Germany is one of the most popular destinations for expats who want to work and live in Europe. However, finding a job in Germany as an english speaker can be challenging and requires careful planning and preparation. This article will provide you with a complete guide on how to get a job in Germany as an expat, covering topics such as visa requirements, language skills, job search strategies, application tips, interview techniques, and cultural norms. Whether you are looking for a full-time, part-time, or freelance job, this article will help you achieve your career goals in Germany.
Germany is one of the most attractive destinations for expats who want to work in Europe. With a strong economy, a high standard of living, and a rich cultural heritage, Germany offers many opportunities for foreigners with different skills and backgrounds. However, finding a job in Germany as an expat is not always easy. You need to know where to look, what the requirements are, and how to apply for a work visa.
The Job Market in Germany
On the one hand, Germany has record employment and low unemployment; on the other hand, it suffers from a severe shortage of skilled workers in many sectors and regions. This mismatch between supply and demand of labor poses a serious challenge for the competitiveness and growth potential of the German economy. Some of the most affected sectors are logistics, hospitality, automotive, mechanical engineering, education and IT industries. This is bad for Germany because it makes it harder to grow and compete with other countries.
Why does Germany have this problem? There are many reasons, but some of them are: the people in Germany are getting older and fewer; many women and people came to Germany from third countries do not work.
How can Germany solve this problem? To overcome this problem, Germany is pursuing various strategies, such as attracting skilled workers from abroad, especially from non-EU countries, through a new immigration law and an 'opportunity card’; promoting lifelong learning and vocational training; increasing the retirement age and the flexibility of working hours; and supporting the digital and green transformation of the economy. These changes are expected to make Germany a better place to work and live.
The good news for people who are looking to relocate to Germany is that, there are some sectors and occupations that have a shortage of workers in Germany, which means that they are more open to hiring foreigners. These include:
Health care professionals (doctors, nurses, dentists, etc.)
IT specialists (software developers, programmers, etc.)
Engineers (mechanical, electrical, civil, etc.)
Scientists (biologists, chemists, physicists, etc.)
Teachers (especially for English and STEM subjects)
Skilled trades (electricians, plumbers, carpenters, etc.)
If you have experience and qualifications in these fields, you will have a better chance of finding a job in Germany as an expat.
The Best Websites and Resources to Find Jobs in Germany
One of the best ways to find a job in Germany as an expat is to use some of the popular online platforms that list job vacancies. These include:
Make it in Germany: This is the official website for qualified professionals who want to work in Germany. It provides information on visa requirements, recognition of foreign qualifications, job opportunities, and living conditions. It also has a job portal where you can search for jobs by keyword, location, industry, and occupation.
Federal Employment Agency: This is the largest provider of labor market services in Germany. It offers online job listings, career counseling, vocational training, and unemployment benefits. You can register with them as a job seeker and upload your CV. You can also use their [European Job Mobility Portal] (EURES) to find jobs across Europe.
Berufenet: This is a database of more than 3,000 occupations in Germany. It provides detailed information on the tasks, skills, qualifications, salaries, and prospects of each occupation. You can also find links to related job offers and training courses.
Xing: This is the largest professional network in Germany. It allows you to create a profile, showcase your skills and achievements, connect with other professionals and employers, and browse through thousands of job ads.
Glassdoor: This is a global platform that offers insights into companies, salaries, interviews, and reviews from employees and former employees. You can also search for jobs by keyword, location, company, and industry.
Berlin Startup Jobs: This is a niche website that features jobs from startups and tech companies in Berlin. You can find jobs in various fields, such as engineering, design, marketing, sales, and customer service. You can also filter jobs by visa sponsorship, remote work, and language.
There are also many other websites that offer jobs in Germany for expats, such as LinkedIn, Indeed, Monster, StepStone, and Jobware. You can use these sites to narrow down your search by using keywords, filters, and alerts. You can also upload your CV and apply for jobs directly on these platforms.
The Most In-Demand Jobs and Sectors in Germany
As mentioned earlier, there are some jobs and sectors that have a high demand for workers in Germany. These are the ones that you should focus on if you want to increase your chances of getting hired as an expat. Here are some examples of the most in-demand jobs and sectors in Germany:
Health care: Germany has an aging population and a shortage of healthcare professionals. According to a report by the Bertelsmann Foundation, Germany will need an additional 260,000 nurses and 51,000 doctors by 2030. If you have a degree and experience in medicine, nursing, dentistry, or other health-related fields, you will have a lot of opportunities to work in Germany. However, you will also need to have your qualifications recognized by the relevant authorities and learn German to a high level.
IT: Germany is a leader in innovation and technology. It has a strong digital economy and a vibrant startup scene. According to a survey by Bitkom, the digital association of Germany, there were about 137,000 vacant IT positions in Germany in 2022. If you have skills and experience in software development, programming, web design, data analysis, cybersecurity, or other IT-related fields, you will be highly sought after by employers in Germany. You may also be able to find English-speaking jobs in this sector, especially in Berlin.
Engineering: Germany is known for its excellence in engineering and manufacturing. It produces high-quality products and services in various industries, such as automotive, aerospace, chemical, mechanical, electrical, and renewable energy. According to a report by the Association of German Engineers (VDI), there were about 79,000 unfilled engineering positions in Germany in 2019. If you have a degree and experience in engineering or related fields, you will have a competitive edge in the German job market. However, you will also need to have your qualifications recognized by the relevant authorities and learn German to a professional level.
Science: Germany is a hub for scientific research and innovation. It has many prestigious universities and research institutes that conduct cutting-edge studies in various fields, such as biology, chemistry, physics, medicine, and biotechnology. According to a report by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD), Germany was the third most popular destination for international researchers in 2018. If you have a degree and experience in science or related fields, you will have many opportunities to work in Germany as an expat. You may also be able to find English-speaking jobs in this sector, especially in academia.
Teaching: Germany has a high demand for teachers, especially for English and STEM subjects. According to a report by the Standing Conference of the Ministers of Education and Cultural Affairs of the Länder (KMK), Germany will need an additional 26,000 teachers by 2025. Deutsche Welle covers this topic in depth in this article. If you have a degree and experience in teaching or related fields, you will have a good chance of finding a job in Germany as an expat. However, you will also need to have your qualifications recognized by the relevant authorities and learn German to a high level. You may also need to complete additional training or exams to teach in public schools.
These are just some examples of the most in-demand jobs and sectors in Germany. There are also many other fields that offer opportunities for expats who want to work in Germany, such as tourism, hospitality, finance, marketing, sales, and customer service. However, you will need to do your research and tailor your job search according to your skills, qualifications, and interests.
The Qualifications and Language Skills You Need to Work in Germany
One of the most important factors that will determine your chances of finding a job in Germany as an expat is your level of qualification and language proficiency.
In general, the higher your qualification and the better your language skills are, the easier it will be for you to get hired.
Here are some tips on how to improve your qualifications and language skills for working in Germany:
Have your foreign qualifications recognized: If you have a degree or vocational qualification from another country, you may need to have it recognized by the relevant authorities in order to work in Germany. This is especially important if you want to work in regulated professions such as health care, engineering, teaching, or law. You can check if your qualification is recognized in Germany by using the Recognition Finder or contacting the Central Office for Foreign Education. You may also need to provide proof of your academic transcripts, certificates, diplomas, and translations. Depending on your qualification and profession, you may need to take additional tests or courses to meet the German standards.
Learn German: Although there are some jobs that do not require German skills, such as in IT or tourism, most employers in Germany prefer candidates who can speak and understand German. Learning German will not only improve your chances of finding a job, but also help you integrate into the society and culture of Germany. You can learn German by taking courses at a language school, online platform, or university. You can also practice your German by watching TV shows, listening to podcasts, reading books, or joining a language exchange group. To prove your level of German proficiency, you may need to take a standardized test such as the TestDaF or the Goethe-Zertifikat. The level of German you need depends on the job and sector you are applying for. Generally, you will need at least a B1 level for most jobs, and a C1 level for regulated professions.
Improve your English: Although German is the official language of Germany, English is also widely spoken and understood by many people, especially in the business and academic sectors. Having a good command of English will give you an advantage in the global market and help you communicate with international colleagues and clients. You can improve your English by taking courses at a language school, online platform, or university. You can also practice your English by watching TV shows, listening to podcasts, reading books, or joining a language exchange group. To prove your level of English proficiency, you may need to take a standardized test such as the IELTS or the TOEFL. The level of English you need depends on the job and sector you are applying for. Generally, you will need at least a B2 level for most jobs, and a C1 level for jobs that require a high degree of communication and negotiation.
Update your CV and cover letter: Your CV and cover letter are the first impressions that employers will have of you. Therefore, you need to make sure that they are clear, concise, and professional. You also need to adapt them to the German standards and expectations. Here are some tips on how to write a CV and cover letter for working in Germany:
Use a chronological format: Your CV should list your education and work experience in reverse chronological order, starting with the most recent ones. You should also include your personal details (name, address, phone number, email), professional profile (a short summary of your skills and goals), skills (languages, computer programs, etc.), and hobbies (optional).
Keep it short: Your CV should not be longer than two pages. You should only include relevant information that matches the job description and requirements. You should also use bullet points and headings to make it easy to read.
Be honest: You should not lie or exaggerate about your qualifications or achievements on your CV. You should be able to provide evidence and references for everything you claim on your CV.
Use a formal tone: Your cover letter should be written in a formal and polite tone. You should address the employer by their name and title (if known), or use “Sehr geehrte Damen und Herren” (Dear Sir/Madam) if not. You should also use “Sie” (formal you) instead of “du” (informal you) when addressing the employer.
Explain your motivation: Your cover letter should explain why you are interested in working for the company and in Germany. You should also highlight your relevant skills and achievements that make you a suitable candidate for the job. You should also mention how you can contribute to the company’s goals and vision.
End with a call to action: Your cover letter should end with a call to action that invites the employer to contact you for an interview or further discussion. You should also thank them for their time and consideration.
Prepare for the German job interview: If you are invited for an interview, you need to prepare yourself well to impress the employer and show them that you are the right person for the job. Here are some tips on how to prepare for an interview for working in Germany:
Research the company: You should research the company’s history, mission, values, products, services, and culture. You should also find out who will be interviewing you and what their role is. You should also prepare some questions to ask the employer about the company and the job.
Dress appropriately: You should dress professionally and according to the dress code of the company and the sector. You should avoid wearing anything too casual, flashy, or revealing. You should also pay attention to your grooming and hygiene.
Arrive on time: You should arrive at the interview location at least 10 minutes before the scheduled time. You should also check the traffic and public transportation beforehand to avoid any delays or problems. You should also have a copy of your CV, cover letter, and certificates with you.
Be confident and polite: You should greet the interviewer with a firm handshake and a smile. You should also maintain eye contact and a positive body language throughout the interview. You should also be respectful and courteous to everyone you meet at the company.
Answer the questions: You should answer the questions clearly, concisely, and honestly. You should also use examples and evidence to support your answers. You should also avoid interrupting or arguing with the interviewer. You should also avoid talking about negative topics such as politics, religion, or personal problems.
Follow up: You should send a thank you email or letter to the interviewer within 24 hours after the interview. You should also restate your interest and enthusiasm for the job and the company. You should also ask for feedback or next steps in the hiring process.
The Types of Work Visas and Permits for Germany
If you are not a citizen of the EU, EEA, or Switzerland, you will need a work visa and permit to work in Germany. The type of work visa and permit you need depends on your nationality, qualification, and occupation. Here are some of the main types of work visas and permits for Germany:
Job seeker visa: This is a visa that allows you to enter Germany and look for a job for up to six months. You cannot work with this visa, but you can attend interviews and network with potential employers. To apply for this visa, you need to have a recognized university degree or equivalent qualification, proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay, health insurance, and proof of German or English language skills. You also need to have a concrete plan of how you will find a job in Germany. If you find a job within six months, you can apply for a work permit from within Germany. If not, you have to leave the country and apply for another visa from your home country.
EU Blue Card: This is a work permit that allows highly qualified non-EU citizens to work and live in Germany and other EU countries. To qualify for this permit, you need to have a recognized university degree or equivalent qualification, a valid work contract or job offer in Germany with a minimum annual salary of €56,800 (or €44,304 for shortage occupations), health insurance, and proof of German or English language skills. You can apply for this permit from within Germany if you have a job seeker visa or another valid residence permit, or from your home country if not. This permit is valid for up to four years, or for the duration of your work contract plus three months. You can also bring your spouse and children with you, and they can work and study in Germany without restrictions. After 33 months (or 21 months if you have a B1 level of German), you can apply for permanent residence in Germany.
Skilled worker visa: This is a work permit that allows qualified non-EU citizens to work in Germany in occupations that require vocational training or experience. To qualify for this permit, you need to have a recognized vocational qualification or equivalent experience, a valid work contract or job offer in Germany with an appropriate salary, health insurance, and proof of German language skills (at least A1 level). You can apply for this permit from within Germany if you have a job seeker visa or another valid residence permit, or from your home country if not. This permit is valid for up to four years, or for the duration of your work contract plus three months. You can also bring your spouse and children with you, but they may need to meet certain requirements to work and study in Germany. After four years, you can apply for permanent residence in Germany.
Freelance visa: This is a work permit that allows self-employed non-EU citizens to work in Germany as freelancers or entrepreneurs. To qualify for this permit, you need to have a relevant professional qualification or experience, a viable business plan or portfolio of clients, proof of sufficient funds to cover your start-up costs and living expenses, health insurance, and proof of German or English language skills. You can apply for this permit from within Germany if you have another valid residence permit that allows freelance work, or from your home country if not. This permit is valid for up to three years, and can be extended if your business is successful. You can also bring your spouse and children with you, but they may need to meet certain requirements to work and study in Germany.
To apply for any of these visas or permits, you need to contact the German embassy or consulate in your home country and submit the required documents and fees. You may also need to attend an interview or provide biometric data as part of the application process. You should apply as early as possible to avoid any delays or complications.
The Application Process and Documents You Need to Work in Germany
Once you have found a job offer or contract in Germany and obtained the appropriate work visa or permit, you need to complete some additional steps and documents to start working in Germany. These include:
Registering your address: When you arrive in Germany, you need to register your address with the local registration office (Einwohnermeldeamt) within two weeks. You need to bring your passport, visa, work contract, rental contract, and a registration form (Anmeldeformular) with you. You will receive a registration certificate (Anmeldebestätigung) that proves your residence in Germany. You will need this certificate for various purposes, such as opening a bank account, applying for a tax number, or getting a health insurance card.
Applying for a tax number: To pay taxes in Germany, you need to have a tax number (Steueridentifikationsnummer) that identifies you as a taxpayer. You can apply for this number at the local tax office (Finanzamt) after registering your address. You need to bring your passport, visa, work contract, and registration certificate with you. You will receive your tax number by mail within a few weeks. You will need this number to file your tax returns, receive your tax refunds, or claim any tax benefits in Germany.
Applying for a social security number: To contribute to the social security system in Germany, you need to have a social security number (Sozialversicherungsnummer) that identifies you as a social security member. You can apply for this number at the local social security office (Deutsche Rentenversicherung) after registering your address. You need to bring your passport, visa, work contract, and registration certificate with you. You will receive your social security number by mail within a few weeks. You will need this number to pay your social security contributions, receive your social security benefits, or claim any social security rights in Germany.
Opening a bank account: To receive your salary and pay your bills in Germany, you need to have a bank account (Girokonto) at a German bank or financial institution. You can open a bank account at any branch or online after registering your address. You need to bring your passport, visa, work contract, registration certificate, and tax number with you. You will receive your bank card (Girocard) and PIN (Persönliche Identifikationsnummer) by mail within a few days. You will need this card and PIN to withdraw money, make payments, or transfer funds in Germany.
Getting a health insurance card: To access the health care system in Germany, you need to have a health insurance card (Gesundheitskarte) that proves your health insurance coverage. You can get a health insurance card from your health insurance provider (Krankenkasse) after registering your address and social security number. You need to bring your passport, visa, work contract, registration certificate, social security number, and tax number with you. You will receive your health insurance card by mail within a few weeks. You will need this card to visit a doctor, get a prescription, or receive any medical treatment in Germany.
These are some of the main steps and documents you need to work in Germany as an expat. There may be other requirements or procedures depending on your specific situation and occupation. You should always check with the relevant authorities or organizations for the latest information and guidance. You should also keep copies of all your documents and certificates for future reference.
The work culture and etiquette in Germany
If you are planning to relocate to Germany for a job, you need to be aware of the work culture and etiquette in this country. Germany is known for its professionalism, efficiency, and punctuality. These traits are reflected in the way Germans work and communicate. In this paragraph, you will learn some of the dos and don’ts of working in Germany.
One of the most important aspects of German work culture is the respect for hierarchy and authority. Germans tend to follow the chain of command and address their superiors by their last name and title. You should avoid being too informal or casual with your boss or colleagues, unless they invite you to do so. You should also avoid interrupting or contradicting your superiors in public, as this can be seen as disrespectful or rude.
Another key aspect of German work culture is the emphasis on planning, organization, and quality. Germans like to have clear goals, deadlines, and procedures for their tasks and projects. They also pay attention to details and accuracy, and expect the same from others. You should be prepared to follow the rules and regulations of your workplace, and to deliver high-quality work on time. You should also be able to justify your decisions and actions with facts and data, as Germans value rationality and logic over emotions or intuition.
Communication in German work culture is direct, honest, and precise. Germans prefer to get straight to the point and avoid ambiguity or vagueness. They also tend to express their opinions and criticisms openly and constructively, without sugarcoating or beating around the bush. You should not take this personally or as a sign of hostility, but rather as a way of improving your performance and solving problems. You should also be ready to communicate clearly and concisely, and to back up your statements with evidence and examples.
Finally, German work culture is also characterized by a strong sense of responsibility and commitment. Germans take their work seriously and dedicate themselves fully to their tasks and duties. They also respect the work-life balance and expect others to do the same. You should not disturb your colleagues or clients outside of working hours, unless it is an emergency or a prior agreement. You should also avoid making personal calls or browsing social media during work hours, as this can be seen as unprofessional or disrespectful.
By following these tips, you can adapt to the work culture and etiquette in Germany more easily and successfully.
The Tax and Social Security System in Germany
If you are planning to relocate to Germany for work, you should familiarize yourself with the tax and social security system in advance. These are some of the main aspects that you need to know:
Income Tax
Germany has a progressive income tax system, which means that the tax rate increases as the income level rises. The income tax rate ranges from 14% to 45%, depending on the taxable income and the marital status of the taxpayer. In addition, there is a solidarity surcharge of 5.5% of the income tax and a church tax of 8% or 9% of the income tax for members of certain religious communities. The employer deducts the income tax from the gross salary and transfers it to the tax office on behalf of the employee. You will need to register with the local tax office and obtain a tax identification number and a tax class.
Social Security
The social security system in Germany consists of four main components: health insurance, pension insurance, unemployment insurance, and long-term care insurance. The contributions to these schemes are generally shared equally between the employer and the employee, with some exceptions for certain groups of workers. The total social security contribution rate is about 40% of the gross salary, but there are upper limits for each component. The social security system provides various benefits and services to the insured persons, such as medical care, retirement pension, unemployment benefits, and long-term care assistance. You will need to choose a health insurance provider and get a social security card with a social security number.
Conclusion
Getting a job in Germany as an expat can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience, but it also requires careful planning and preparation. You need to consider various factors, such as the visa requirements, the job market, the language skills, the cultural differences, the tax and social security system, and the cost of living. You also need to be proactive and flexible in your job search, and use various resources and strategies to find and apply for suitable positions. By following the tips and advice in this guide, you can increase your chances of landing a job in Germany and enjoy the benefits of working and living in one of the most developed and diverse countries in Europe.
