20 hours/week then you are required to pay taxes to the German social security system.

Which course is best for job in Germany? ›

Courses in Demand in Germany
  • Power Engineering. ...
  • Management and Technology (TUM-BWL) ...
  • Automotive Production Engineering (M. ...
  • Renewable Energy Systems. ...
  • M. ...
  • M. ...
  • Automotive Engineering M.Sc. ...
  • Civil Engineering M.Sc.

Is it difficult to get PR in Germany? ›

In order to apply for a PR in Germany, you must meet certain legislative requirements, meet the eligibility conditions, and submit the required documents. It will be simple to obtain permanent residency if you grasp the regulations and requirements and follow the application process meticulously.

Which job is easy in Germany? ›

You can receive your license from the state to practice in Germany even if you have a foreign degree.
...
Top job openings in Germany:
  • Software developers, architects, programmers.
  • Electronics engineers.
  • IT consultants, IT analysts.
  • Nurses.
  • Business managers.
  • Account managers.
  • Production assistants.
  • Sales managers, representatives.
Oct 19, 2019

Which job has highest salary in Germany? ›

Top 10 Highest Paid Professions in Germany 2022 - 23
  • Researchers in Biotechnology and Neuroscience. ...
  • Surgeons and doctors. ...
  • Judges. ...
  • Bank managers. ...
  • Director of Finance. ...
  • Tourism and hospitality professionals. ...
  • Engineering professions. ...
  • Sales managers.
Aug 3, 2022

How much is salary in Germany? ›

According to Statista, in 2021, the average gross annual salary in Germany was 47.700 euros a year, or 3.975 euros a month. The numbers above are for all of Germany. However, the average gross salary will depend greatly on your location, professional experience, education, size of the company, and gender.

How much do Germany pay per hour? ›

Minimum wage in Germany
DateMinimum wage (gross)
January 1 - June 30, 20219,50 euros per hour
July 1 - December 31, 20219,60 euros per hour
January 1 - June 30, 20229,82 euros per hour
July 1, 2022 onwards10,45 euros per hour

How much money a student can earn in Germany? ›

You may earn up to 450 euros per month. With a minimum wage of 9.50 euros per hour (as of Jan. 2021), you have to work a maximum of around eleven hours per week or around 47 hours per month for this amount. As a full-time student, you do not have to pay taxes or social security contributions on this amount.

How many hours is a full-time job in Germany? ›

An average working week in Germany as a full-time employee is between 36 and 40 hours, with daily working weeks in Germany between seven and eight hours five days a week. Speaking for students, this means that you are allowed to work 2.5 hours per week in addition to your studies.

How much salary is good in Germany? ›

What is a good average salary in Germany in 2022? A good annual average salary in Germany is between €64,000 to €81,000. This gross salary (salary before taxes or social contributions) depends on your profession, industry, and education.

Which degrees are high demand in Germany? ›

Highest Paid Degrees in Germany
  • Medicine and Dentistry. Doctors and dentists are valuable professionals throughout the entire world. ...
  • Law. Lawyers are also highly important. ...
  • Industrial Engineering. ...
  • Engineering. ...
  • Mathematics and Computer Science. ...
  • Natural Sciences. ...
  • Business and Economics. ...
  • Architecture.

Which course is high demand in Germany? ›

Which course is in demand in Germany? Engineering is by far the most popular and one of the best degrees to study in Germany, and it usually leads to an MS degree. Mechanical engineering, automotive engineering, and electrical engineering are among the engineering disciplines chosen by students.

Is Germany better than Canada? ›

Canada vs Germany for Indian Students

Canada offers a quality system of healthcare, easier permanent residency applications and a great public health system. On the other hand, Germany offers superior education at a low cost, good healthcare, great weather and a low cost of living.

How can I get German citizenship in 3 years? ›

Spouses or registered same-sex partners of German citizens are eligible for naturalization after three years of legal residence in Germany. They must have been married or in a registered partnership for at least two years at the time of application. The general requirements for naturalization also apply.

Which country is easiest to get PR? ›

Easiest Countries to Get a Permanent Residency
  • Easiest Countries to Immigrate To.
  • New Zealand.
  • Australia.
  • Spain.
  • Paraguay.
  • Germany.
  • Montenegro.
  • Czech Republic.

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