Are you in need of a German job seeker visa? Let us explain it to you with guides, processing time, and fees. The job seeker visa for Germany is a three-month permit that allows the applicant to be active in the German labour market without being bound by the contract. Residency rights are granted after a period of three months upon receipt of an acknowledgment from a public employment office.
We know what a headache it can be to find jobs in foreign countries. Luckily, there are other freelancers like you who earn a living online (as YouTubers, Digital marketers, Cyber security experts, Web designers, Programmers, Graphic Designers, etc) and had moved to Germany, and they are willing to help share their strategies on how you too can migrate to Germany using job seeker visa for Freelancers!
The process for applying for a job seeker visa is relatively straightforward. First, you’ll need to submit your application online. Then, you’ll need to attend an interview at the German consulate in your home country. After that, it’s simply a matter of waiting for your visa to be approved.
Getting Started – How to be Eligible for a Germany Job Seeker Visa in 2024
Individuals who wish to apply for a Germany job seeker visa must meet the following eligibility criteria:
– Be a citizen of a country that has a reciprocal agreement with Germany, such as Australia, Canada, or the United States
– Hold a valid passport
– Be at least 18 years of age
– Have completed at least two years of tertiary education OR have worked professionally for at least five years
– Possess adequate financial resources to support themselves during their stay in Germany
– Show proof of health insurance coverage
– Possess a valid return ticket or have sufficient funds to purchase one
– Show proof that they have ties to their home country, such as a job or family, that they will return to after their stay in Germany
– Show evidence of their intention to search for work in Germany, such as a list of companies they plan to contact or a job offer from a German employer
German Job Seeker Documents and Costs Needed When Preparing to Travel
When preparing to travel to Germany for a job seeker visa, as we already mentioned above in this guide, there are a few important documents and costs that you will need to take into account.
German visa (Cost around 60EUR)
First and foremost, you will need a valid passport. Make sure your passport is up-to-date and will not expire while you are in Germany. You will also need to obtain a German visa, which you can do by contacting the German embassy or consulate in your home country. The cost of the visa will vary depending on your nationality, but it is typically around 60 EUR.
Proof of financial means or Proof of Funds (2000EUR) –
You will also need to show proof of financial means when applying for a job seeker visa. This could include things like bank statements or documentation of scholarships or grants. You will need to show that you have enough money to support yourself while you are in Germany, as well as enough money to buy a return ticket home. The amount of money required varies depending on your situation, but it is typically around 2000 EUR.
Health insurance (About 40 EUR per month)
Finally, you will need health insurance. European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) is accepted in Germany, but it is recommended that you get additional private health insurance as well. This is because EHIC does not cover all medical costs, such as dental care or repatriation costs. Private health insurance typically starts at around 40 EUR per month.
What Does German Job Seeker Visa Official Letter Look Like (Job Seeker Visa Cover Letter Sample)
A job seeker visa cover letter is a formal letter that is required as part of the application process for a German job seeker visa. The cover letter should be addressed to the German Embassy or Consulate and must be included with the rest of the required documentation.
The cover letter should state the purpose of the applicant’s visit to Germany and how long they intend to stay. It should also provide an overview of the applicant’s qualifications and experience, as well as their reasons for wanting to work in Germany. The cover letter should be concise and well-written, and it should avoid making any promises that cannot be kept.
Germany Job Seeker Visa Application Steps in 2024/2024
1. Figure out if you need a visa. German law requires that most non-EU citizens obtain a visa before entering the country, regardless of the purpose of their stay. The only exceptions are nationals of so-called “visa-free countries” who can enter Germany without a visa for stays of up to 90 days.
2. Choose the right type of visa. If you will be looking for work in Germany, you will need to apply for a Job Seeker Visa (JSV). This is a special type of visa that allows holders to stay in the country for up to six months while they look for employment.
3. Gather the required documents. When applying for a JSV, you will need to submit several documents in addition to the standard visa application form, including:
– A valid passport or other travel document
– Proof of financial means (e.g., bank statements)
– Evidence of health insurance coverage
– A detailed CV
– A written statement confirming your intention to look for work in Germany
– Letters of recommendation (optional)
4. Make an appointment with the German embassy or consulate responsible for your region. You will need to appear in person at this appointment and submit all of the required documents.
5. Pay the applicable visa fee and wait for a decision on your application. The processing time for JSV applications can vary depending on the embassy
What You can do before or after you Arrive in Germany With your Job Seeker Visa?
If you have a valid job seeker visa as a freelancer, you can enter Germany and still look for a job for up to six months or provide proof that your employer has approved you for a job in the country when you are applying at the German embassy in your country before you migrate.
Once you find a job, you can apply for a residence permit. If your application is approved, you will be allowed to stay in Germany and work for the duration of your residence permit (usually up to four years).
If you have not already been approved for a job before you arrive in Germany, you should note that looking for a job in Germany can be a challenge, but there are many resources available to help you. The first step is to create a strong CV and cover letter in German. You can find tips on how to do this online or from a German embassy or consulate.
Once your CV is ready, start searching for jobs online. There are several websites that list job openings in Germany, including:
- Stepstone (https://www.stepstone.de/)
- Monster (https://www.monster.de/)
- Indeed (https://www.indeed.com/jobs-in-Germany)
Another great way to find jobs is through networking. Talk to people you know who live or work in Germany and ask if they know of any open positions. You can also attend job fairs or meetups in your city of interest.
When you find a job that interests you, make sure to follow the application instructions carefully. Most companies in Germany require applicants to submit their CVs and cover letter online or by email. Sometimes, you may also be asked to complete an online test or send additional documents, such as copies of your passport or visa.
If your application is successful, you will be invited to an interview. This is your chance to learn more about the company and the job, and to show the employer why you are the best candidate for the position.
After the interview, you will find out if you have been selected for the job. If so, congratulations! You can now start working and living in Germany.
