Germany is a popular choice for international students, and it’s easy to understand why.
Students are attracted to Germany not just for its great academic opportunities, but also for the chance to stay back and start a career after graduation.
If you’ve recently completed your studies, the country will be pleased to have you convert your student visa to a work visa, stay back, and pursue a career in your chosen field.
Can I change my student visa to a work permit in Germany?
Yes, you can change your student visa to a work visa in Germany. After completing your studies, you’re eligible to apply for an 18-month job-seeking visa to find a job related to your field.
When you secure a position, you can apply for an EU Blue Card or a residence permit for employment.
However, this process is only possible if you don’t violate the conditions of your student visa during your studies.
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If you did, Germany will be looking to get you out of the country as soon as you complete your studies, instead of offering you an opportunity to stay back.
Therefore, to convert your student visa to a work visa:
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- You must obey your student visa conditions.
- And, you need to qualify for a work visa in Germany.
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If you’re eligible for a conversion, you’re welcome to switch your German student visa to a work visa.
How to convert a student visa to a work visa in Germany
To convert your student visa to a work visa, complete your studies.
Step 1: Complete your studies
Like in many countries, you can only convert your student visa to a work visa in Germany after completing your studies.
However, your student visa must “still” be valid at the point of the conversion.
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Therefore, attend those classes, ace those exams, and wrap your studies up!
Step 2: Apply for a residence permit for employment purposes
As a graduate of a German institution, you’re allowed to remain in the country for 18 months (while looking for a job) if you apply for and get a residence permit for employment.
You can submit your application for the residence permit (Aufenthaltserlaubnis zur Arbeitsplatzsuche) by visiting a local Foreigners’ Registration Office with:
- A valid passport
- Your student visa
- Proof of completed studies
- Proof of health insurance
- Proof of funds to support yourself during your job search.
Learn more details on how to apply for the residence permit here.
Step 3: Get a job offer
With your residence permit, you can start searching for your ideal job in Germany.
During your search, target positions that align with your field of study, as this will increase your chances of success.
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In addition, network with professionals in your field, improve your resume and show your proficiency in the German language – it’s helpful.
Generally:
- Attend job fairs, and industry events, and build connections through platforms like LinkedIn.
- Customize your CV and cover letter to match the job you’re applying for.
- Reach out to employing companies directly.
- If you lack work experience, volunteer to strengthen your application.
- Learn the German language – being proficient in the language will give you an advantage.
When you land your ideal job, get your employment contract with your new employer signed.
Before you sign, thoroughly review the contract, and ensure you fully understand the job’s terms and conditions.
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Your offer letter should clearly state details about your job like your salary, working hours, benefits, and responsibilities.
Step 4: Apply for a work visa
To work in Germany or switch from a student visa to a work visa, you’ll need to apply for a work visa (Arbeitserlaubnis) once you receive a job offer.
Alternatively, you can apply for a residence permit for employment purposes (Aufenthaltserlaubnis zur Erwerbstätigkeit).
Submit your application, along with all required documents, to the German authorities.
You can do that in person if you visit the nearest immigration office (Ausländerbehörde) in your area.
Step 5: Wait for a decision
This is where things get exciting.
After submitting your application, the authorities will go through it and decide whether you should be issued a work visa.
If everything goes smoothly and your application is approved, you’ll receive your work permit.
The permit will be valid for a specific time, usually corresponding to the duration of your employment contract.
When issued, you’ll successfully transition from a student visa to a work visa in Germany!
Documents required to convert a student visa to a work visa in Germany
To convert a student visa to a work visa in Germany, you need:
- A valid passport (at least six months beyond your intended stay)
- Job offer from a German employer
- Completed and signed work visa application form
- Recent biometric passport-sized photos
- Proof of qualifications (certificates, diplomas, or degrees)
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Cover letter
- Health insurance proof
- Proof of accommodation
- Proof of funds (German bank statements)
- Visa fee payment (75 EUR / 90 USD)
- Proof of German language proficiency (if required)
- Clean criminal record.
How much does it cost to apply work permit in Germany?
A German work permit costs 75 EUR (equivalent to 90 USD). The fee is part of your application – your application won’t be processed without it.
Does a German student visa allow you to work?
A German student visa allows you to work part-time during term time and full-time during breaks without needing any further approval from the Federal Employment Agency (BA) or the Immigration Office.
Can I work 40 hours a week as an international student in Germany?
No, international students cannot work full-time (40 hours per week) during the semester.
The working limit for international students is 120 full days or 240 half days per year.
How many hours can international students work in Germany?
You can work up to 20 hours per week during the semester and full-time during semester breaks or holidays.
Your total working hours as an international student in Germany translates to 120 full days or 240 half days in a year.
What happens if you work more than 20 hours on a student visa in Germany?
If you work more than 20 hours per week on a student visa in Germany during the academic semester, you’ll violate your visa regulations.
If caught, you’ll receive a warning from immigration authorities, be fined, or have your visa revoked and be asked to leave the country.
What jobs can I do as a student in Germany?
As a student in Germany, you can:
- Become a Student Assistant (e.g., research, library, administrative)
- Do tutoring jobs
- Retail Sales Associate
- Restaurant Server
- Barista
- Call Center Agent
- Internship (paid or unpaid)
- Freelancer (e.g., graphic design, writing)
- Language Teacher (private or at language schools)
- Event Staff
- Delivery Driver
- Babysitter/Nanny
- Tour Guide
- Fitness Instructor
- Pet Sitter/Walker
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If you have a valid student visa, you do not need further approval from the Federal Employment Agency (BA) or the Immigration Office to do these jobs.
How long does it take to change a student visa to a work permit in Germany?
It takes between 4 weeks to 10 weeks to change from a student visa to a work permit in Germany.
During this time, the authorities will review your application, verify your eligibility and issue you a work permit if you’re eligible.
Benefits of converting a student visa to a work permit in Germany
- Legal work opportunities: Upon converting to a work visa, you can legally work in Germany.
- Path to long-term residency: Through a work visa, you’ll have an opportunity for long-term residency and, potentially, permanent settlement in Germany.
- Full-time work opportunity: With your work visa, you can work full-time.
- Networking: You can connect with professionals in your field and expand your network.
- Access to social benefits: With a work permit, you’ll qualify for some social and employment benefits.
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