Germany

Introduction

Germany is the largest economy in the European Union. As the country struggles with unemployment, access to the German labor market for non-EU/EEA citizens is somewhat restricted.

Living and Working in Germany

For EU/EEA citizens, living and working in Germany is generally not a problem, unless they are nationals of one of the newer European Union states (the so-called A8+2 nations) that joined in 2004 and 2007. Members of these countries will be treated on par with third country nationals until the transitional arrangements for A8+2 countries in regard to Germany's labor market expire. However, there are some exceptions to this rule for certain occupations (see below).

EU/EEA Citizens

Nationals of the EU/EEA (except for A8+2 citizens) are only required to register with the local authorities ("Einwohnermeldeamt") when taking up residence in Germany for longer than three months.

For A8+2 nations, registration with the local authorities ("Einwohnermeldeamt") plus a work permit from the labor office ("Arbeitsagentur") is required.

Some exceptions exist for A8+2 nationals. Those who are taking up employment as a mechanical or electrical engineers may find easier access to the German labor market as these occupations are experiencing a labor shortage.

Non-EU/EEA Citizens

Third country nationals are required to have a residence permit as well as a work permit to live and work in Germany.

For citizens of Australia, Israel, Japan, Canada, South Korea and the USA, these may be applied for within Germany as visas are not required for entry into the country. All other non-EU/EEA countries must apply for a residence permit and work permit along with their visa at a German embassy in their country of residence.