As a general rule, a visa must be applied for at the appropriate diplomatic mission abroad before entering Germany. Nationals of Australia, Israel, Japan, Canada, the Republic of Korea, New Zealand, and the United States may also apply for a residence permit at the appropriate immigration office in Germany after entering the country. The intended employment may only be taken up after the corresponding residence permit has been issued. The Central Overseas and Specialized Placement Service (ZAV) of the Federal Employment Agency, along with its regional offices, is also responsible for approving residence permits. The ZAV is involved internally by the Foreigners’ Registration Office in the process of issuing the residence permit.
In addition to the entry visa and the subsequent short-term stay, the residence permit is issued as: a residence permit, an EU Blue Card, a settlement permit, or a permit for long-term residence in the EU.
The residence permit is valid for a limited period. It is issued to individuals who
- wish to pursue vocational training or work in Germany,
- are permitted to remain in Germany for reasons of international law, humanitarian grounds, or political reasons,
- wish to immigrate to Germany for family reasons,
- are foreign nationals or former German citizens who wish to return to Germany, or
- have a right of permanent residence in another member state of the European Union.
A residence permit can be extended. In general, consideration is also given to whether the person has duly participated in an integration course.
Make it in Germany – The Federal Government’s Information Portal for Skilled Workers from Abroad