Explore visas & immigration pathways

For non-EU professionals in a shortage occupation, recent graduates, or qualifying IT specialists, at the reduced 2026 salary threshold.

For non-EU professionals with a recognized university degree and a qualifying job offer, at the general 2026 salary threshold.

For the non-EU minor child of a sponsor with a qualifying German residence status to join them in Germany.

For the non-EU spouse of a German citizen to join them in Germany.

For the non-EU spouse of a third-country national holding a valid German residence permit to join them in Germany.

For non-EU freelancers (Freiberufler) or self-employed founders (Selbständige) with a genuine German business case.

For managers, specialists, or trainees transferring within the same corporate group to a German branch.

For non-EU nationals to attend an intensive German language course for up to 12 months.

A 1-year job-seeker residence permit, scored on a 6-point grid covering qualification, experience, language, and age.

For graduates of a German higher education institution to stay up to 18 months to find skilled employment.

For non-EU professionals with a university degree and a matching job offer paid at the customary local wage.

For non-EU professionals with a recognized vocational qualification and a matching job offer paid at the customary local wage.

For non-EU students admitted to a German higher education institution.

For non-EU nationals to complete a state-recognized dual vocational training program (Ausbildung) in Germany.

For young citizens of Germany's ten standard Working Holiday Programme partner countries to live and work in Germany for up to 12 months.

For young Korean citizens to live and work in Germany for up to 12 months, at Korea's own confirmed wider age bracket.