Germany visa guides

Work, study and business routes into Germany, checked against the official Make it in Germany portal.

Latest check: 31 October 2026

Work visas

EU Blue Card (Germany)

The main Germany work permit for graduates with a job offer that meets a salary threshold. It can lead to permanent residence in as little as 21 to 27 months.

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Work visa for qualified professionals (Germany)

For people with a recognised vocational or university qualification and a qualified job offer in Germany. It covers many jobs the Blue Card does not.

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Staying to work after you graduate (Germany)

Non-EU graduates of German universities can stay up to 18 months to find a qualified job, working any job in the meantime.

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Study visas

Student visa (Germany)

What non-EU students need to study at a German university: admission, 11,904 euros in a blocked account, health insurance and a residence permit after arrival.

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Permanent residence

Opportunity Card (Chancenkarte, Germany)

A one-year Germany permit that lets you come and look for work without a job offer, if you reach 6 points or hold a fully recognised qualification.

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Business and investor visas

Self-employment and freelance visa (Germany)

A residence permit for people who want to start a business or work as a freelancer in Germany, issued for up to three years.

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Official source

Make it in Germany (German Federal Government) and the Federal Foreign Office. Always confirm the latest rules here before you apply.

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These guides are general information, not legal advice. Rules change, so confirm on the official website before you apply.