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How to get a job in Germany as an international professional

Germany faces skilled-worker shortages and has opened several routes for international professionals, including the points-based Opportunity Card for job seekers. Here is how the main routes work and how to apply effectively.

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JobsDart Editorial
2 min read

Key Takeaways

  • The Opportunity Card (Chancenkarte) lets qualified non-EU professionals come to Germany to look for work.
  • The EU Blue Card is for university graduates with a qualifying job offer above a minimum salary.
  • Having your qualifications recognised is often a key step, and is mandatory for regulated professions.
  • Many tech jobs use English, but German skills widen your options and help day-to-day life considerably.

Main routes for non-EU professionals

Common routes to work in Germany
RouteWho it suitsKey points
Opportunity Card (Chancenkarte)Skilled workers who want to search for a job in GermanyPoints-based (qualifications, language, experience, age, ties to Germany); allows a job search period with limited part-time work
EU Blue CardUniversity graduates with a job offerRequires a minimum salary that is updated each year; lower thresholds apply to shortage occupations and recent graduates
Skilled worker visaPeople with recognised vocational or academic qualifications and a job offerCovers many occupations beyond university-level roles
IT specialists without a degreeExperienced IT professionalsPossible with sufficient professional experience and a qualifying job offer

Recognition of qualifications

For regulated professions such as medicine, nursing, teaching and some engineering roles, recognition of your foreign qualification is mandatory. For many other jobs, a comparability statement for your degree is still helpful or required for certain visas. Start this early, because it can take weeks or months.

German-style CV (Lebenslauf)

  • Typically one to two pages, in reverse-chronological order, often in a tabular layout
  • Include exact months and years for each role and education entry
  • A photo is optional and increasingly omitted, though still common
  • Write a tailored cover letter (Anschreiben) when requested
  • Include certificates and references (Arbeitszeugnisse) if you have them
  • Apply in English for English-language postings, in German for German ones

Do you need to speak German?

International tech companies and start-ups in cities like Berlin and Munich often work in English. Outside tech, and in healthcare, public-facing and many traditional companies, German is usually required. Even basic German (A2–B1) improves your chances and daily life, and it can add points for the Opportunity Card.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I go to Germany to look for a job?

Yes. The Opportunity Card is designed for qualified non-EU professionals to search for work in Germany, subject to eligibility and points.

What salary do I need for an EU Blue Card?

There is a minimum gross salary that is updated annually, with a lower threshold for shortage occupations and recent graduates. Check the current figure on the official Make it in Germany portal.

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