A complete guide to search for jobs in Germany!
Are you looking for jobs in Germany? This blog post is for you!
This article will discuss everything you need to know about the job search process, where to find information, how to apply, what employers look for new employees, and while they review your application.
Let’s start!
Some people dream of working abroad. Others don’t think it’s worth the effort and cost and like to stay back to their existing arrangements where they are currently working and settled.
If there is one thing that we all can agree on, living outside of your country opens up new opportunities and possibilities. While many countries offer higher wages, job guarantees and affordable housing than the home country, each location has challenges, such as new language, climate, culture, cuisine and many more!
Why Germany?
Thousands of people move to Germany from their homelands every year, searching for jobs. The average salary in Germany is higher than in many other European countries. The standard of living is high and you earn well. The German social and health insurance will care for your health and social welfare.
German states have thriving job markets and look for qualified job seekers to fill the positions; therefore, many worldwide searches for work in Germany. That might be why you are also considering Germany.
Here are the guidelines to help you with your questions about Jobs in Germany.
How do I apply for a Work Permit?
As per Germany’s current immigration law, one should apply for a work permit at the German consulate in their home country, not to any office in Germany. In other countries, the sponsoring company applies for a work permit, and then the contracted new team member (the job seeker) applies for a visa to enter the country based on the work permit received.
In Germany, however, you only need a job offer and a contract from an employer to apply for a resident visa to enter Germany and work as per the job offer and contract.
This does not mean the two documents mentioned above will suffice to apply for a residence visa to enter Germany, stay, and work. The applicant must provide all documents related to academic and professional qualifications. These include letters from employers, work experience, passports, etc.
Once the job offer letter and contract are received, you should contact the German consulate to submit your visa application. While waiting to hear from the consulate, keep working on your application for a better presentation. That includes filling out the application form correctly and arranging documents as per the checklist. It is essential to have travel and health insurance valid for three months from the intended arrival date.
After receiving your passport with an entry visa stamped, you may make your travel arrangements.
After arriving in Germany and completing the initial formalities at your workplace, you will be given the complete duration of a residence permit as per the job contract. This is a standard procedure to obtain a resident and work permit in Germany.
The initial formalities include registering your address with the local authorities, opening a local bank account etc.
Are there any particular qualifications or skills required to obtain a job in Germany?
Skilled Immigration Act March 2020 simplifies and makes it easy for everyone to understand the requirements.
A diploma/vocational qualification or a bachelor’s degree from a foreign country meets the minimum qualification for a work permit as per the said Act! Any of these qualifications and the required skills for the particular job will suffice to convince an employer.
A diploma issued in India, for example, with a course duration of only three years, meets the minimum requirement, not an ITI or any other 2-year diploma.
Another requirement, the most important, is German language skills/proficiency. At least one should be at a B2 level to communicate appropriately with colleagues, subordinates, and team leaders.
German Employers will often look for a reference to vouch for them and work experience of a year or two in their occupation.
You can find a job online.
You can search many job sites to find thousands of job opportunities in Germany. Job seeker’s often found many suitable positions on these sites, so it is worth signing up.
Get advice from specialised employment agencies (if you’re already in Germany)
We recommend you contact a German job agency if you have difficulty finding the job you want from these sites. The registered recruitment companies in Germany usually have access to hundreds of jobs.
Adecco and Manpower are examples of such agencies. Randstad is another example.
Many international and local companies recruit through these companies, so it is worth reaching out to them for assistance in your job search.
A language course will help you get into the workplace.
Before you move to Germany, it is recommended that you start learning the German language in your home country. You can enrol at a language learning centre if you are already in Germany. Better communication skills/proficiency in the German language can support you a lot in finding a job in Germany.
Apply for a license to work!
If you are a doctor, dentist or any such health care worker, you will be required to get licensed in Germany, for that will need to get in touch with the relevant professional bodies in the German states and follow the due process.
Be patient
But don’t give up after a couple of tries!
Many German companies have an “internal job market” where employees pass information about open positions to co-workers. This means you have a high chance of finding a job by contacting friends and ex-colleagues at companies you are interested in working for.
Volunteer!-
We recommend volunteering in Germany while waiting for a job. You can find a list of German organisations under “Volunteering” in Germany. Volunteering organisations can provide more information about opportunities available and how to apply for one. That is also an excellent option to add value to your CV with local work experience and exposure.
Research the different types of jobs in Germany
Jobs in customer service and administration, English teaching and engineering are the most sought-after jobs for foreign nationals, especially those with a diploma or degree in a relevant subject.
Do not be afraid to explore Germany and find the right thing for you.
Germany tends to centralise recruitment. This means that employers may have a “headquarter”, a central location, and branches located in different parts of Germany. If you’re looking for work in Munich, you might also consider visiting Stuttgart, Frankfurt, and Karlsruhe.
What is the average salary of an expatriate working in Germany?
The average monthly salary of a skilled worker in Germany (a worker who has a degree) is EUR.3,000 to EU.R4,000/month. The wages offered by the company are comparable to those in France or Spain and provide a quality life.
Can I work in Germany with no contract?
You can work for your employer without contracts. We recommend signing a temporary arrangement, as the European job market constantly changes. You will be able to rely on your “insurance policy” for protection in an unfortunate event. It is essential to ensure that your “insurance policy” covers all you require.
What about overtime? Are people paid more for overtime?
Hourly workers will be paid overtime according to their agreed salary. That applies mainly to those working in the construction industry.
How can you adapt to German culture?
It is essential to understand the German work culture in Germany or before arriving in Germany.
- German employers provide excellent support to new employees. They help the new team members learn the language and address any issues in their knowledge.
- There is no “late for work” in Germany. Employees should arrive at least 10 minutes before the start of their shift. However, it should not be difficult if you’re an experienced worker.
- Third, overtime work must be granted special permission before starting. Employees are expected to follow specific rules (e.g., the minimum duty hours per week is 38-42 per week). Although these rules may seem complex at first, they are necessary for your safety and well being.
Do I need to learn the German language before leaving for Germany there?
Yes, it’s highly recommended, at least the basics. The more German language you know, the chances are better to finding a job in Germany!
