Coming to Germany
Which route to Germany is right for you?
There's more than one way in. Compare the main routes below, then open the one that fits, or take the visa checker for a first recommendation.
Not sure? Take the visa checker →Ausbildung (dual training)
Earn while you train: no tuition, and a monthly training wage.
- Best for:
- People starting or changing careers who prefer practical training
- Time:
- Usually 2 to 3.5 years of training
Opportunity Card
Come and job-hunt on the ground, before you have an offer.
- Best for:
- Skilled people who want to search for work in Germany
- Time:
- Up to 12 months to find a job
EU Blue Card
The fast track for qualified professionals with a job offer above the salary threshold.
- Best for:
- University graduates with a job offer above the salary threshold
- Time:
- Processing depends on the application and authority
Study in Germany
A respected, mostly tuition-free degree, with up to 18 months to find work afterwards.
- Best for:
- Those who want a German degree first
- Time:
- Degree + 18 months post-study search
Recognition + skilled worker
Already qualified? Get recognised and come as a skilled worker.
- Best for:
- Trained/experienced professionals (nurses, trades, health…)
- Time:
- 3–12 months for recognition
At a glance
| Route | 🛠️ Ausbildung (dual training) | 🎯 Opportunity Card | 💼 EU Blue Card | 🎓 Study in Germany | 📜 Recognition + skilled worker |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best for | People starting or changing careers who prefer practical training | Skilled people who want to search for work in Germany | University graduates with a job offer above the salary threshold | Those who want a German degree first | Trained/experienced professionals (nurses, trades, health…) |
| Job offer needed? | Training contract required | Not needed | Yes, meeting the salary threshold | No | Often needed (or a recognition partnership) |
| Qualification | School-leaving certificate | Degree or 2-year vocational qualification | University degree (or IT experience) | School-leaving qualification (APS for some countries) | A foreign qualification to be recognised |
| German level | B1–B2 | Points route: A1 German or B2 English; no language proof with full recognition | Not required (B1 speeds up PR) | Language proof accepted by the programme | B1–B2 (higher for health professions) |
| Cost | Training allowance varies; budget for preparation and living costs | Proof of funds for your stay | — | Mostly tuition-free + blocked account | €100–600 + certified translations |
| Time | Usually 2 to 3.5 years of training | Up to 12 months to find a job | Processing depends on the application and authority | Degree + 18 months post-study search | 3–12 months for recognition |
| Leads to | Work permit → permanent residence | Work permit / EU Blue Card | Permanent-residence application after 21–27 months if conditions are met | Work permit / EU Blue Card | Skilled worker visa → permanent residence |
Once you're in Germany: Whichever route you take, you'll need an Anmeldung, a bank account, health insurance and a tax ID after you arrive. Our city guides walk you through each, and the free TiG Pilot extension explains and fills the German forms on supported sites. See the settling-in guides →
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