How to relocate employees internationally to Germany
Relocating international employees to Germany involves understanding which work visa category best suits each candidate. Germany offers several visa options for foreign professionals, with eligibility depending on factors such as recognized qualifications, salary thresholds, and relevant work experience.
Key visa types include the EU Blue Card, Skilled Worker Visa, and others, each with specific requirements and approval processes.
relokate is here to help. We take over the entire relocation process on your behalf—from assessing visa eligibility to handling documentation, liaising with authorities, and managing timelines. With Relokate, HR teams can focus on talent strategy while we ensure a smooth, compliant transition for your international hires into Germany.
Main Work Visa Categories
Several visa options are available for skilled workers, each with its own requirements. The most commonly used categories include:
Each option depends on the applicant’s qualifications, type of employment, and annual gross salary.
Key Eligibility Scenarios for HR to Consider
When planning international employee relocations to Germany, it's important to recognize that there is no one-size-fits-all visa solution. The right pathway depends heavily on each employee’s individual profile, including their job role, educational background, professional experience, and salary level.
Option 1 – Recognized University Degree
With a Job Offer and:
Annual Salary ≥ €48,300 (2025):
Eligible for EU Blue Card
Simplified process; no approval from the Federal Employment Agency required
Annual Salary between €43,759.80 and €48,299.99:
Blue Card is possible only for professionals in shortage occupations (e.g., IT, STEM)
Requires approval from the Federal Employment Agency (BA)
Below Salary Thresholds:
May apply for Work Visa for Qualified Professionals instead
💡 Use Anabin to verify degree recognition in Germany (see our degree recognition guide).
Option 2 – Degree Not Recognized or No Degree
Eligible for the IT Specialist Visa with:
3+ years of recent professional experience in IT (within the last 7 years)
Demonstrated technical knowledge (via training, certifications, or references)
Job offer in the IT sector
Minimum salary: €43,759.80 (2025)
This visa is particularly relevant for self-taught tech talent or those with non-academic IT training.
Option 3 – Vocational Training (No Academic Degree)
Eligible for the Work Visa for Skilled Workers if:
Completed at least 2 years of vocational training
Vocational qualification recognized in Germany or the issuing country
Relevant work experience within the last 5 years
Job offer in a non-regulated profession
Minimum annual salary: €43,470 (2025)
Most cases require Federal Employment Agency approval
🛠️ Recognition of vocational training is typically managed by ZAB, IHK, or AHK.
Option 4 – Vocational Training (No Academic Degree)
Under certain conditions, a Work Visa for Experienced Professionals may apply:
5+ years of relevant professional experience (ideally within 7 years)
Job offer in a non-regulated profession
Salary must meet German industry standards (no exploitative contracts)
Proof of skills via references, employment certificates, or CV
Requires Federal Employment Agency assessment
⚠️ This route requires more documentation and is often scrutinized more closely.
First Step in the Visa Process
Confirming the employee's eligibility based on salary, degree, and experience
Advising on recognition requirements and timelines
Supporting document collection and translations
Liaising with relocation providers
Planning family accompaniment if applicable
📝 Early assessment saves time and reduces stress during onboarding.
How relokate Supports Employers and Talent
We work directly with HR teams and international professionals to:
Evaluate the best work permit option for each case
Prepare and submit complete application packages
Navigate the Anabin/recognition process
Coordinate with German authorities
Provide family relocation guidance
Ready to Simplify Your Hiring and Relocation?
Book a call with us or reach out via our contact form to discover how we can streamline your international hiring strategy and ensure compliant, efficient visa outcomes.
Legal Disclaimer: The information provided here and on relokate’s website is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.