Legal requirements
It is relatively easy for graduates of German universities to obtain a residence permit to work in Germany. If you are from the European Union or a country in the European Economic Area, you have free access to the German job market.
Job seeker visa
Citizens of other countries can extend their residence permit for up to 18 months after completing their studies with a job seeker visa in order to find a job. The 18 months begin as soon as the final exam results are available. During the 18 months, you must prove that you are financially able to support yourself and that you are looking for a job that matches your qualifications – a job as a courier driver, for example, which does not require any training, does not count. If your job search is successful during this period, you can stay in Germany and obtain a residence permit for the purpose of gainful employment.
Permanent right of residence
A settlement permit, i.e. an unlimited right of residence, can be issued after only two years. If all requirements, such as good German language skills, are met, there is a right to naturalization after eight years. The time spent studying in Germany is taken into account in most federal states.
EU Blue Card
Highly qualified citizens of a non-EU country who wish to live and work in Germany or another EU country can apply for an EU Blue Card. The requirements are a recognized university degree and an employment contract with a sufficient annual salary (read more about the requirements). The EU Blue Card is a temporary residence permit and is usually issued for a period of four years. If the employment contract is for less than four years, it is issued for the duration of the employment contract plus three months.
Tips for finding a job
Internships and working student jobs
Gain practical experience during your studies through internships or working student jobs. This will not only enhance your professional skills, but will also give you an insight into the working culture and requirements of the German job market.
Think outside the box
Don't just look for jobs that match your degree exactly; broaden your search to include related fields. Many employers are looking for people with specific skills, not a specific degree.
Search in Bremen
Did you know that Bremen is one of the top ten business locations in Germany? It is home to many companies and institutions in the aerospace, maritime and logistics, wind energy, creative and cultural industries, automotive, food and beverage, and digitalization sectors. So when you're looking for a job, don't just consider the big German cities like Berlin, Cologne or Munich.
Small and medium-sized businesses
Small and medium-sized businesses play an important role in the German economy. There are around 3.2 million of them and they account for 56 percent of all jobs in Germany (source: Federal Statistical Office 2023). Increase your job opportunities by not only focusing on the large, international companies when looking for a job.
MINT careers
There is a shortage of highly skilled professionals in Germany. According to the German Institute for Economic Research, workers in the so-called MINT professions (mathematics, information technology, natural sciences and technology) are particularly in demand. Your job prospects are therefore particularly good in these sectors.
Networking
Use events, job fairs, and online platforms to network. Join job-related groups and forums to gain insight into the world of work and meet potential employers.
German language skills
Although more and more companies in Germany - especially large ones - are using English as their working language, a good knowledge of German is often a decisive advantage. Improve your language skills to strengthen your ability to communicate and improve your chances in the job market.
Adapt your application documents
Adapt your application documents to German standards. Make sure your resume is organized, includes a professional photo, and is written in a clear, concise style. Emphasize your experience and qualifications that are relevant to the German job market.
HSB Career Service
Many German universities, including Hochschule Bremen, of which IGC is a part, offer career planning and job placement services for international students. Take advantage of the HSB Career Service to get information on career events, job fairs, and company contacts. The HSB Career Service team is happy to help you, organizes regular workshops and also assists you in preparing your application documents.
Pradeepkumar Vanniar from India, MBA graduate in European/Asian Management from IGC, talks about his career start in Germany:
