If you are a skilled worker and have always been keen to work in Europe, then Germany may be a good option right now. This is because the country is facing a massive shortage of skilled workers – specifically in the sciences – and is actively looking for ways to attract foreign workers.

Why Germany is an attractive option for skilled workers

Germany is a stable country which offers a high quality of life, has a rich cultural history and is an extremely safe place to live. In addition to excellent job opportunities, Germany has an efficient public transport system, good healthcare and a renowned education system making it a good choice if you want to expand your professional growth.

It's also a global leader in manufacturing and technology-driven innovations. The country’s emphasis on continuous learning and professional development means that you can be assured of staying competitive in your field.

If you are in the STEM field, you are likely to find plenty of opportunities to engage in cutting-edge research and collaborate with leading experts in their fields. Engineering, information technology, biotechnology and life sciences, data science and analytics, and robotics and automation are among the most in-demand sectors.

Healthy work-life balance 

Germany's commitment to work-life balance is appealing to job seekers:

  • Salaries are competitive and the country’s strong labour laws ensure fair treatment and workplace safety for employees. 
  • There are plenty of opportunities for flexible working hours, generous parental leave policies and ample vacation days. 
  • The emphasis on work-life balance contributes to higher job satisfaction and overall well-being among employees.

Living in Germany

  • The cost of living in Germany is lower than in many other European countries as well as the United States.
  • The country has extraordinary natural diversity with an array of nature reserves, forests and rivers.
  • Germany is also a multicultural society and has progressive policies regarding gender equality, LGBT rights and immigration.

Visa options for skilled workers in Germany

The EU Blue Card

This is a residence and work visa designed for highly skilled professionals from non-EU countries, looking to work in participating countries.

EU Blue Card requirements

To qualify for an EU Blue Card, you must:

  • Have a recognised university degree or a degree comparable to a German one.
  • Secure a job offer in Germany with a gross annual salary of at least €45,300 (or €41,041.80 for shortage occupations such as scientists, mathematicians, engineers, doctors, and IT specialists).
  • Obtain a valid work contract or a binding job offer.

German Work visa for Qualified Professionals

This visa allows non-EU Citizens to live and work in Germany for the duration of their employment contract.

German Work visa requirements

To qualify for the German Work visa for Qualified Professionals, you must:

  • Have a recognised vocational qualification or one comparable to a German qualification.
  • Secure a job offer in your field of qualification in Germany.
  • If you’re 45 years or older you must have a minimum gross annual salary of €49, 830.
  • Obtain a valid work contract.
  • May need to demonstrate adequate German language skills, typically B1 level or higher.

If you’d like assistance applying for a visa to work in Germany, we can make the whole process easier. Get in touch via email on eunationality@sableinternational.com or call +27 (0) 21 657 2180 to discuss your options in more detail.

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