IT & tech · Fachinformatiker / Softwareentwickler
IT specialist / software developer
Very high demand✓ Not regulated — recognition optional but useful
IT is one of the easiest high-demand fields to enter: it is NOT a regulated profession, so you don't need formal Anerkennung to work. The main step is proving your degree for a visa — many roles are English-speaking, and the EU Blue Card offers a fast track to permanent residence.
- Who recognises it
- None required to work — IT is not a regulated profession. For a visa, have your degree assessed via anabin / ZAB.
- German level
- Often English-only roles; German helps but isn't always required.
- Typical salary
- ≈ €55,000–85,000 gross/year (higher with seniority).
- How long it takes
- No recognition needed; a degree assessment takes weeks.
How recognition works
- 1Check whether your university/degree is listed in anabin (H+/recognised).
- 2If needed, request a Statement of Comparability from the ZAB.
- 3Apply for an EU Blue Card (with a qualifying job offer) or the Opportunity Card to job-hunt on the ground.
- 4No professional recognition step — start work once your residence permit is issued.
Documents you'll need
- University degree + transcript
- anabin printout or ZAB Statement of Comparability
- CV + portfolio / references
- Job offer / employment contract (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.