{"id":112606,"date":"2025-09-11T12:29:58","date_gmt":"2025-09-11T12:29:58","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/my.legal500.com\/guides\/?post_type=comparative_guide&#038;p=112606"},"modified":"2025-09-11T12:29:58","modified_gmt":"2025-09-11T12:29:58","slug":"germany-corporate-immigration","status":"publish","type":"comparative_guide","link":"https:\/\/my.legal500.com\/guides\/chapter\/germany-corporate-immigration\/","title":{"rendered":"Germany: Corporate Immigration"},"content":{"rendered":"","protected":false},"template":"","class_list":["post-112606","comparative_guide","type-comparative_guide","status-publish","hentry","guides-corporate-immigration","jurisdictions-germany"],"acf":[],"appp":{"post_list":{"below_title":"<div class=\"guide-author-details\"><span class=\"guide-author\">Deloitte Legal Rechtsanwaltsgesellschaft mbH<\/span><span class=\"guide-author-logo\"><img src=\"https:\/\/my.legal500.com\/guides\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/1\/2021\/08\/Deloitte-Legal-Logo.jpg\"\/><\/span><\/div>"},"post_detail":{"above_title":"<div class=\"guide-author-details\"><span class=\"guide-author\">Deloitte Legal Rechtsanwaltsgesellschaft mbH<\/span><span class=\"guide-author-logo\"><img src=\"https:\/\/my.legal500.com\/guides\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/1\/2021\/08\/Deloitte-Legal-Logo.jpg\"\/><\/span><\/div>","below_title":"<span class=\"guide-intro\">This country specific Q&amp;A provides an overview of Corporate Immigration laws and regulations applicable in Germany<\/span><div class=\"guide-content\"><div class=\"filter\">\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t<input type=\"text\" placeholder=\"Search questions and answers...\" class=\"filter-container__search-field\">\r\n\t\t\t<\/div>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t<ol class=\"custom-counter\">\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">What are the relevant government entities relating to immigration in your jurisdiction?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><ul style=\"padding-left: 0\">\n<li>German embassies and missions abroad<\/li>\n<li>Federal Employment Agency (Bundesagentur f\u00fcr Arbeit)<\/li>\n<li>Immigration offices<\/li>\n<li>Local town hall<\/li>\n<li>Federal Office for Migration and Refugees (BAMF)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>The assignee applies for a visa at the German embassy or mission abroad. Depending on the visa type, \u00a0prior approval from the Federal Employment Agency may be required. After entry, the applicant registers with the local town hall and applies for their residence permit at the competent immigration office. The Federal Office for Migration and Refugees is rarely required for labour migration, but can be involved in the context of the mobile ICT Card.<\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">What are the options available for sponsor-based employment in your jurisdiction and timelines involved in securing a work permit?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>Germany has a uniform permit system with residence permits entitling to employment and residence permits not (fully) entitling to employment. The work permit is not a sponsor-based regime in the traditional sense, as it may be known from other jurisdictions (e.g. the UK).<\/p>\n<p>There are several options of employment-based options, for example, the Blue Card EU, specialist permit, permit for skilled worker with a university degree, permit for skilled worker with vocational training, ICT card, Mobile ICT card, residence permit for researcher, residence permit for privileged nationals, etc. The processing of residence permits for employment purposes \u00a0usually takes between 8 to 12 weeks from the time of application and can vary depending on the immigration office and individual case.<\/p>\n<p>We generally recommend filing an application for a national D visa for privileged nationals who could also directly apply in-country for residence permits as well, as there is a large backlog of appointments at the various local immigration offices. This can lead to considerable delays in processing which could significantly impact the privileged national\u2019s start date of employment. With a national D visa, the employee can start working right away bridging the gap until their residence permit appointment at the local immigration office.<\/p>\n<p>In addition, some German missions abroad currently face long waiting time of several months for a visa appointment or a shortage of available appointments, which can also lead to delays and should be taken into consideration when planning a start date of employment in Germany.<\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">What are the primary options available for unsponsored work and investment in your jurisdiction?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>A primary option for unsponsored work and investment is holding a capital share of at least 50 %, which gives the manager a significant influence on the company. In the case of a lower participation, it is necessary to consider whether the free arrangement of the activity regarding time, duration, scope and place, a performance-related salary, the assumption of a guarantee for the company&#8217;s liabilities as well as the granting of loans to the company may, taken as a whole, lead to self-employment.<\/p>\n<p>A third-country national may be granted a residence permit for the purpose of self-employment if<\/p>\n<ol style=\"padding-left: 0\" type=\"a\">\n<li>There is an economic interest or a regional demand for the intended business,<\/li>\n<li>the activity is expected to have a positive impact on the economy and<\/li>\n<li>the financing of the implementation is secured through equity capital or a loan commitment.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>Another option for unsponsored work is the opportunity card. \u00a0The opportunity card is a residence permit for the purpose of seeking employment or completing programs for the recognition of foreign professional qualifications. It authorizes for employment for an average of no more than 20 hours per week and trial employment for no more than two weeks at a time, which must be:<\/p>\n<ul style=\"padding-left: 0\">\n<li>qualified,<\/li>\n<li>aimed at training or<\/li>\n<li>suitable to complete the acceptance process to be admitted to a program for the recognition of foreign professional qualifications.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>The opportunity card can be issued for foreign nationals with a recognized degree or recognized vocational qualification in Germany as recognized skilled workers or for foreign nationals who have achieved a minimum number of points. In both cases, further basic requirements, especially secured livelihood including sufficient health insurance coverage, must also be fulfilled.<\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">What are the requirements for becoming a sponsor of employment-based migrants and what are the role and reporting duties of sponsors?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>Permits in Germany are not formally sponsored but are tied to a specific job offer or employment contract. The job offer and its conditions must meet certain legal and professional requirements. This also applies to the background\/experience\/qualification of the foreign third-country national, in order for a residence permit to be granted for work purposes.<\/p>\n<p>The sponsor must be a German company with a company number from the Federal Employment Agency and an actual place of business in Germany. The employer must fulfil \u00a0reporting obligations to the authorities, e.g. in case of early termination of employment or certain changes in working conditions.<\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">Are applications filed electronically, or paper base? Is a physical visa\/work permit document issued or is an electronic approval issued?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>German missions abroad have largely implemented an\u00a0online visa application system\u00a0via a consular portal. Applicants must\u00a0register an account\u00a0and submit their visa application through this platform.<\/p>\n<p>Most immigration offices in Germany enable, that the applications can be filed electronically (via email or through an online form).\u00a0 In each case, in-person appointments are necessary (see below), which often still requires the applicant to additionally present paper-based documents.<\/p>\n<p>Relevant residence permit documents issued by the authorities are usually still paper based and needed in original (e.g., interim permits, pre-approvals for trainees).<\/p>\n<p>The visa and the residence permits are issued as paper-based documents and cannot be approved just electronically. Final residence permits are issued by the Federal National Printing Agency in a hard card format (similar to an ID card).<\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">Is an in-person attendance\/interview required as part of the visa\/work permit application process? Is an individual required to enrol their biometrics (digital photo, fingerprint scan) as part of the visa\/work permit process?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>Yes, for all applicants older than 6 years, a personal interview is required for the visa appointment and the appointment at the local immigration authorities to convert the visa into the corresponding work and residence permit card that is usually valid for four years. During these appointments, the biometric data of the applicants is collected.<\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">What persons qualify as dependants? Can dependants work based on their dependant visa status? Are there any restrictions?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>The spouse and the underage children qualify as dependents<\/p>\n<p>Other family members can currently only join the family in cases of special hardship. In addition, parents of third-country nationals who have been granted an EU Blue Card, ICT Card, or residence permit for employment as a senior executive, manager, or company specialist, scientist, gust scientist, engineer or technician in a research team or teacher after March 1, 2024, can qualify for a dependent residence permit as well. This also applies to parents of the spouse if they live in Germany.<\/p>\n<p>For a positive decision on the applications, it is important that the livelihood including sufficient health insurance and sufficient living space for the entire family is secured without reliance on public support from the German state.<\/p>\n<p>The spouse is generally expected to acquire German language skills before entering Germany. When applying for a visa, it is therefore generally necessary to present a language certificate of the lowest level A1. There are exceptions to this requirement, for example in case of privileged nationality or if the skilled worker fulfils the requirements for the EU Blue Card.<\/p>\n<p>Family members can work due to their dependent residence permit and have an unrestricted right to work in Germany.<\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">What is the general time frame and processes for obtaining permanent residence and citizenship for sponsored and unsponsored business-related immigration?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>The time frame for obtaining permanent residence is usually 5 years for most residence permit types. EU Blue Card holders may qualify earlier. If they hold an A1 German language certificate, applications can be made after 27 months and for B1 certificate holders after only 21 months of continuous employment and contribution to the social security system and German pension system and if they have obtained general knowledge of the legal and social security system by holding a \u201cLiving in Germany\u201d certificate or Citizenship test certificate.<\/p>\n<p>Spouses of permanent residence permit holders with former EU Blue Card, can obtain a permanent residence permit after 3 years if they are employed on a minimum basis of 20 hours\/week, hold a B1 German language certificate and have obtained general knowledge of the legal and social system in Germany by providing a \u201cLiving in Germany\u201d certificate or Citizenship test certificate.<\/p>\n<p>The German Citizenship Law was revised in June 2024. Previously the German citizenship could be applied for after 8 years of living in Germany and required German language skills, among other things. For those with notable commitment to integration (for example through extraordinary voluntary work), applications for German citizenship were possible after 6 to 7 years.<\/p>\n<p>With the revised law, the citizenship can be applied for after 5 years of living in Germany and for people with notable commitment to integration after 3 years.<\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">What productive type activities can a business visitor undertake and for how long?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>No productive work activities can be performed on a business trip.<\/p>\n<p>Standard business travel usually includes activities such as:<\/p>\n<ul style=\"padding-left: 0\">\n<li>attending meetings and conferences,<\/li>\n<li>promoting sales\/ services through presentations to potential clients or similar,<\/li>\n<li>conducting business negotiations,<\/li>\n<li>negotiating and signing contracts,<\/li>\n<li>attending trade fairs\/trade shows in order to promote products or services \u2013 not including direct sales activities,<\/li>\n<li>attending a job interview.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>The following activities are not classed as standard business travel activities:<\/p>\n<ul style=\"padding-left: 0\">\n<li>providing consultancy services of any kind,<\/li>\n<li>maintaining and repairing equipment,<\/li>\n<li>touring as a professional speaker.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">Can remote work be carried out from your country?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>From an immigration law perspective, a work permit (and therefore visa or residence permit) is always required when the work is carried out from inside the German territory.<\/p>\n<p>Germany has no special remote work permits or visas. Therefore, without a corporate sponsor, the options of working remotely are extremely limited.<\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">Are there any productive work \/ revenue generating activities that can be carried out as a visitor and without the need for a work permit? If so, what activities and for how long?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>Within the framework of the non-employment fiction, isolated activities, for example as a managing director, may be carried out for a specific period. Due to the high liability risk, it is strongly recommended that the activities be carefully reviewed and confirmed by an immigration expert before traveling to Germany.<\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">Is there a remote work or nomad visa category in your jurisdiction? If not, how likely is it that this will be implemented in future?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>There is no specific remote work or nomad visa. At the moment, there are no remote work permit categories planned.<\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">How easy is it to switch visa categories\/jobs\/employer from within country? And\/or if made redundant, can the individual regularise their stay in another capacity and what is the timeframe allowable?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>In general, it is possible to switch between residence permit categories and employers and jobs. However, since most residence permits are tied to a specific employer and job\/offer, switching employers\/jobs generally requires a new application and has to be approved by the immigration office. This also applies to any change of residence categories, as the authority must check their eligibility.<\/p>\n<p>Since November 2023, EU Blue Card holders do no longer require an approval by the immigration office to change their employer. However, they must still notify the authority of any change of employer\/job\/employment circumstances within the first 12 months of their employment as an EU Blue Card holder. The authority can suspend the change for 30 days to review the requirements.<\/p>\n<p>The timeframe depends on the appointment situation at the respective immigration office. General processing times are 8 \u2013 12 weeks. In case of redundancy or job loss, the immigration office can \u00a0issue opportunity cards, allowing the holders to stay in Germany to look for a new employment. The duration of such a permit is at the discretion of the authorities.<\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">What common issues or concerns may arise for employers under business immigration in your jurisdiction?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>The appointment situation and processing times at German consulates and embassies abroad varies greatly and depends on the situation in the country itself, so delays may occur.<\/p>\n<p>The same can apply to the immigration offices and their ability to allocate and respond to appointments at short notice.<\/p>\n<p>This delays the procedure and can also have a negative impact on workers, their start dates and relocation plans.<\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">Is there a fast track process \/ certification that business can obtain to expedite visa \/ permit processing?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>In 2020, a fast-track procedure was introduced for workers with a local employment contract. The employer has to conclude a corresponding contract with the competent immigration office a processing fee of currently \u20ac411 has to be paid and the application must be related to a residence permit for which the procedure is applicable ( e.g., skilled worker, company specialist, IT specialist, etc.).<\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">What are the recent trends, both political and social that have impacted (or are anticipated to impact) your jurisdiction with regard to immigration policy and law?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>The war in Ukraine has affected immigration policy and law in our country. A special residence title for Ukrainian citizens who fled to Germany because of the war in Ukraine is issued (residence permit for temporary protection). With this residence title, Ukrainian citizens can quickly and with minimal bureaucracy obtain a legal residence status and receive a work permit without restrictions.<\/p>\n<p>In addition, the growing shortage of qualified professionals with vocational training is having an impact on immigration policy. Thus, the access of foreign skilled workers with vocational training was facilitated with the Skilled Workers Immigration Act.<\/p>\n<p>Germany aims to become more attractive as a business location, especially for qualified skilled workers, by making the immigration process as simple as possible, including \u00a0their relatives (partners, children) to enter the country. Furthermore, the recognition of foreign vocational training shall be further simplified.<\/p>\n<p>Recent changes are currently being implemented especially regarding the digitalization of immigration procedures which are intended to further improve Germany\u2019s attractiveness for the immigration of skilled workers from all over the world.<\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">How has the COVID-19 pandemic shaped current immigration landscape in your jurisdiction?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>The COVID 19 pandemic and the accompanying travel restrictions had a huge impact on the ability of skilled workers to travel and relocate; in addition, demand from companies for staff had dropped significantly. Furthermore, the ever-changing entry rules &#8211; and restrictions &#8211; have created a great deal of uncertainty.<\/p>\n<p>While the pandemic also helped with advancing electronic applications and an interest in digitalization, it no longer has an effect at this time.<\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">Are there any new and \/ or anticipated changes impacting immigration law and \/ or policy in your jurisdiction?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>The family reunification of skilled workers from third countries (non-EU\/EEA\/Swiss nationals) has been facilitated. In order to make immigration to Germany more attractive for skilled workers, proof of German language skills was waived when their families join them. The regulation is limited to skilled workers.<\/p>\n<p>Well-integrated foreigners who merely hold the status of being tolerated in Germany (without residence permit) should be able to obtain a right to stay and switch to residence permit if certain requirements are met.<\/p>\n<p>Furthermore, changes of requirements regarding the EU Blue Card have gotten into effect on 18 November 2023, lowering the salary threshold for obtaining the Blue Card EU significantly and allowing IT-specialists without recognized University degree to qualify for \u00a0a Blue Card EU as well.<\/p>\n<p>Moreover, since March 2024 foreigners with a minimum of two years of professional experience in combination with a professional or university degree, recognized by the state in the country of origin, entitles foreigners to work in non-regulated professions. Previously this only applied to IT-specialists.<\/p>\n<p>In addition, access to the labour market for nursing assistants was created and an option for short-term employment was additionally introduced in June 2024, so that companies can respond more easily to fluctuating personnel needs.<\/p>\n<p>Temporarily enabled family reunion visa for parents and in-laws of skilled workers and the introduction of the opportunity card have been implemented in June 2024, which allows issuance of visa for job seekers if they fulfil certain criteria such as qualifications or a required amount of points through professional experience, language skills, age of the applicant and previous residence in Germany.<\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">How do you see technology developing and evolving to support immigration process in the future?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>As many immigration offices and authorities in Germany are still in the process of implementing working digitally, there is still great potential for technological development in the public sector.<\/p>\n<p>The visa application form for a Schengen visa or national D-visa can be filled out online but must be brought as a printout to the application appointment. German embassies are currently implementing online visa applications through the consular portal for expanding categories worldwide.<\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">What are the Right to Work requirements in your jurisdiction?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>Every employer who hires third-country nationals must ensure that the third-country national holds \u00a0a valid work permit and must keep a copy of it on file.<\/p>\n<p>In addition, certain changes in the job or working conditions must be reported to or approved by the authorities, as well as reporting of early terminations. Similarly, the employee must ensure that they are in possession of a valid and correct residence permit and must inform the authorities of changes or early terminations.<\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">What are the types of civil and criminal penalties employers may face for non-compliance with immigration rules i.e. employing an individual who does not have the Right to Work?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>If an employer violates the law that a foreigner may only be employed with a residence and work permit, this can result in a fine of up to \u20ac500,000.<\/p>\n<p>In the event of persistent repetition, the act may be punished with imprisonment of up to three years or a fine.<\/p>\n<p>The same applies if more than five foreigners are employed without authorization.<\/p>\n<p>If, in addition to the unauthorized employment, significantly worse working conditions than usual are granted, this may result in an imprisonment of up to five years.<\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">Are there labour market testing requirements in your jurisdiction and if so, what do they involve?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>The Federal Employment Agency is generally required by law to undertake a labour market testing if third-country employees from countries that do not belong to the European Union (EU) or the European Economic Area (EEA) &#8211; are to be employed. As a rule, the labour market review consists of a priority review and the review of employment conditions. However, the priority review generally does not apply to skilled-workers and privileged nationals anymore due to the ongoing shortage of skilled workers in Germany.<\/p>\n<p>When performing the priority review, the Federal Employment Agency checks all persons registered as unemployed or seeking work to determine whether so-called &#8220;preferred&#8221; employees are available to fill the position. Preferred applicants are domestic applicants as well as applicants from EU or EEA countries. After that the employment conditions are checked, which includes salaries and working hours.<\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">Are there quota requirements, restrictions or a cap on the numbers of foreign nationals hired per company in your jurisdiction?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>No, there generally are no restrictions on the numbers of foreign nationals hired per company if their staffing is balanced and contains locals. \u00a0In the case of a posting as a personnel exchange, one employee of the domestic part of the company should also be posted abroad for each foreign employee coming to Germany. This relieves the German labour market.<\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">Are there any exit procedures in your jurisdiction, if an individual is departing permanently?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>Every person (including Germans and EU citizens) who leaves Germany permanently must deregister at the local town hall. If the third-country national holds a residence permit with the main purpose of employment and terminates it early, this must usually be reported to the immigration office.<\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">Are there any requirements for medical certificates or vaccinations for your jurisdiction?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>Residence permits and visas are only granted if the applicant can prove that they have sufficient health insurance comparable to the German statutory health insurance. No special vaccinations are currently required.<\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">Are there any language requirements for your jurisdiction?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>The language requirements depend on the different residence permit types:<\/p>\n<p>&#8211; No language skills are required to apply for an EU Blue Card.<\/p>\n<p>&#8211; Skilled workers are to be granted a permanent settlement permit if they have a sufficient command of the German language (Level B1).<\/p>\n<p>&#8211; A third-country national shall be granted a permanent settlement permit if the foreigner has a sufficient command of the German language (Level B1)<\/p>\n<p>&#8211; To ensure language ability for vocational training, foreigners are required to furnish proof that they have sufficient command (B1) of the German language, if their language skills required for the vocational training have not been tested by the educational institution and is not to be acquired in a preparatory German language course.<\/p>\n<p>&#8211; Generally, a foreigner\u2019s spouse is to be granted a temporary residence permit if the spouse is able to communicate in the German language at least on a basic level (Level A1).<\/p>\n<p>&#8211; From 31 December 2022, spouses of highly skilled foreign workers qualifying for work permits as Specialists, highly qualified professionals are no longer required to present proof of German basic language proficiency level A1 for the visa\/residence permit applications.\u00a0 Previously, only spouses of EU Blue Card holders are exempted from the language requirement. See below list of the work permit types where the language requirements for spouses are waived:<\/p>\n<ul style=\"padding-left: 0\">\n<li>\u00a7 18g Abs. 1 AufenthG \u2013 EU Blue Card<\/li>\n<li>\u00a7 19 AufenthG \u2013 ICT Card<\/li>\n<li>\u00a7 19b AufenthG \u2013 Mobile ICT Card<\/li>\n<li>\u00a7 18a Skilled workers with vocational training qualification<\/li>\n<li>\u00a7 18b Skilled workers holding a university degree<\/li>\n<li>\u00a7 18c Absatz 3 Permanent settlement permit for skilled workers<\/li>\n<li>19c Absatz 1 AufenthG i.V.m. \u00a7 3 BeschV \u2013 Work permits as leading executive, managers and specialists<\/li>\n<li>\u00a7 21 AufenthG &#8211; Permit for self-employment<\/li>\n<li>\u00a7 18d AufenthG &#8211; Scientist, as a visiting scientist, as an engineer or technician on a visiting scientist&#8217;s research team, or as a faculty member<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">What are the government costs associated with a typical employment based visa?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>The processing fee is \u20ac80 for Schengen visas and \u20ac75 for national visas (for longer stays).<\/p>\n<p>Issuance of a residence permit, an EU Blue Card or an ICT Card costs \u20ac100.<\/p>\n<p>The fees for the fast-track procedure for skilled workers are 411\u20ac.<\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">Is a local contract of employment required in order to obtain a work based visa or work permit? Are there salary or other thresholds to be met by the migrant?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>Some work-related visas\/residence permits require a local contract, but there are also visa\/residence permit options for people who are formally posted.<\/p>\n<p>A foreign worker must generally be paid a salary comparable to that of other workers with similar jobs and professional backgrounds in Germany. In addition, for some types of permits, such as the EU Blue Card, there are certain salary thresholds that must be met. In 2025, the threshold for an EU Blue Card is \u20ac 48,300or \u20ac43,759.80 for shortage occupations, IT-Specialists, and freshly graduated EU Blue Card applicants.<\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">What are the maximum periods of stay for individuals on an employment based visa \/ work permit?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>In the case of an ICT-Card secondment, the maximum period of is limited to 3 years.<\/p>\n<p>In the case of local employment contracts, there are no restrictions.<\/p>\n<p>Other secondments vary depending on social security agreements. However, permits must be renewed before their expiry date.<\/p>\n<p>Permanent residence permit cards must be renewed together with the person&#8217;s passport.<\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">Does your jurisdiction allow dual nationality?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>The law on dual citizenship has been revised and allows dual citizenship since June 2024.<\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">What are the most positive aspects of your immigration system compared to the rest of the world?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>The German Immigration Act has been amended in 2020 and adjusted again with the Law on Further Development of the Skilled Immigration Act in 2023\/2024. These updates aim to better reflect the country\u2019s growing need for foreign skilled workers and to make Germany a more attractive destination for global talent.<\/p>\n<p>For professions in\u00a0natural sciences and technology, the\u00a0requirements for certain permits have been relaxed, making it easier for qualified professionals in high-demand fields to immigrate and work in Germany.<\/p>\n<p>German residence law allows for exceptions in individual cases, particularly when a longer stay abroad becomes unavoidable with the authority\u2019s discretion.<\/p>\n<p>While such absences would typically result in the expiry of the residence permit, authorities may grant discretionary extensions depending on the circumstances.<\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">Are you facing any challenges resulting from a shortage of skills. If yes, which skills?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>Yes, Germany is currently facing notable challenges resulting from a shortage of skills. The most affected areas include among others:<\/p>\n<ul style=\"padding-left: 0\">\n<li>Healthcare and Nursing: There is a persistent shortage of qualified nursing staff and care assistants, particularly in elderly care and clinical settings.<\/li>\n<li>IT and Digital Technologies: Skilled professionals in software development, cybersecurity, and data science are in high demand, with a growing gap between market needs and available talent.<\/li>\n<li>Engineering and Technical Fields: Mechanical, electrical, and civil engineers, as well as technicians in manufacturing and automation, are increasingly difficult to recruit.<\/li>\n<li>Skilled Trades: Vocationally trained professionals such as electricians, plumbers, and construction workers are also in short supply.<\/li>\n<li>Education and Early Childhood Care: There is a rising need for qualified educators and childcare professionals, especially in urban regions.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">Are there any plans in place to address green skills and\/or to support transition to green economies\u2019?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>While Germany\u2019s legislation does not yet explicitly define \u201cgreen skills\u201d as a separate category, the general transition to a greener economy is reflected in several developments:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>The Opportunity Card (Chancenkarte) introduced in June 2024 allows skilled professionals &#8211; including those with experience in renewable energy, sustainable construction, and environmental technologies &#8211; to enter Germany without a prior job offer and actively seek employment.<\/li>\n<li>The expanded recognition of foreign qualifications now includes a wider range of technical and vocational professions, many of which are relevant to green sectors such as energy efficiency, sustainable logistics, and eco-friendly manufacturing.<\/li>\n<li>The government has emphasized the need to attract talent that supports Germany\u2019s digital and ecological transformation, which includes roles in climate tech, circular economy, and green infrastructure.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>These reforms are part of a broader strategy to make Germany more competitive and future-ready, both economically and environmentally. As immigration law continues to evolve, we also may experience further alignment with sustainability goals and targeted pathways for green-skilled professionals.<\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\r\n<div class=\"word-count-hidden\" style=\"display:none;\">Estimated word count: <span class=\"word-count\">4643<\/span><\/div>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t<\/ol>\r\n\r\n<script type=\"text\/javascript\" src=\"\/wp-content\/themes\/twentyseventeen\/src\/jquery\/components\/filter-guides.js\" async><\/script><\/div>"}},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/my.legal500.com\/guides\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comparative_guide\/112606","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/my.legal500.com\/guides\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comparative_guide"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/my.legal500.com\/guides\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/comparative_guide"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/my.legal500.com\/guides\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=112606"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}