Finding jobs in Germany (2024)

If you are a foreigner looking forjobs in Germany, it can be difficult to know where to start your job hunting, especially if you are restricted to English-speaking jobs. However, if you are well qualified with a degree or vocational qualification, have work experience, and can speak at least some German, you stand a good chance of finding a job in Germany, especially in certain sectors with German worker shortages.

This article explains everything you need to know about finding work in Germany, including the following:

  • Work in Germany
    • The job market in Germany
    • Job vacancies in Germany
    • Job salaries in Germany
    • Work culture in Germany
    • Labor laws and labor rights in Germany
  • How to find jobs in Germany
    • Expatica jobs
    • EURES
    • Public German job sites
    • Job websites in Germany
    • Recruitment agencies in Germany
    • Teaching English in Germany
    • German jobs in newspapers
    • Company websites
    • Embassies and consulates
    • Networking
    • Speculative job applications
  • Self-employment and freelancing in Germany
  • Traineeships, internships, and volunteering in Germany
  • Applying for jobs in Germany
  • Support while looking for jobs in Germany
  • Requirements to work in Germany
    • Work visas in Germany
    • Language requirements to work in Germany
    • Qualifications to work in Germany
    • Tax and social security numbers in Germany
  • Starting a job in Germany
  • Useful resources

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Work in Germany

Germany has the largest economy in Europe and the fifth-largest in the world, so there are plenty of jobs in Germany for foreigners with specialist skills, although casual work is also fairly easy to come by. It is also possible to find English-speaking jobs in Germany, although in most cases even a small amount of German will be required.

The job market in Germany

Germany has one of the lowest unemployment rates in the European Union, measuring at 3.9% in May 2020. This is well below the EU and Eurozone averages at 6.7% and 7.4% respectively. In some parts of southern Germany, such as Bavaria (where you’ll find Munich), the unemployment rate is even lower.

A study by the German Federal Institution for Population Research showed that a third of non-EU migrants in Germany in 2010–2011 found work within 12 months, although this situation has significantly changed following Germany’s refugee influx since 2015 and with the 2020 COVID-19 crisis. However, if you are well qualifiedand have a basic knowledge of German, there are much higher chances of finding a job in Germany, where such qualities are valued.

Finding jobs in Germany (2)

Germany is home to many large global companies and is particularly strong in the automotive sector. Some of the biggest companies in Germany include:

  • Volkswagen (automotive)
  • Daimler (automotive)
  • Allianz (finance)
  • BMW (automotive)
  • Siemens (electronics)
  • Bosch (electronics)
  • Deutsche Telekom (telecommunications)

However, smaller firms and startups are also commonplace. Around 90% of businesses in Germany are SME’s and they account for around two-thirds of all jobs.

Job vacancies in Germany

With low levels of unemployment, Germany is not as affected by skills shortages as some other parts of Europe and there are no nationwide skills shortages. However, skilled workers in science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) and health occupations are in short supply, particularly in southern and eastern Germany.

According to July 2020 statistics, there are currently just over 573,000 job vacancies in Germany. This has reduced from nearly 800,000 a year ago. Vacancies include skilled professions as well as casual work in areas such as English teaching and hospitality.

Job salaries in Germany

The minimum wage in Germany is set each year. As of January 2020, it stands at €9.35 an hour, which currently places it fifth among EU countries.

Average monthly earnings in Germany are €4,021; however, this varies across sectors, regions, and gender. The gender pay gap is 21% as of 2018.

Read more in our guide to average salaries in Germany.

Work culture in Germany

German business cultureis traditionally hierarchical, with strong management. Germans work on carefully planned tasks and make decisions based on hard facts. Meetings are orderly and efficient and follow a strict agenda and schedule, where discussions have the aim of reaching compliance and a final decision.

Time is a well-defined concept when it comes to work in Germany. Because of this, people are very punctual, and you should be too in any professional environment.

Labor laws and labor rights in Germany

The average working week in Germany is around 40 hours per week, although the maximum working week is 48 hours. An employee can work up to 10 hours a day if the average hours per day doesn’t exceed eight over a 24-week period.

The minimum annual statutory holiday entitlement in Germany is 20 days per year. German workers also get other benefits such as sick pay and maternity pay. Most work, both full-time and part-time, will be regulated by an employment contract. However, you should carefully check the finer details of any contract before signing as some employers try to include clauses that are heavily in their favor.

Notice periods for the employer terminating a contract in Germany usually start at two weeks during the probation period, increasing to four weeks for most standard contracts. For long-term workers, notice periods can be much longer (for example, up to seven months in some cases for those who have given over 20 years of service).

Read more in our guide to German labor law.

How to find jobs in Germany

Expatica jobs

For expat-focused and English-speaking jobs in Germany, check outExpatica jobs. There is a constantly updated selection of jobs for both English speakers and speakers of other languages, in a range of different sectors.

EURES

If you’re from the EU, EEA, or Switzerland, you canlook for a job in Germany through theEURES (European Employment Services) website.EURESis a job portal network that is part of the European Commission and aims to aid free movement within the EEA. As well as looking for work, you can upload your CV and get advice on the legal and administrative issues involved in working in Germany.EURES holds job fairs in spring and autumn.

Public German job sites

The Federal Employment Agency (Bundesagentur für Arbeit, BA), the largest provider of labor market services in Germany, has a network of over 700 agencies and offices around the country. Its International Placement Service (ZAV) has information about work opportunities, including casual work. You can also post your profile on their job portal – as well as your qualifications and career highlights, you can say what kind of post you’re looking for within which type of company.

Find their job listingshereor check the Agency’spagefor skilled workers in shortage occupation jobs.

Job websites in Germany

Jobs in Germany are often advertised on German job and recruitment websites (Jobbörsen), with some specializing in certain industries or focused on jobs in Germany for foreigners.

General

English-speaking jobs in Germany

Specialist

Recruitment agencies in Germany

Look in theGerman Yellow Pages(Gelbe Seiten) underArbeitsvermittlungfor agencies.They’ll be reputable if they are members of theFederal Employer’s Association of Personnel Service ProvidersorBundesarbeitgeberverband der Personaldienstleister(BAP).

Finding jobs in Germany (4)

Before you sign on, check whether a company that will look for a job on your behalf will charge you a fee for doing so; some may ask for a hefty fee of up to €2,000. You will find several international recruitment agencies operating in Germany, many that which list specialist jobs for foreigners.

Teaching English in Germany

There are lots of opportunities for native English speakers to teach English in Germany: school children, older students in language schools, private tutoring, as well as teaching professional English to staff of international companies. You’ll need to have a degree and experience as well as a TEFL qualification.

You can look forTEFLjobs (although many online sites list jobs) or checkinternational schools in Germany,language schools in Germany,orGerman universities.

German jobs in newspapers

For highly qualified or academic jobs at national levels, buy copies of the Saturday editions of national newspapers or look online:Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung,Suddeutsche Zeiting(Munich and the south),Die Welt,Handelsblatt(Düsseldorf),Frankfurter Rundshau,BerlinOnline,and Berliner Zeitung.

Company websites

Some international companies will advertise on their company websites in both English and German. Vacancies usually appear underStellenangebote, KarriereorVakanzen.

You can find all companies in Germany via the German government’s company register.

Embassies and consulates

Look out for vacancies at your home country’s embassy or consulate in Germany. However, you will be sure to need a high standard of spoken and written German.

Networking

For many Germans, networking is something done between friends or close colleagues, so while you can try making contacts through professional organizations and conferences, don’t bank on it.

LinkedIn’s Germany Business and Professional Networkhas job adverts. Alternatively,link up with like-minded expats throughMeetupgroups or form your own; you never know who you might meet and where it might lead.

Speculative job applications

It’s totally acceptable to approach German companies with speculative applications, but make sure that you do your homework thoroughly and ensure your qualifications and experience are exactly what the company is looking for.

Self-employment and freelancing in Germany

If you have a viable business idea or are skilled in a trade that is in demand, you can work in Germany as a self-employed individual or a freelancer. The rules for setting up your own German business are broadly similar to finding employment: EU/EFTA citizens are free to start their own business, as are non-EU citizens with German residency or the necessary permit to do so.

There are around 4.7 million self-employed workers in Germany, with an additional 764,000 who do self-employed work as a second job. Altogether they make up around 16.4% of the German workforce.

You can set yourself up as a sole trader/unlimited company or fully register as a limited company and employ yourself as a director. This has its benefits but does mean that you have additional paperwork and corporate tax filing obligations in Germany.

If you’re thinking about starting a creative business, why not level up your skills with a resource such as Skillshare? Not only do they offer courses in artistic subjects, but you can also learn handy tips from other freelancers.

Traineeships, internships, and volunteering in Germany

Find traineeships in the EU for university graduates via theEuropean Commission Traineeships Office (Bureau de Stages), or look for internships and summer placements atAIESEC(for students and recent graduates in the UK) orIAESTE(for students in science, engineering, and applied arts).GlobalplacementandGo Abroadalso advertise internships. Praktikum is a good German site to search for intern opportunities.

You can also work abroad as a volunteer typically in exchange for board, food, insurance, and a small allowance; for those aged between 17 and 30, find volunteer programs up to 12 months atEuropean Voluntary Service (EVS).Concordiais another organization for volunteer opportunities. For holiday volunteering opportunities, check Workaway.

Applying for jobs in Germany

Once you’ve found a job in Germany to apply for, you will need to prepare your application according to German expectations. In Germany, this often means putting together an application file containing your CV, copies of your educational certificates and employer testimonials, and even samples of your work, if appropriate.

You’ll also need to write a cover letter to go with your application file. Plus, if you get through to the interview stage, you’ll need to know what to expect in a German job interview, and what to do – and not to do– during the interview.

We provide details in our guide on how to create aGerman-style CV and tips for job interviews in Germany. It’s also worth trying out online resume builders such as Resume.io to simplify the job application process.

Support while looking for jobs in Germany

Germany has a social security system that includes unemployment benefit that is paid to those out of work. It’s a contributions-based system so you will need to have paid into it while working in order to claim full benefits when out of work. However, funds are available at a lower level for those who haven’t been able to make contributions. You will need to enquire with your local employment office about your entitlements if you haven’t made sufficient contributions.

Finding jobs in Germany (6)

If you want to access training to improve your work skills and career prospects in Germany, you can find suitable courses through the Federal Employment Agency.

See more information about unemployment benefits and other forms of assistance in our guide to German social security.

Requirements to work in Germany

Work visas in Germany

If you are from the European Union (EU) or the European Free Trade Association (EFTA), you don’t need a permit to work in Germany as long as you have a valid passport or ID card, although registering your address is required.

Non-EU/EFTA nationals will need a relevant work visa in order to work in Germany. The process for this will depend on where you are coming from and what job you are coming to do.

Language requirements to work in Germany

While you may find English-speaking jobs in Germany, you’ll need to be able to speak at least some German to get most jobs (even those teaching English). If you speak no German, it’s likely that you’ll be restricted to casual and informal work which is typically lower-paid. Furthermore, it’s unlikely that you would get a professional level job without good language skills.

There are manylanguage schools in Germanyif you need to brush up on your German.

Qualifications to work in Germany

There are around 150 regulated professions in Germany, including teachers, doctors and opticians. If yours is one of them, you’ll need to get your qualification recognized by the relevant German authority or professional association before you can work in Germany. Check out your occupation onRecognition in Germanyand find out how to get it recognized.

Contact the Central Office for Foreign Education (Zentrale Stelle für die Bewertung ausländischer Qualifikationen, ZAB) to get a foreign university degree verified. Countries signed up to theBologna Processwill have their qualifications recognized in Germany.

Tax and social security numbers in Germany

If you work in Germany or are enrolled in public health insurance, you will receive a social insurance number (RNVR). This is a 12-digit number (containing one letter) that is used for social security and state pension services. Anyone who contributes towards German social security should receive the number and it should be listed on your payslips and health insurance documents.

All German residents are also assigned a tax identification number (Steueridentifikationsnummer). This is a different number made up of 11 digits and is used for tax calculation purposes.

Starting a job in Germany

Employment probation periods in Germany are generally three months but can be as long as six months. During this time, the notice period for terminating the job contract will be shorter.

Your employer should enroll you for German health insurance and other German social security benefits as soon as you start work. This includes enrollment for the German state pension and for work-related accident insurance in Germany.

Depending on your employer, you may also be offered the chance to opt in on a company pension to top up your state pension benefit, as well as other in-work benefits.

Useful resources

  • Federal Employment Agency (Bundesagentur für Arbeit) – find jobs and training opportunities as well as information about working in Germany
  • EURES – EU job portal
Finding jobs in Germany (2024)

FAQs

Is it difficult to find jobs in Germany? ›

The ease of getting career opportunities in Germany can vary based on factors like industry, experience, and language skills. Generally, the job market in Germany is competitive, and it may take time to find a suitable job opportunity.

Can a foreigner get a job in Germany? ›

All persons who wish to seek gainful employment in Germany are required to obtain a residence permit in the form of a visa. Where needed, a work permit will be included in the visa issued for this purpose.

How can I found a job in Germany? ›

Make it in Germany job listings
  • BERUFENET. ...
  • EURES. ...
  • Job portals and company websites. ...
  • Talent profile. ...
  • Counselling at the Employment Agency. ...
  • Job fairs. ...
  • Recruitment agencies.

Which jobs are in high demand in Germany? ›

High Demand Jobs in Germany 2023
  • Engineers. Engineers are highly in demand in Germany, especially electrical, mechanical and civil engineers. ...
  • IT and Software Development Jobs. ...
  • Sales and Marketing. ...
  • Finance and Accounting. ...
  • Civil Engineering and Architecture. ...
  • Language and Related Jobs. ...
  • Nursing and Healthcare.
Nov 20, 2023

How much is good salary in Germany? ›

A salary between €64,000 and €70,000 gross a year is considered a good salary in Germany. For a single person, this means roughly €40,000 to €43,000 euros net a year or between €3,300 and €3,600 euros net a month.

Can I get a job in Germany if I don't speak German? ›

In short, finding a job in Germany without speaking German will require you to think strategically about what types of companies to apply to and diversify the ways you learn about and apply to jobs. This path will take a bit more time and effort, but good jobs are out there and they are indeed attainable.

Can I get a job in Germany if I only speak English? ›

While the language barrier can be a challenge, it's important to note that there are plenty of jobs in Germany that do not require German language skills. Many international companies operate in English, and they are always on the lookout for talented professionals who can bring diverse perspectives to their teams.

Can a US citizen get a job in Germany? ›

Apply for a visa

Then you can enter Germany without a visa and remain for up to three months. If you want to work here, however, you will need to apply for a residence permit that allows you to take up gainful employment. Citizens of all other countries require a visa.

Which unskilled jobs are in demand in Germany? ›

visa sponsorship,unskilled jobs in german jobs
  • Production Worker. Hiring multiple candidates. ...
  • RN *TN Visa Sponsorship Opportunity! Med/Surg, ER, Critical Care, Psychiatric Nursing. ...
  • Driver Class 1 City P&D. ...
  • Pest Control Technician. ...
  • RN *TN Visa Sponsorship Opportunity! ...
  • Stand out to employers. ...
  • Manager. ...
  • Housekeeper/Room Attendant.

Is it easy for Americans to get a job in Germany? ›

The low unemployment rate and job opportunities make Germany a desirable place to work in by people around the world – including Americans. Although it is a different work environment and culture (and the language barrier can be tricky), jobs in Germany for Americans are not impossible to find.

What is the average salary in Germany? ›

In April 2022, the average salary of full-time employees in Germany amounted to €24.77 per hour, €4,105 monthly, or €49,260 per year. This is much higher than in much of the rest of Europe. In fact, Germany had the seventh-highest salary in the European Union in 2021.

Can I immigrate to Germany without a job? ›

Can I Move to Germany Without a Job? If you are a non-EU national, you cannot live in Germany longer than three months, unless you are working or studying. However, if you meet the requirements, you can apply for a job-seeker visa which allows you to stay in Germany for up to six months as you look for employment.

What is Germany's most common job? ›

The service sector continues to employ the largest share of workers in Germany, with around 71.12 percent of employees working in the sector in 2021. In recent years, the distribution of workers has slowly shifted away from the industry and agriculture sectors.

What jobs are in shortage in Germany? ›

  • Nursing professionals.
  • Physicians.
  • Engineers.
  • IT specialists.
  • Scientists.
  • Careers in transport.
  • Other professions in demand.

Which jobs pay well in Germany? ›

Medical & Healthcare: Doctors, surgeons, medical practitioners, and pharmacists are few in this category, and they earn the badge of the highest-paying medical jobs in Germany. Other high-demand fields: Pilots, Lawyers, Judges, and Tax advisors are also the highest-paying jobs in Germany.

What are the chances of getting a job in Germany? ›

However, those who have completed their education in Germany and have a good command of the language have higher chances to get high-paying jobs. Germany has the lowest unemployment rate in the EU, with a record low of 5.8 % in March 2017.

Is IT difficult to move to Germany from the US? ›

Fortunately, US citizens can enter Germany for 90 days without needing a visa – this gives you roughly 3 months to apply for roles, attend in-person interviews and land a job, after which you can apply for a Work Visa or EU Blue Card at your local immigration office in Germany.

How long does IT take to find a job in Germany? ›

If you're wondering how long it takes to get a job, the answer is: it varies. If you use notice boards and online portals, and work with advisors to organize your search, a couple of months is a realistic time frame to find work in Germany for foreigners.

Why is unemployment so low in Germany? ›

The labour market has been an important driver of the economy's resilience over the last few years, said Carsten Brzeski, global head of macro at ING. "A combination of fiscal stimulus, furlough schemes and demographic change seems to have made the German labour market almost invincible," Brzeski said.

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