How to Begin and Settle in Germany with "German Job Seeker Visa"
Guest Blog Article by KC Raj
Germany has a lot to offer in terms of career opportunities. The German government is looking for skilled workers and professionals from all over with a "German Job Seeker Visa." This blog post will guide you through what you need to do to get your visa, find jobs that match your qualifications and settle in Germany.
You can search for jobs on sites like Monster or Indeed and job boards specific to Germany such as Stepstone. With the many different types of visas available, it may be challenging to decide which one is best suited for your situation, so make sure to read up before applying! Chances are you will find a lot of information on working in Germany, but not much on how to get your visa. The best course of action is to apply for the "German Job Seeker Visa" before arriving in Germany. Because this is only a temporary visa, it may be difficult for you to get one if you do not have any solid job prospects in Germany. You can immediately start looking for a job once you arrive.
Step 1: Find Your German Job Seeker Visa According to the German immigration law, you are free to search for jobs while living in Germany on a provisional basis. However, if you would like to work and stay in Germany for longer than three months, you need to apply for the "German Job Seeker Visa." To apply for this visa, you must be from outside of the EU and have at least one year of work experience in your occupation.
Step 2: Prepare for Your Visa Appointment.
This visa is only valid during the first six months after arrival in Germany. It is given only to those who present themselves as qualified to find a job within six months of arriving in Germany. So need to make sure to have all of your documents ready before applying.
The German embassy recommends that you present your original university diploma and transcripts, certificates and work references. Make sure you have filled out the visa application before your appointment, two passport-size photos, and proof that you can support yourself financially during your stay in Germany.
Step 3: Determine your status; after submitting all the necessary documents, you will receive a letter indicating your job-seeking visa application is approved or not.
Step 4: Find Your First Job Once you arrive in Germany. You can also start searching for jobs before arriving in Germany, but you have to prove that you have already received a job offer. Check out the different types of visas that are available for skilled workers!
Step 5: Find Accommodation Finding your first apartment in Germany is not as difficult as people think. There are many websites to find sublets or rental opportunities, including Facebook groups dedicated to sharing housing.
Step 6: Find a Health Insurance Provider Since the German Job Seeker Visa is only valid for three months, you do not need to purchase health insurance from the government. However, if you want to stay in Germany permanently, you will need to enrol in a public health insurance program or purchase private cover.
Step 7: Find an Apprenticeship if not a job:
If you are still interested in finding an apprenticeship instead of a job, you should follow the below steps.
Step 8:
To stay more than six months in Germany, to work or participate in an apprenticeship programme, you should apply for a residence permit based on the job/apprenticeship offer received.
The Resident Permit allows you to live and work/participate in the apprenticeship training in Germany.
Benefits of settling in Germany with a "German Job Seeker Visa"?
1. Germany is a country with a very high standard of living
2. The German economy is the largest in Europe and the fifth-largest in the world
3. The unemployment rate stands at 3% as opposed to 9% in France and 12% in Spain
4. Germany offers many opportunities for work, especially for those who speak English or French
5. Germans are known for their efficiency and punctuality so you can expect your boss to be on time!
6. You'll have access to free health care and education, which will help you save money over time
7. You can apply for a German Permanent Residence after one year of living in Germany, which will grant you the same rights and benefits as German citizens
8. Depending on your country of origin, you may be able to apply for citizenship after 10 years
9. If you decide that Germany is not right for you after all, then! you can go back to your home country. No questions asked.
After one year of living in Germany, you may be able to apply for citizenship if:
1) You have lived in the country legally and without interruption for eight years (10 years if born in Germany or an EU country and no more than three years absent from the country),
2) You have held a "Special or regular Residence Status" during that time,
3) You can prove proficiency in German (by taking a test), and;
4) You know the basics of the legal and social system.
Conclusion
As you embark on your new journey, remember that settling in Germany is only part of the process. After all, there are plenty of steps to take after arriving at this destination. From finding an apartment and job opportunity to securing a health insurance plan for yourself or family member(s), it can be challenging enough to just figure out what needs to happen next. That's where we come in! Our team will help make sure you have everything taken care of before departure to focus on preparing for your relocation once you arrive here. Contact us today if interested in taking advantage of any one (or more!) services listed above - our experts are ready and waiting to assist with anything related to settlement abroad."
Author Bio
KC Raj is a career counsellor and recruiter with many years of experience. Interested in topics like human development, education, immigration, inequality, and many other international issues.
Reachable at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kc-raj-kcr/
KC Raj is a socialist in thinking and believes in the "One Nation, One World" theory.