FAQs: Work Visas and Labor Regulations
Germany welcomes international talents. Find out how the country is opening its doors to skilled workers and the rights and obligations they enjoy in Germany.
Open and flexible labor market
Germany has opened up the German labor market – particularly for skilled workers – in recent years. The Skilled Immigration Act currently stipulates the conditions under which qualified professionals from outside the EU can work in Germany.
- Who needs a visa/residence permit?
- What are the conditions for an employee residence permit?
- Is there a fast track for qualified professionals?
- Is there a special residence title for qualified professionals with a university degree?
- Where does a foreign employee apply for a national visa or residence permit?
For detailed information on residence permits for employees or visa in general, please refer to the Visa and Residence Permit for Business in Germany section of our online Investment Guide.
Business-friendly employment models
There are various employment models in Germany that provide expanding companies with flexible, employment solutions - especially in the business start-up phase.
- What employment models are available in Germany?
- How high is the minimum wage in Germany?
- What is the maximum working time allowed?
- What happens if an employee gets sick?
- How is the German statutory social security system organized?
- How high are the social security contributions?
For more details on what employers need to consider once employees have been found please refer to the Employees and Social Security section of our online Investment Guide.
