Germany 81a Workers Visa and Application Process
Germany 81a Workers Visa and Application Process
For skilled professionals, Germany is an attractive destination for work opportunities – particularly those in the fields of engineering, IT, healthcare, and research. To meet the rising demand for qualified workers, the German government introduced the Germany 81a Workers Visa in 2012.
What is the Germany 81a Workers Visa?
The Germany 81a Workers Visa is a temporary residence permit that allows non-European Union (EU) citizens to work for up to six months in Germany as a skilled worker. It is valid for short-term employment opportunities, including projects, trade-fairs, training programs, and other contract-based work that requires a qualified skill-set.
Who is eligible for the Germany 81a Workers Visa?
The Germany 81a Workers Visa is open to skilled workers who are non-EU nationals and meet the following criteria:
1. Have a job offer from a German employer for work related to their field of expertise.
2. Hold a valid passport and are over 18 years of age.
3. Possess the relevant qualifications, skills, and work experience necessary for the job.
4. Provide proof of health insurance coverage and financial security to support themselves during their stay in Germany.
Application Process for Germany 81a Workers Visa
The Germany 81a Workers Visa application process includes the following steps:
1. Find a job offer in Germany: Interested candidates must secure a job offer from a German employer that fulfills the eligibility criteria.
2. Receive approval from the Federal Employment Agency: Once a job offer is secured, the German employer must obtain approval from the Federal Employment Agency for the foreign employee to work in Germany.
3. Collect all necessary documents: Candidates must gather all the necessary documents required for the application, including a valid passport, a job offer letter, educational certifications, and financial proof.
4. Submit the application at the German embassy or consulate: Candidates must submit their completed application to the nearest German embassy or consulate in their home country.
5. Attend an interview: Depending on the embassy’s requirements, candidates may be required to attend an interview in person or virtually.
6. Wait for the visa approval: Upon a successful review of the application, candidates will be issued a Germany 81a Workers Visa that will allow them to work in Germany for up to six months.
FAQs
Q: What is the processing time of the Germany 81a Workers Visa?
A: The processing time for the Germany 81a Workers Visa varies depending on the embassy’s workload and the complexity of the application. However, it usually takes between two and four weeks for visa approval.
Q: Can the Germany 81a Workers Visa be extended?
A: No, the Germany 81a Workers Visa is not extendable. However, if the employer wishes to continue the employment beyond six months, the foreign employee must apply for a long-term work visa or a Blue Card.
Q: Is it necessary to speak German to work in Germany?
A: While knowing German can be advantageous, it is not mandatory for all job positions in Germany. Many international companies and startups use English as their primary language of communication.
Q: Can family members accompany the foreign employee to Germany?
A: Yes, family members, including spouses and children, can accompany the foreign employee to Germany by applying for a dependent visa.
Q: Can I work multiple jobs while on the Germany 81a Workers Visa?
A: No, it is not possible to work multiple jobs while on the Germany 81a Workers Visa. The visa is valid for a single employer only.