Working in Germany: Finding a job as a foreigner

Wondering how to find a job in Germany and what it's like to work there? We'll share all you need to know about the job market and finding a job in Germany.

Bas

6 minute read

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Updated on 25 Nov 2024

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Working

Regardless of where you’re coming from, finding a job in Germany is one of the first steps most internationals will take in the process of moving to Germany. Maybe you need a job offer to kick off the visa process, or maybe you need an income right away once you get to Germany. In any case, the process of applying for, securing a job and working in Germany is going to be different than home. In this guide, we’ll give you all the insights you need to find a job and what it’s like working in Germany as a foreigner.

As an international, you want to know what to expect from working in Europe’s financial hub. There’re plenty of benefits to working in Germany.

1. Strong economy: Germany has the largest economy in Europe and ranks third globally. The country maintains a steady job market with low unemployment rates, around 3%.

2. High salaries: Germany offers competitive salaries, with average gross monthly earnings exceeding €4,000. You can live comfortably in Germany with such a salary, as the cost of living is pretty low (depending on where you live).

3. Skilled workforce: Germany has an excellent workforce of Germans and internationals. Working amongst highly skilled workers will help to enhance your own skills and expertise. Germany offers visas such as the Chancenkarte which aim to bring even more skilled workers to Germany from abroad.

4. Quality education: Germany not only has world-class education and plenty of globally renowned universities, but it also offers incredibly affordable or even free tuition. Germany’s education system is affordable at all levels, making it an excellent place to raise a family or to study abroad.

5. Healthcare: Germany’s healthcare system offers medical care to all of its residents, regardless of their income. You’ll have access to some of the world’s best medical providers without spending all of your savings to do so.

6. Work-life balance: Germans value a healthy work-life balance, with a typical workweek of 35-40 hours. Germany has generous paid leaves and family-friendly policies which ensure you’ll never have to choose work over your personal life.

7. Travel opportunities: Germany’s location in the heart of Europe grants easy access to many neighbouring European countries. Excellent transport connections, such as high-speed trains and well-connected airports, make Germany a great place to establish a base.

8. Job security: Strong labor laws and worker protections ensure job security while living in Germany. Job dismissals in Germany are strictly regulated.

9. Cultural richness: Germany has a rich cultural heritage and plenty of historical landmarks to explore. A huge number of cultures come together in Germany, too, making it a haven of multiculturalism.

10. Career opportunities: Germany is home to many multinational companies, innovative industries, and automotive headquarters. There’re plenty of opportunities for career growth in Germany.

Finding work in Germany as an English speaker may seem daunting, but it’s a lot easier than you might think. Plenty of international companies have offices and headquarters in Germany, and they typically hire English speakers to work in international markets.

Certain sectors will also be more likely to hire English speakers, as the demand for these jobs is high. Industries like IT, engineering, finance and healthcare will often hire internationals. That said, having a second language will always go a long way when applying for jobs. Learning some basic German shows your intention to stay in Germany for a while and a desire to improve your language skills. Learning German also helps you with daily life and can even help you make friends!

Some job portals may not cater as much to non-German speakers, so it’s a good idea to use platforms like The Local and Craigslist that will help you find an English-speaking job in Germany.

Germany's strong economy and industrial sectors offer many opportunities for foreigners looking to work in Germany. However, some industries are experiencing skill shortages and have more in-demand roles than others. Here’re some industries that are in high demand in Germany:

1. Information Technology (IT) and software development: The tech industry in Germany is booming, with a high demand for software developers, IT consultants, data analysts, and cybersecurity experts. Many companies use English as their working language.

2. Engineering: Germany is known for its engineering excellence. Mechanical, electrical, automotive, and civil engineers are needed to support the manufacturing and automotive industries in Germany.

3. Healthcare: The healthcare industry in Germany is currently experiencing a shortage of doctors, nurses and carers. Plenty of internationals move to Germany to work in these industries. However, you may need to speak some German to work in healthcare.

4. Hospitality and tourism: Germany’s tourism industry is thriving and expanding. Across Germany, there’re plenty of jobs available for hotel workers, chefs, servers and tour guides. These jobs are concentrated in major cities and tourist hotspots. Speaking English is usually a great skill here!

5. Logistics: As a central hub in Europe, Germany needs logistics managers, supply chain analysts, and warehouse operators to manage its extensive transport networks.

Focusing on these sectors can increase your chances of finding a job in Germany. Targeting in-demand industries is a great way to secure a job in Germany that will pay well and always keep you employed.

When it comes to finding your dream job, job sites are a great place to start. Here’re some of the most popular job portals in Germany:

1. Social media

• LinkedIn
• Xing

Pro Tip: Reach out to key contacts in your preferred companies on LinkedIn to learn more about your dream job and make a lasting impression!

2. Job sites

• Kununu
• Stepstone
• Indeed
• MeineStellenboersen
• Jobstairs
• Staufenbibel (for internships and entry-level positions)
• Jobware (for management and specialists)
• Academics (for academics and PhDs)

3. English-speaking job websites in Germany

• Craiglist
• The Local
• Top Language Jobs

4. Directly on company websites

If you already have a specific company in mind where you'd like to work, check the company's career pages on its website for job openings.

Ready to apply for a job in Germany? Here's what you need to do:

1. Prepare your CV:

• Make your CV neat and organized, including your name, phone number, email address, and LinkedIn profile.
• Detail your work experience, internships, education, volunteering, scholarships, awards, and skills.
• If you include a photo, make sure it looks professional.
• Tailor your CV to match the job you're applying for, and try to keep it concise, ideally fitting on 2 pages.
• Save it as a PDF file with the name "Surname_Firstname_CV.pdf."

2. Write your letter of application:

• Personalize your cover letter for the specific company and job you're interested in.
• Use a structured format with the date, a clear headline, and 3-4 brief paragraphs highlighting your qualifications for the position.

3. Prepare for your job interview:

• Arrive on time, dress professionally, and aim to be a little early.
• Research the company's background, culture, and products or services.
• Use the STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) method to prepare for competency questions.
• Prepare thoughtful questions to ask the interviewer about the company and the role.

Supercharge your job hunt! Learn how to make a lasting impression and master the art of salary negotiation in Germany with insider tips from a German recruiter:

Here are the key requirements to work in Germany:

1. Work visa and residence permit: Depending on your nationality, you may need a work visa and/or resident permit to work legally in Germany. EU citizens are exempt from this requirement.

2. Diploma recognition: Ensure your diploma is officially recognized if you studied at a non-recognized institution. This is crucial, especially for regulated professions like architects, health professionals, or teachers.

3. Tax identification number: Obtain your tax identification number, a lifelong reference for tax-related matters.

4. Health insurance: Choose a health insurance provider, as it's mandatory in Germany. Your employer will cover half of your health insurance contributions once you find a job.

5. Bank account: Open a German bank account, especially if you're from a country with a different currency. This makes it easier for your employer to pay your salary.

6. Police clearance certificate: Depending on your job, you may need a police clearance certificate, which you can obtain from the Bürgeramt. This is common in security-sensitive industries or roles involving children.

7. Red card (only food sector): If you work in the food sector as a barista or baker, you'll require a red card, essentially a health certificate. You must undergo a hygiene test at the local health or district office.

Now you’ve got all the insights you need to find your German job, it’s time to get started on the rest of your relocation checklist and make the move to Germany!

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