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  • Getting started in a job: how to succeed

Checklist for international skilled workers: Getting started in a job: how to succeed

This checklist helps you prepare for starting work in Germany – from job hunting, to visas, through to finding accommodation and settling in. It details all the important steps and official contact points.

Close-up of a checklist with six black boxes one below the other. The top four boxes have been ticked with a red pen. Close-up of a checklist with six black boxes one below the other. The top four boxes have been ticked with a red pen.

Diese Checkliste auf Deutsch

Preparation and application

  • Exploring the career opportunities: which professions are in demand? Information is available at Make it in Germany.
  • Checking the recognition of your professional qualifications: at Recognition in Germany, you can find out whether your qualifications are recognised.
  • Creating application documents: in Germany, having a CV, writing covering letters and having certificates is important. ZAV provides advice on these things.
  • Getting started with your job search: current vacancies can be found in the Job search engine of the Federal Employment Agency and at Make it in Germany.

Visa and residence permit

  • Checking whether you need a visa: citizens of the European Union (EU) do not require a visa, but skilled workers from third countries usually do. Information is available at Make it in Germany.
  • Applying for a residence permit: this takes place after you arrive in Germany at the foreign residents’ registration office in your place of residence.
  • Ensure the recognition of your contract of employment: employers almost always have to have the jobs they offer to foreign residents approved by the Federal Employment Agency. There are exceptions, though: for EU citizens and highly qualified persons, for example.
  • Checking your eligibility for an “EU Blue Card”: for university graduates who have a high annual income, the EU Blue Card residence permit can be an alternative.

Finding somewhere to live and registering as a resident

  • Seeing what’s available on the housing market: look for accommodation on websites such as WG-Gesucht and Immobilienscout24 and in the local media
  • Signing a rental agreement: information on rental agreements and the rights of tenants is available at Make it in Germany.
  • Registering at the residents’ registration office: you are required to register as a resident of your town or city within two weeks of moving in to your home.
  • Opening a bank account: many banks offer special bank accounts for international skilled workers.

Clarifying financial matters

  • Applying for a tax number: this is automatically sent out by the tax office after your employer has registered for social security.
  • Social security and health insurance: employers automatically register new employees for the health insurance provider of their choice. A variety of health insurers are available which offer different benefits. More information about this is available at Make it in Germany.
  • Understanding your payslip: the Federal Employment Agency provides information on income tax, social security contributions (contributions to unemployment insurance, healthcare, nursing care and pension insurance) and your net salary.

Language classes and integration

  • Learning German: language classes are available through the Goethe Institute and at local community colleges.
  • Attending integration courses: these courses are offered by the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees (BAMF).
  • Getting to know other skilled workers: networks such as Internations or local meet-ups can help you to integrate.

Stand: 05.05.2025

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