As a foreign graduate of a German university, you can apply for a residence permit to look for work after completing your studies.

The job you are looking for must be one that you are qualified to do based on your qualifications. The job you are looking for can also be self-employment.

This residence permit can be issued for up to 18 months. The residence permit is only for the sole purpose of looking for work and cannot be extended beyond this maximum period.

During your job search, you are permitted to engage in any gainful employment and do not require a permit to do so.

• You have a recognized and valid identity document (e.g., passport or passport substitute).
• You have a valid residence permit for the purpose of studying (Section 16b or Section 16c of the Residence Act).
• You have successfully completed your studies in Germany and your residence permit will expire in the near future.
• You can cover your living expenses and health insurance without claiming public benefits.
• There is no interest in expelling you.

Your stay does not jeopardize or impair the interests of the Federal Republic of Germany.

• Find out whether your immigration office allows you to apply online or provides a special application form.
• If you can only apply in person, make an appointment with the immigration office. If you apply online, the immigration office will contact you after receiving your application to arrange an appointment.
• During the appointment, your identity and documents will be checked (please bring your documents, preferably the originals, with you to the appointment).
• If your application is approved, your fingerprints will be taken for the production of a new electronic residence permit (eAT card). The immigration office will order the production of the eAT card from the Federal Printing Office. Once it is ready, you will be notified and can pick up your residence permit from the relevant office. The eAT card must always be picked up in person.
• If your application is rejected, you will receive a rejection notice.

Federal Government portal for skilled workers from abroad, here: Prospects after graduation:

https://www.make-it-in-germany.com/de/studium-ausbildung/studieren-in-deutschland/perspektiven-danach

Information from the Federal Employment Agency on access to the labor market for people from abroad (including migration check for employees, information sheet on employing foreign workers in Germany):

https://www.arbeitsagentur.de/fuer-menschen-aus-dem-ausland

Federal Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs:

https://www.bmas.de/DE/Arbeit/Arbeitsfoerderung/arbeitsfoerderung.html

Central Foreign and Specialist Placement Service (ZAV):

https://www.arbeitsagentur.de/vor-ort/zav/startseite

• Appeal against the decision of the immigration authorities
• Action before the court named in the notice of objection if the objection is not upheld

The application should be received by the immigration office no later than 8 days before your current residence permit expires.

Period of validity (for a fixed period): maximum 18 months

The residence permit is issued for a maximum period of 18 months. The residence permit cannot be extended beyond this maximum period.

It takes approximately 4 to 6 weeks for the Federal Printing Office to produce the electronic residence permit.

• Recognized and valid identity document (e.g., passport or passport substitute)
• Visa, if required for entry
• Current biometric passport-size photo (45 x 35 mm)
• Valid residence permit for the purpose of studying (Section 16b or Section 16c of the Residence Act)
• Proof of successful completion of studies in Germany
• Proof of sufficient funds to cover living expenses (e.g., employment contract, equity capital, blocked account, letter of commitment)
• Proof of health insurance coverage
• Current registration certificate

In individual cases, the immigration office may require less or more evidence.

Fee: EUR 98.00

Note:

Additional fees may apply for the issuance of a residence permit in the form of an electronic residence permit, which can also be used as electronic proof of identity.

Forms available: No

Written form required: Yes

Informal application possible: No

Personal appearance required: Yes