Germany Job Seeker visa is one of the best pathways in 2024 for skilled professionals planning to work and settle in Germany. Learn the process, requirements, eligibility conditions, cost and most asked FAQs.
The Germany Job Seeker Visa enables qualified graduates from outside the EU to explore employment opportunities
After submitting the necessary documents, processing usually takes about one week. Although this is a national visa, it also allows travel to other Schengen countries for tourism, with stays of up to 90 days permitted during the visa period.
The Germany Jobseeker’s Visa allows university graduates from non-EU countries to stay in Germany for up to six months. It aims to help graduates find employment that matches their qualifications within this timeframe. If they are unable to secure a job, the visa cannot be renewed, and they will need to return to their home country.
The scheme enables applicants to explore the German job market firsthand. Also, it helps professionals connect with potential employers, attend interviews, and secure employment.
Cost Item |
Cost in EUR |
Cost in INR |
Visa Application Fee |
75 |
6,700 |
Travel Health Insurance |
150 |
15,000 |
ZAB Qualification Assessment (1st time) |
200 |
20,000 |
ZAB Qualification Assessment (Not 1st) |
100 |
10,000 |
Flight Tickets (India to Germany) |
600 |
60,000 |
Document Verification (New Delhi) |
400 - 650 |
40,000 - 65,000 |
Document Verification (Bangalore) |
270 - 470 |
27,000 - 47,000 |
Document Verification (Kolkata) |
130 - 315 |
13,000 - 31,500 |
Document Verification (Chennai) |
470 |
47,000 |
Document Verification (Mumbai) |
700 |
70,000 |
Miscellaneous Expenses |
May Vary |
May Vary |
Total Estimated Cost |
May Vary |
May Vary |
Note: The costs mentioned above are approximate. Hence, it may vary based on individual circumstances and exchange rates.
The processing time for a German Job Seeker Visa ranges from 4 to 6 weeks, as per the general rule of the consulate. But, the actual duration may vary based on individual circumstances. Your prompt submission of all required documents greatly influences the processing speed. Hence, ensuring timely submission enhances the likelihood of a quicker processing time.
To apply for a Job Seeker Visa for Germany, follow these steps:
To apply for the German Job Seeker permit, follow these steps:
Complete the job seeker application form diligently. Print and sign it before proceeding.
Get an appointment with the German Embassy or consultate3 in your home country. Note that one must book an appointment in advance.
Gather all necessary documents as per the checklist. Ensure they are in either English or German.
On the day of your appointment, arrive at the German embassy on time. Have all required documents ready and pay the applicable fees.
Provide the application along with the necessary documents during your German embassy appointment.
Required Documents |
Description |
Completed Application Form |
Fill out the job seeker visa application form accurately and completely. |
Valid Passport |
Provide a passport with a validity period exceeding your intended stay in Germany. |
Passport Data Page Copy |
Include a copy of the passport data page showing your personal details and photo. |
Passport Photos (3) |
Submit three recent passport-sized photographs meeting the specifications. |
Cover Letter |
Write a cover letter outlining your career goals, intentions, and qualifications for employment in Germany. |
Updated CV |
Prepare an updated CV or resume detailing your education, work experience, and skills. |
Academic Qualification Documents |
Include certificates or transcripts verifying your educational qualifications. |
Proof of Accommodation |
Provide evidence of accommodation arrangements in Germany, such as rental agreements. |
Health Insurance Proof |
Present proof of health insurance coverage meeting German requirements for the stay duration. |
Proof of Financial Resources |
Show evidence of sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay in Germany. |
Motivation Letter |
Details of your job search plan, including sector, region, accommodation, and any relevant job applications or offers. |
University Degree |
Original and copy of your degree, with a translation into German or English if necessary. Confirmation of recognition in Germany is required. |
When you secure employment in Germany while on a Job Seeker Visa, you must apply for an employment residence permit. This can be done through two avenues:
EU Blue Card: To get an EU Blue Card, you need a job offer with an annual salary of at least 44,800 Euros or 34,944 Euros for certain occupations. With this, you can apply for permanent residence. This must be done in 33 months directly or within 21 months by demonstrating proficiency in the German language.
Your employer will sponsor you for this permit. After 5 years, you can apply for permanent residence. Additionally, you can bring your family members to Germany. You can do so through the Family Reunion Long-Term Visa subject to meeting the necessary requirements.
Employment Residence Permit: You can apply for an Employment Residence Permit. This permit allows you to work in Germany and the employer sponsor it. You can also apply for permanent residence after 5 years of staying in Germany.
Both options have their respective requirements and benefits. Thus, you should assess which one aligns best with your circumstances and long-term goals.
There is a high demand in Germany for qualified and skilled professionals. These include mechanical, automotive, electrical and construction engineers, IT professionals, trained nurses and doctors, and teachers. Indians are high in demand in Germany. It's because a majority of Indian students opt for degrees of streams whereas Germany has skills shortage.
Hence, it is not at all difficult with a German job seeker permit and plenty of job opportunities to get a job in Germany and get a residence permit.
Bonus: Tips to find a job in Germany
Kansas has a team of professionals. Here we not only help with Germany immigration and residence permit but also assist you with writers and job search experts.
The Germany Job Seeker permit aims to help people find work in the country. It lasts for six months. Hence, it gives applicants time to search for jobs that match their skills and qualifications.
Once they find a job within this period, they can switch to either an EU Blue Card or an Employment Residence Permit. The choice depends on their job offer and qualifications. These permits allow them to work legally in Germany and may lead to permanent residency.
Overall, the Job Seeker Visa gives applicants the legal right to look for work in Germany. This improves their chances of finding a job within six months.
No, the Germany Job Seeker permit cannot be extended if you don't find a job within the initial six-month validity period. Once the visa expires, you need to leave Germany unless you obtain another type of visa or permit allowing you to stay legally.
But, if you wish to continue searching for employment in Germany, you may look into other options available. This can be a student visa, language course visa, or a tourist visa, depending on your circumstances. Each visa type has its own requirements and limitations. So it's essential to research and choose the most suitable option for your situation.
We have a team of qualified and experienced immigration consultants who specialize in the German visa process.
We cater services that not only meet your visa needs but also serve you beyond:
We help you check whether your occupation is listed in Germany's in-demand list. Along with this, our team guides you to understand the eligibility requirements, customized document checklist, process, and more.
We apply for the visa on your behalf and follow-up with the concerned authorities to keep you updated on the status.
We have India's finest writers who specialize in preparing German standard resumes and cover letters.
Firstly, we help you understand what happens during the visa interview. Our team prepares you to pass the interview with a positive result. We also help you prepare for German jobs.
As German employers are keen on several aspects while hiring foreign candidates, we help you crack the code.
With our recognition of being "more than just a visa company", we go the extra mile in providing you services that help you enjoy a comfortable stay in Germany. From accommodation search help to post-landing services, we cover everything!
While this is an overview of the process, the finer details of this permit can be collected from our consultant at any of our nearest branches.
Kansas Overseas Careers has been helping students as well as professionals to migrate to Germany through various visa pathways including residence permit and shall be glad to assist you too
Language proficiency proofs are not required. You are not required to take any test for English (IELTS, TOEFL) or German.
You are required to be fluent in both English and German.
At present, the German unemployment rate is 7%, with plenty of opportunities for talented, skilled workers. With a job seeker visa, you will be in the German job market and have access to all the information.
Here you will have the opportunity to attend the interview in person. You are not require to fix a time according to the time zone and have a video phase interview outside Germany.
As there are many opportunities for the skilled person. So, if you are in Germany with a job seeker permit, it increases the chances three times of landing a job.
Having German language skills is not necessary for getting a job in Germany, it will just narrow up the options for you.
But still, you have plenty of job opportunities waiting for you there.
Below are the career options where you even can get a job just by knowing English:
There are many vacancies for software developers as it is a skill shortage in Germany. Software engineering and software development do not require technical knowledge of the German Language.
This skill is also a skilled job where the ability to speak in German is not necessary to complete the job responsibility.
Under this skill, any language you speak other than German would be an advantage to working as a customer service executive.
Counselling for international clients can be an advantage in this niche. Knowing English can help you to interact with clients outside Germany.
This is a highly skilled and specialized job where German language is not required. If your job roles do not need to interact with clients or German legislative bodies, the English language is more than enough.
Thus you have higher chances of getting a job even you lack German speaking skills. They are several other domains where English is the only language preferred for interaction or expertise working.
While the country welcomes professionals of all sectors, it has a special demand for candidates representing the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Medical (STEM) sectors, who are also more likely to get residence permit later.
The Job Seeker Visa Scheme is helping German employers find skilled candidates and fill the vacant positions.
Visit your nearest Kansas Overseas Career branch today! You can also get in touch with our experts by Schedule an Appointment or by calling our toll-free number 1800-102-0109
The work visa in Germany, officially known as the "German Employment Visa," allows non-EU/EEA nationals to live and work in Germany temporarily. It is typically issued for a specific job or employment opportunity.
To obtain this, applicants must have a job offer from a German employer and meet certain requirements, including possessing the necessary qualifications and demonstrating sufficient financial means. Once in Germany, visa holders can engage in the approved employment activity for the specified period, with the possibility of extension or transition to a permanent residency status.
To apply for a Germany Jobseeker Visa, you need to fulfil the following requirements:
Getting a German Job Seeker Visa is quite simple if you meet the requirements. But, landing a job relies on factors like your qualifications, skills, the job market demand, and how well you speak German.
The success rate of obtaining a Germany Job Seekers Visa for Indians varies based on individual qualifications and circumstances. While many Indians successfully secure the visas and find employment, success ultimately depends on meeting the visa requirements and finding suitable job opportunities.
The bank balance needed for a Germany Job Seeker Visa varies. But generally, applicants must demonstrate enough funds to sustain themselves during their stay in Germany. Exact amounts vary, so it's advisable to check the latest requirements from the German embassy or consulate.
Once you've obtained a Job Seeker Visa and arrived in Germany, it's not mandatory to secure a job in a specific field. But, actively pursuing employment aligned with your qualifications boosts your chances of extending your visa through a work permit or residence permit.
Applicants for a Germany Job Seeker Visa must provide proof of financial means to support themselves during their stay. While specific amounts can vary, having access to funds for living expenses, accommodation, and healthcare coverage is essential.
It's generally not possible to apply for a dependent visa based solely on a Germany Job Seekers Visa. Dependent visas are typically available for spouses, children, or other family members of individuals holding certain types of residence permits or work visas in Germany.
Eligibility for a Germany Job Seekers Visa includes:
Success on a 6-month German Job Seekers permit varies among individuals. While some secure employment within the timeframe, others may need additional time. Success depends on factors such as qualifications, job market demand, language proficiency, and networking efforts.
Proof of funds for a German Job Seeker permit includes bank statements or a blocked bank account. They must reflect sufficient funds to cover living expenses, accommodation, and healthcare during their stay in Germany.
What is the total cost involved in getting a job seeker permit for Germany?
The total cost of a Germany Job Seeker Visa includes:
Exact costs vary depending on individual circumstances. Also, it may require consultation with service provider.
Kansas can assist with the German Job Seeker Visa process by guiding on:
Yes, individuals meeting the eligibility criteria can apply for a Job Seeker Visa in Germany. This allows them to stay in Germany for up to six months. During this time they can search for employment opportunities aligned with their qualifications and skills.
If you find a job during your Germany Job Seeker Visa period, you can transition to a work permit or residence permit. This can depend on the job offer and your qualifications. It's essential to inform the relevant authorities. Also, you must follow the necessary steps to legalize your employment status.
While having work experience may strengthen your application, it's not always a strict requirement. Applicants should focus on highlighting their qualifications, skills, and readiness to find employment in Germany during the visa application process.
Kansas Overseas Careers Pvt Ltd is NOT a RECRUITMENT / PLACEMENT AGENCY, we neither assist in any kind of Job / employment offers nor do guarantee any kind of domestic/International placements.