The German Visa: Visa Requirements, Reforms, and All Visa Types

While international professionals from certain countries can enter without a visa, others must apply for a visa before entering Germany. This article provides an overview of visa requirements by country of origin, presents the most important changes through the reformed immigration law, and shows why choosing the right visa is crucial for successful entry.

Visa requirements: Who needs a visa?

Different regulations regarding visa requirements apply for entry to Germany depending on the country of origin. Nationals of EU member states do not require a visa for entry to Germany. Nationals of several other countries – such as Switzerland, the US, Canada, Australia, or Japan – are also exempt form visa requirements for short-term stays. These individuals can enter without a visa for up to 90 days and apply for a residence permit on-site.

However, nationals of many other countries are subject to visa requirements. The Federal Foreign Office provides a complete and current list showing which nationals are required to obtain a visa for entry to Germany and which are not.

New perspectives through the reformed immigration law

Germany has fundamentally modernized its immigration law in recent years. The original Skilled Immigration Act came into force in 2020. A comprehensive reform followed in 2023, with full implementation in March 2024.

Objective of the reform: To significantly facilitate access to the German labor market for qualified professionals from abroad. The application process was simplified, bureaucratic hurdles reduced, and legal requirements adjusted.

Background of the reform: According to the forecast of the Institute for Employment Research (IAB), Germany requires approximately 400,00 additional skilled workers annually to counteract demographic change and the growing number of requirements. Personnel are particularly lacking in healthcare, technology, and the service sector.

The most important improvements through the reform

• No more priority review: Previously, before hiring a foreign professional, it had to be verified whether a comparably qualified person from Germany was available for the position. This review is now eliminated.
• More professional flexibility: Qualified professionals can now work not only in their learned profession but also in related or non-regulated professions – provided their qualification is recognized or partially recognized.
• Quicker path to permanent residency: Qualified professionals can now apply for the so-called settlement permit after four years instead of five years.

Advantages for healthcare professionals

The visa for recognition (§16d) now allows a stay of up to two years with the possibility of a one-year extension. During this time, up to 20 hours per week of work outside the healthcare sector is permitted – an important means of financial support during the recognition phase. As a new immigration program, the Opportunity Card was introduced, through which professionals can come to Germany even without already having an employment contract.

Overview of relevant visa types

Finding the right visa and submitting the application correctly is crucial for successful entry into Germany. Depending on the purpose of stay, different visa types are available. The visa purpose must match the planned stay exactly. Those who apply for a visa with the wrong purpose risk rejection and must start the entire application process from scratch. The following visa types are available for entry into Germany:

Schengen visa (§6)

The Schengen visa is suitable for tourist purposes and short stays of up to 90 days within 180 days. An extension is not possible and employment is not permitted with this visa. Detailed information on the Schengen visa can be found here.

Visa for studies and student applicant visa (§§16b,17)

This visa is aimed at people who want to complete university studies in Germany or fist search for a study place. It allows residence for the duration of studies and permits employment to a limited extent. Detailed information on the student visa can be found here.

Language course visa according (§16f)

The language course visa enables attendance of an intensive German course for up to one year with the possibility of extension. Prerequisites include an enrollment in a German course with at least 18 hours per week. Detailed information on the language course visa can be found here.

Visa for recognition of foreign professional qualifications (§16d)

The recognition visa is specifically designed for healthcare professionals who are seeking professional recognition in Germany. A prerequisite is a decision from a German recognition authority. The duration of stay is up to two years with the possibility of extension. Detailed information on the recognition visa can be found here.

Visa for employment (§§18a,18b)

This visa is aimed at professionals with recognized professional qualifications and a concrete employment contract. It authorizes immediate commencement of employment in the learned profession and sets the basis for long-term professional integration. Detailed information on the employment visa can be found here.

Opportunity Card (§§20a,20b)

The Opportunity Card enables entry for job search without a concrete job offer. A points system determines eligibility based on qualifications, language skills, professional experience, and age. A minimum of six points is required. The Opportunity Card is valid for up to one year. Detailed information on the Opportunity Card can be found here.

Visa for family reunification (§27)

The visa for family reunification enables family members of persons living in Germany to enter and reside together. Prerequisites include sufficient living space and secured livelihood of the person living in Germany, among others. Detailed information on the visa for family reunification can be found here.

Support in choosing the right visa

Finding the right visa can be challenging. Our overview table outlines the main German visa options available for international professionals. It provides a quick overview of each visa’s purpose, duration, and requirements, making it easier to decide which visa suits your situation best.

To the table

The path to the right visa

Choosing the right visa is crucial for a successful start in Germany. The topic area “the German Visa” serves as a step-by-step guide through the entire process – from selecting the right visa type through the application process to successfully obtaining the visa. Detailed information on individual visa types, practical tips for preparation, and important details on required documents such as proof of financing and health insurance are compiled here.