German Work Visa Eligibility: A Guide for HR and Global Mobility Professionals
Understand which work visa categories apply for your international hires – including requirements, timelines, and government authorities involved.
Germany offers several pathways for international professionals to work and live in the country. For HR teams, understanding these visa types and their eligibility criteria is key to successful talent acquisition and relocation planning. Factors such as degree recognition, salary thresholds, and professional background play a crucial role in determining the most appropriate route.
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
Scenario 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 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).
Scenario 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.
Scenario 3 – Vocational Training (No Academic Degree)
Eligible for the Work Visa for Skilled Workers if:
Completed at least 2 years of vocational training
Relevant work experience within the last 5 years
Vocational qualification recognized in Germany or the issuing country
Job offer in a non-regulated profession
Minimum annual salary: €43,470 (2025)
Most cases require Federal Employment Agency approval
🛠️ Recognition of vocational training typically managed by ZAB, IHK, or AHK.
Scenario 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.
HR’s Role in the Visa Process
Confirm the employee's eligibility based on salary, degree, and experience
Advise on recognition requirements and timelines
Support document collection and translations
Liaise with relocation providers and legal advisors
Plan 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.