Recognition

Which nationals need a work permit?

• For all EU citizens, as well as citizens of the EEA and Switzerland, the “freedom of movement for workers” applies in Germany. They do not need a special work permit (authorization to take up employment).
• People from third countries need a permit to work in Germany.

The Skilled Workers Immigration Act (FEG)

The law that allows professionals to officially work in Germany is called the Skilled Workers Immigration Act. It came into force in Germany in 2020 and aims to make it easier for companies in Germany to employ professionals from third countries. Since 2023, the law is based on three pillars:

• The Skilled Workers Pillar
• The Experience Pillar
• The Potential Pillar

The Skilled Workers Pillar remains the central route for the immigration of skilled workers from third countries.

§18 Residence Act – Skilled Workers Immigration

• Specific job offer
• Approval from the Federal Employment Agency
• Possibly professional practice permit
• Equivalence of qualifications

Requirements include, in addition to the recognized qualification, an employment contract as well as equal employment conditions as for nationals.

With a recognized qualification, any third-country national can, in principle, work in any qualified employment in non-regulated professions. That is, skilled workers can generally perform any qualified employment. For example, an office management specialist can also be employed in logistics

We support you with residence permits according to the Residence Act:

• §18a Residence Act – Skilled Workers with Vocational Training
• §18b Residence Act – Skilled Workers with Academic Education (with or without EU Blue Card)

§ 6 Employment Regulation – Employment with professional practical experience:

Non-EU citizens who have at least two years of work experience and have obtained a state-recognized vocational qualification in their home country no longer need formal recognition of their qualification in Germany. However, an employment contract is required. The salary threshold is 45% of the contribution assessment ceiling.

§§20a, 20b Residence Act – Opportunity Card

Non-EU citizens who do not yet have a German employment contract can obtain an Opportunity Card. This is based on a points system. Selection criteria include qualifications, language skills, ties to Germany, and age.