In this article, we will try and cover all the aspects of the German Job Seeker Visa including how to apply, eligibility, application process and more. 

Eligibility

To be eligible for this visa program applicants need to meet certain criteria such as: 

• Being at least 18 years old 
• Holding a vocational training certificate or university degree 
• Demonstrating adequate financial support with at least €1,365 per month while residing in Germany. You could open a Blocked account for this purpose, for example.
• Holding a valid passport – Please keep in mind that the Job Seeker Visa serves only one purpose – helping with job searches – without allowing any kind of paid work within Germany throughout its term. 

Applying for the German Job Seeker Visa: Explained Step-by-Step 

Collect the Required Documents 

List of necessary documents for your application, including: 

• A completed Job Seeker Visa application form. 
• A valid passport with at least two blank pages.
• Two passport-sized photographs. 
• Proof of your educational qualifications, such as a degree certificate or vocational training certificate. 
• Evidence of sufficient funds, like bank statements etc. 
• A cover letter outlining your job search plans, specifying the types of jobs and companies you are thinking of applying to. If you would like to use an online platform to assist you, in updating your CV and covering letter/motivation letter, to German Standards, then you could use the services of platforms such as Bewerbungschreiber or JobScan. These platforms not only help you in optimising and bringing your resume up to date but for example, JobScan even optimises your CV for ATS(applicant tracking system) which many of the HR managers of Fortune 500 companies use nowadays.

Schedule an Appointment 

Fix an appointment at the German embassy or consulate in your home country to submit your application 

Navigating the Application Process

Normally the processing time for a Job Seeker Visa application can last from three to four weeks long. The German Embassy will screen your application carefully during this period. If the application is approved, then you will receive a letter of acceptance along with instructions on how to collect your visa.  In case the visa is denied, then you will receive a letter explaining the reasons for this denial. You can choose to reapply or explore alternative visa options. 

Arrival in Germany and initial formalities 

 After you have received the visa and you have made all the necessary travel arrangements to Germany, you need to fulfil a few formalities immediately. The first and foremost step is to register with both the local resident’s registration office (Einwohnermeldeamt) and Federal Employment Agency (Bundesagentur für Arbeit). These should be the top priority for beginning any kind of effective job search.

Strategy for successful job search

To achieve a successful job search campaign during your six-month Job Seeker Visa tenure in Germany it is important to utilize various methods such as direct company contacts, job fairs, networking events and online job boards.  Your eagerness to proactively seek all available resources will significantly increase the odds of landing a desirable employment opportunity. To increase one’s likelihood of success when applying for jobs in Germany it is imperative to establish connections with other professionals by networking widely while also utilizing online job boards and participating in different recruitment events.   It is equally crucial to concentrate on developing one’s skill sets and acquiring relevant experience as these elements make one more attractive as a potential candidate. By taking active measures proactively individuals enhance their competitiveness within the job market. 

Duration of Job Seeker Visa Application Process

Normally after sending an application for the Job Seeker Visa program participants will receive results from German embassies or consulates within three to four weeks concerning approval status.  

Working Restrictions on Job Seeker Visa

During your visa stay paid work is not permitted.  

Extending your Job Seeker Visa

 Those that have been unable to secure employment during their first six months validity period may be eligible for an additional six-month extension if they can demonstrate that they are still actively pursuing new opportunities while showing evidence that they have promising prospects of securing new employment soon.  You will need to show sufficient funds, to support yourself during this phase, and if the extension is granted then you are given another six months for a job search. To support your financial status, you can open a Blocked account. You can read a related article on this here.

Transitioning from a Job seeker visa to a Work visa

If you find a suitable job, while holding a job seeker visa then you can apply for a work visa, after the Job seeker visa expires. The process for this will depend entirely upon the nature of the job you have secured and the requirements of the German Embassy. 

Accompanying Family Members on Job Seeker Visa

With the Job Seeker Visa, unfortunately, family members are not allowed to accompany you to Germany. However, after you have converted to a work visa, then this option is possible. 

Conclusion 

In brief, pursuing a German Job Seeker Visa opens many exciting doors with employment options within Germany worth considering. Sticking to eligibility parameters and following procedures properly can ensure success or failure to secure this visa and in turn employment in Germany.  In case you would like to get some insights on how to search for a job in Germany, then this related article might be worth a read Our links in brief: http://linktr.ee/expatguides