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Work permit general information

If you are not a German citizen and want to work in Germany, you may need a work permit. You can find more information here.

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Detailed description

A work permit is a permit that allows you to work in Germany. Whether you need a work permit depends on your country of origin. If you come from a country in the European Union, Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein, or Switzerland, you may work in Germany without a separate permit.



If you come from another country, you generally need a work permit. The work permit is linked to your residence permit. This means you don't have to apply for it separately. When you apply for your residence permit, it will automatically be checked whether you are permitted to work. Your residence permit will then state whether you are permitted to work and to what extent. Whether you can obtain a work permit generally depends on the purpose of your stay, the length of your stay, the type of employment, and the labor market situation.

 

Information

Prerequisites

The requirements you must meet to obtain a work permit always depend on your individual circumstances. These include your residence status, your country of origin, your professional qualifications, and the type of employment.

Documents required

Which documents you need to submit for a work permit always depends on your individual case. The responsible authority will inform you accordingly when you apply for your residence permit.

Please note

No

Deadlines

You may only begin work once you have been explicitly authorized to do so by your responsible immigration authority. This usually occurs when you receive your residence permit and work permit. In individual cases, you may be authorized to start work in advance with a temporary certificate of employment.

Procedure

  • You apply for a residence permit at the relevant authority.
  • The responsible body will examine your application and, if necessary, involve the Federal Employment Agency in the examination.
  • If all requirements are met, you will receive a residence permit with the corresponding work permit.

Processing time

The review of your application may take several weeks.

Fees

There are no additional costs for obtaining a work permit. You must cover the costs of the residence permit.

Legal remedies

Contradiction

Legal basis

Section 4a Residence Act (AufenthG)





Section 39 ff Residence Act (AufenthG)





Employment Ordinance (BeschV)


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Keywords: Work permit, secure residence Start of work (work permit) Change of conditions (work permit) Certificate of freedom of movement eAT residence permit

Last updated: 07.09.2025