IT & tech · Data Scientist / Machine Learning Engineer
Data scientist / AI engineer
Very high demand✓ Not regulated — recognition optional but useful
Data science and AI roles are booming and not regulated, so you can work without Anerkennung. Prove your degree (or strong experience/portfolio) and come via the EU Blue Card or the Opportunity Card. Many teams operate in English.
- Who recognises it
- None required to work — not regulated. For a visa, have your degree assessed via anabin / ZAB.
- German level
- Many English-only roles; German helps.
- Typical salary
- ≈ €60,000–90,000 gross/year.
- How long it takes
- No recognition needed; degree check takes weeks.
How recognition works
- 1Check your degree in anabin, or get a ZAB Statement of Comparability.
- 2Prepare a portfolio (projects, publications, Kaggle, GitHub).
- 3Apply for an EU Blue Card with an offer, or the Opportunity Card to search.
Documents you'll need
- Degree + transcript (or proof of experience)
- Portfolio / publications
- CV + job offer (for Blue Card)
- Passport
💶 Costs & translations
Recognition fees are typically €100–600. Budget extra for certified German translations of your documents and, in some countries, an apostille/legalisation. Adaptation courses or exams can add further cost.
Your visa routes
Last verified 2026-06-30. Recognition rules vary by federal state and change over time — always confirm with the official portal linked above.