After finding a job in Germany, international graduates must convert their student residence permit into a work visa. This transition is crucial for starting your full-time career. This guide explains eligibility, required documents, salary requirements, how to choose the right visa type, and how to avoid delays at the Ausländerbehörde.
When You Need to Change Your Visa
You must change your visa when:
• you have a qualified full-time job offer
• your job is related to your degree
• you are ready to move from student status to employee status
This applies whether you found the job:
• during your studies
• after graduation
• during your 18-month job-seeking visa
Visa Options After Graduation
You generally have two main options:
1) EU Blue Card (Highly Recommended)
Best for graduates with:
• high-skilled employment
• higher salaries
• strong career prospects
2) Skilled Worker Visa (Fachkräfteeinwanderungsgesetz)
For qualified work that does not meet Blue Card salary thresholds.
Both routes give you long-term opportunities, including permanent residency.
Salary Requirements
✔ EU Blue Card Salary Threshold (2024–2025)
• Regular professions: ~€45,300/year
• Shortage professions (STEM, IT, engineering): ~€41,000/year
(Exact amounts change annually; check the latest values.)
✔ Skilled Worker Visa
No strict salary minimum, but salary must be:
• appropriate for your field
• aligned with German industry standards
• full-time employment
If the salary is unusually low, the Ausländerbehörde may require additional documents.
Required Documents for Changing Your Visa
You typically need:
• valid passport
• biometric photo
• current residence permit
• employment contract or job offer
• job description (from employer)
• university degree (German degree preferred)
• CV
• proof of residence (Meldebescheinigung)
• health insurance
• completed application forms
• fee: €100–€150 depending on visa type
Sometimes Required
• company registration documents
• employer declaration (Erklärung zum Beschäftigungsverhältnis)
• proof of salary structure
• proof of previous internships or experience
Step-by-Step Application Process
Step 1: Prepare All Documents
Gather original copies + scans.
Ensure your job contract includes:
• job title
• salary
• working hours
• start date
Step 2: Book an Appointment
Go to your local Ausländerbehörde website.
Appointments can be slow—book as early as possible.
Step 3: Attend the Appointment
Bring:
• printed documents
• employment contract
• degree certificate
• proof of health insurance
You may be asked questions about:
• your role
• your degree relevance
• your employer
• your salary
Step 4: Receive a Fiktionsbescheinigung (If Needed)
If processing takes time, you receive a temporary permit allowing you to start working immediately.
Step 5: Receive Your New Residence Permit
Processing can take 4–12 weeks, depending on the city.
Blue Card vs Regular Work Visa (Which Should You Choose?)
EU Blue Card
Pros:
• faster path to permanent residency
• easier to change jobs
• high recognition internationally
• benefits for family reunification
• strong long-term advantages
Cons:
• requires higher salary
Skilled Worker Visa
Pros:
• salary requirements are lower
• easier for entry-level roles
• good for humanities/social science graduates
Cons:
• slower path to permanent residency
• more bureaucracy in job changes
If you meet Blue Card eligibility → always choose Blue Card.
What You Can Do While Your Application Is Processing
With a valid Fiktionsbescheinigung, you can:
• start working full-time
• switch employers (depending on permission)
• stay legally in Germany
• travel inside Germany (travel outside EU depends on type)
Common Mistakes That Cause Delays
• submitting incomplete documents
• unclear job descriptions
• employer failing to sign required forms
• short-term contracts (less than 6 months)
• low salary for Blue Card
• applying too late (near visa expiration)
• changing jobs before receiving the new visa
• not having correct health insurance
Tips for a Smooth Visa Transition
Tips for a Smooth Visa Transition
• ask HR to prepare employer documents early
• schedule the immigration appointment immediately after receiving contract
• ensure salary meets the correct threshold
• prepare your degree certificate before leaving university
• print everything—German offices prefer paper
• keep communication with your employer clear
Most delays happen because documents are missing or unclear.
Summary
To change your student visa to a work permit in Germany:
• secure a qualified job offer
• choose the appropriate visa (Blue Card or Skilled Worker)
• ensure your salary meets requirements
• prepare all documents carefully
• apply early at the Ausländerbehörde
With proper preparation, the transition from student to full-time employee can be smooth, allowing you to begin your professional career confidently.