Germany has two skilled worker permits. § 18a covers people with a vocational qualification of at least two years' training. § 18b covers people with a university degree. Both need a job offer and a qualification that Germany recognises. If your salary is high enough, compare the EU Blue Card first: it leads to permanent residence faster.
Getting your qualification recognised
Recognition (Anerkennung) is the step that takes longest, so start it before you look for work if you can. Which office decides depends on your qualification.
| Your qualification | Where recognition happens |
|---|---|
| A university degree, non-regulated job | Check anabin. If the degree and university are listed as H+, that is usually enough. If not, apply to the ZAB for a statement of comparability. |
| Regulated professions (doctor, nurse, teacher, lawyer, some engineering titles) | Full recognition by the state authority for that profession, often with a knowledge test or adaptation period |
| Vocational training in commerce or industry | IHK FOSA |
| Vocational training in a craft | The regional Handwerkskammer |
Find the office that recognises your qualification
The federal Recognition Finder asks for your profession and the German city you plan to work in, then names the responsible office. Available in 11 languages.
Go to Anerkennung in DeutschlandApplying
- 1
Get the recognition or comparability decision
The embassy needs to see it with your application.
- 2
Get the job offer
Since March 2024, a § 18b holder can take any qualified job, not only one that matches their degree subject.
- 3
Ask your employer about the fast-track procedure
Under § 81a AufenthG your employer can start the process at the immigration office in Germany. It shortens the visa stage to a few weeks and costs a fee.
- 4
Apply for the visa
Apply through the Consular Services Portal and attend the embassy appointment.
Since March 2024 there is also a route for people with at least two years of professional experience and a qualification recognised in the country where it was earned, if the employer pays above a salary threshold. The Make it in Germany Quick Check tells you whether it applies to you.
Common questions
How long does recognition take?
An anabin check takes minutes. A ZAB statement usually takes a few months, or about 10 working days in the fast-track procedure. Recognition for regulated professions can take longer, especially if you need a test.
Do I need German for the skilled worker visa?
Not for most jobs. Regulated professions such as medicine and nursing require German at a set level.
Sources
Rules and amounts change. Check the official source before you rely on a figure.