Work permits for foreign skilled workers: What employers in Germany need to know

The shortage of skilled workers is noticeable in many sectors, which is why German companies are increasingly relying on qualified workers from abroad. However, certain legal requirements must be met before a non-European employee is allowed to work in Germany. Here, employers can find out what steps are necessary to obtain a work permit for foreign skilled workers.

1. who needs a work permit?

Not every foreign employee needs a work permit. The regulations depend on the country of origin:

• EU/EEA/Switzerland: Employees from these countries do not require a work permit. They can work in Germany without any restrictions.
• Third countries (non-EU countries): Employees from countries outside the EU generally require a residence permit with a work permit.

Practical example:
A German IT company would like to hire a software developer from India. As India is not an EU member state, the employee requires a visa for gainful employment and an EU Blue Card or another residence permit with a work permit.

2. requirements for the issue of a work permit

For a foreign skilled worker to be able to work in Germany, the following conditions must be met:

• Qualification: The employee must have recognized vocational training or a degree.
• employment contract: A concrete job offer from a German company is required.
• Salary & working conditions: The salary must correspond to the collectively agreed or customary local standards.
• Examination by the Federal Employment Agency (BA): In some cases, the BA checks whether there are preferential applicants from Germany or the EU for the position (priority check).

Practical example:
A mechanical engineering company in Germany would like to hire an engineer from Brazil. Before the engineer receives a work permit, his university degree must be recognized in Germany and the salary must be in line with the industry standard.

3. applying for a work permit: step-by-step guide for employers

1. Prepare an employment contract: The employer draws up an employment contract with the usual conditions.
2. Recognition of qualifications: If necessary, the employee must have their qualification recognized in Germany (e.g. via the Central Office for Foreign Education).
3. Visa application in the country of origin: The employee applies for the visa at the German embassy or consulate.
4. Examination by authorities: The Foreigners' Registration Office and, if applicable, the Federal Employment Agency will examine the application.
5. Residence permit with work permit: After a positive examination, the employee receives a residence permit with a work permit and can enter Germany.
6. Registration & start of work: After entering the country, the employee registers at the residents' registration office, applies for a tax ID and starts work.

Tip:
There are simplified procedures for certain occupational groups, such as the EU Blue Card for highly qualified specialists or the Accelerated specialist procedureswhich employers can use via the Foreigners' Registration Office.

4. special regulations for certain occupational groups

• IT specialists: Under certain conditions, software developers and IT specialists can obtain a work permit without a formal qualification if they can prove that they have sufficient professional experience.
• Nursing staff: Nursing staff from third countries must have their qualifications recognized in Germany and, if necessary, undergo an adaptation qualification.
• Craft trades: Many skilled trades require formal recognition of foreign training before a work permit is issued.

Practical example:
A German construction company wants to hire a carpenter from Turkey. As the carpentry qualification is not automatically recognized in Germany, he must first go through a recognition procedure. Only then can a work permit be issued.

5 Advantages for employers: Why is it worth employing foreign skilled workers?

Solution to the shortage of skilled workers: Qualified workers from abroad can bridge bottlenecks in certain sectors.
International perspectives: Employees from different countries bring new ideas and innovative strength to the company.
Quick access through simplified procedures: Work permits are made easier, especially for professions that are in high demand.