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Important facts

  • South African citizens need a visa to travel to Germany and a residence permit to stay longer than 90 days
  • A visa allows you to enter the country, you apply for your visa at the German Embassy in South Africa. You must apply for the correct long-stay visa, this is linked to the residence permit you will apply for once you are in Germany.
  • For a list of long-stay visas and their relevant information please view our long-stay visas page.
  • After arriving in Germany, you need to register at the Foreigners Office (Ausländerbehörde)
  • Thereafter you need to apply for a residence permit (Aufenhaltstitel or Aufenhaltserlaubnis), which allows you to stay in the country for longer than 90 days
  • You do not need an agency or immigration lawyer to assist you.
  • The embassy in South Africa is extremely helpful, if you have all your paperwork in order, the process should go well. Their website is very informative.
  • Under certain circumstances, you can obtain a visa to look for work.
  • We (our FB page and this website) are not an immigration service and can only advise you where to get the official information.
  • You are not allowed to work in Germany if it is not explicitly stated on your residence permit

New Skilled immigration Act – Changes will be implemented in phases, in November 2023, March 2024 and June 2024. 
Detail about the changes can be found on the Make it in Germany website

Here is a link to the official Information about the Fachkräfteeinwanderungsgesetz (Skilled Immigration Act). Currently it is only available in German.
The latest information in English can be found Anerkennung-in-deutschland website  and Make it in Germany website

Your options for living long term in Germany

1. Employment

Below you will find pages where you can find more information about finding a job in Germany. There are some professions in demand with relaxed entry requirements, read more on Make in it in Germany. There are different Employment visas available, for example:

Info about in demand skilled crafts and trades can be found on the Make it in Germany website

Working in Germany

Working in Germany Everything you need to know about finding work in Germany, what your resume must look like,  recognition of studies, vocational careers, medical, pension and taxes.

3. Training

Are you a South African interested in completing vocational training in Germany? There is a specific visa application process for this. Learn more about it here. We also have a dedicated webpage about the German Vocational Training System. 

The German Vocational Training System

An Ausbildung is a form of vocational training or apprenticeship where a student attends school and works simultaneously. The student gains both theoretical and practical knowledge at the same time.The training usually starts in September every year, but can start at other times as well.

5. Study

Are you interested in studying in Germany? You can enrol at a University or Hochschule (Technical University). 

Study in Germany

Types of learning institutions Hochschule is the name for higher education. Under this, you can get the following institutions.  Fachhochschule – University of applied sciences.  Technische University – Technical University  University – for academics. They offer doctoral and research programs Hochschule does not mean “Hoërskool”

7. Chancenkarte

The Chancenkarte (Opportunity Card) is a points-based immigration system introduced by Germany to attract skilled workers from non-EU countries. The Chancenkarte allows individuals to live in Germany while they search for a job, providing up to six months to secure employment.

Jobseekers visa (Chancenkarte)

Chancenkarte Germany, with its robust economy, rich cultural heritage, and world-renowned education system, has become an increasingly attractive destination for professionals from around the globe. For South Africans seeking to build a new life in Europe, the Chancenkarte, or “Opportunity Card,” offers a promising pathway What is the Chancenkarte? The

9. Freelance or Self employment

Are you considering Self-employment in Germany? You can find comprehensive information about the visa process for Self-employment in Germany here.

Freelancing in Germany

You can set up your own business in two ways, one is to work as a freelancer or as a self-employed entrepreneur (Gewerbe).  If you want to work as a freelancer in Germany, you will need to apply for a Residence permit for the purpose of freelance employment.

11. Language Teachers

Under certain conditions, you may be granted access to the German labour market as a language teacher. You can either be employed at a school or work as a freelancer. 
Read more on the Make it in Germany website

2. Au Pair

Aupair in Germany

Au Pair in Germany Au Pair is by definition a young foreign person, typically a woman, who helps with childcare and childcare-related housework in exchange for food, a room and some pocket money.  Young men can also apply for Au Pair positions

4. Language Course

Enrol in a German language course. 

Study German in Germany

Study German in Germany You can apply to study German in Germany. For this, you need to apply for a Long Term Visa National Visa. Take note that the procedure is different from that

6. Family reunification

Join your family in Germany

Family Reunification Visa

Family Reunification Visa Family reunification in Germany allows close family members to join their relatives living in Germany—whether those relatives are German citizens or third-country nationals with valid residence (Aufenthaltserlaubnis) or settlement

8. Recognition of qualifications

According to Section 16d AufenthG (German Residence Act) –  “For the purpose of recognising professional qualifications which a foreigner has acquired abroad, a foreigner is to be granted a temporary residence permit to undertake a qualification measure and to take a subsequent examination, if a body responsible according to federal or Länder regulations regarding recognition of professional qualifications has determined that adaptation or compensation measures or further qualifications are necessary”. Read more on the Make it in Germany website

10. Visa for research

According to Section 18d AufenthG (German Residence Act) –  You can apply for a visa for research in Germany. Read more on the Make it in Germany website

12. Volunteering

People from 3rd world countries can apply to do volunteer service in Germany. 
There are four types of Voluntary services in Germany, that you can apply for. They are Federal Voluntary Service (BFD), Voluntary Social Year (FSJ), Voluntary Ecological Year (FÖJ), European Voluntary Service (EVS)

Volunteering

Volunteering People from 3rd world countries can apply to do volunteer service in Germany. There are four types of Voluntary services in Germany that you can apply for, they are: Federal Voluntary Service (BFD), Voluntary Social Year (FSJ), Voluntary Ecological Year (FÖJ), European Voluntary Service (EVS) Before you can apply for a visa, you will need a Contract/Arrangement for your voluntary service in

13. Artists

Working in the creative field. You can apply for a visa to work as an artist

14. Professional Drivers

As a professional driver of heavy goods vehicles (HGV) or buses, you have good chance of finding a suitable job in Germany

15. Professional athletes and coaches

The German labour market is also open to professional athletes from abroad

Hotline Working and Living in Germany

The  BAMF (Federal Office for Migration) hotline offers personalised information and advice, in German or English, on the following topics:

  • Job search,
  • Work and careers
  • Recognition of foreign vocational qualifications
  • Entry and residence
  • Learning German


The hotline is available from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. CET, Monday through Friday,

Website

Visit the BAMF website for more information. There is an option to contact them via an online form on their website

Hotline

+49 3018151111

websites

Welcome Centres

If you know in which town you plan to live, you can also contact the Welcome Centre and ask for assistance. Here are some links for the major cities.

Related content

Working in Germany

Working in Germany Everything you need to know about finding work in Germany, what your resume must look like,  recognition of studies, vocational careers, medical, pension and taxes. When it comes to working in Germany, one must be aware of the various types of employment visas available. These visas can range from temporary to permanent, and may differ in eligibility requirements depending on your specific circumstances.  New Skilled immigration Act – Changes will be implemented in phases, in November 2023, March 2024 and June 2024. Detail about the changes can be found on the Make it in Germany website Here is a link to the official Information about the Fachkräfteeinwanderungsgesetz (Skilled Immigration Act). Currently it is only available in German.The latest information in English can be found Anerkennung-in-deutschland website  and Make it in Germany website Types of Employment Visas According to the German Embassy in South Africa, you can apply for the following types of Long Stay visas, if you want to work in Germany:  Type of Visa Additional Info Make it in Germany link Residence Act Blue Card University degree and minimum salary per year.It has more benefits than other employment visas  EU-Blue Card   Skilled worker holding a University degree   Work visa for qualified professionals Section 18b of the Residence Act (AufenthG)  if holding a university degree IT specialist with professional experience   – Visa for IT professionals– IT Specialist in Germany Section 18a or 18b of the Residence Act (AufenthG)  for skilled workers with a vocational training qualifications Research      Section 18d-f of the Residence Act (AufenthG)  Temporary residence permit for mobile researchers Skilled worker with a vocational training qualification   – Work visa for qualified professionals.– Craftspeople and Trade Section 18a of the Residence Act (AufenthG)  for skilled workers with a vocational training qualifications Work in case of partial recognition of qualification    Visa for recognition of foreign qualifications Section 16d of the Residence Act (AufenthG)  Measures regarding the recognition of foreign professional qualifications Crew Members or River Cruise Vessels       ICT Card for intra-corporate transferees      Section 19 of the Residence Act (AufenthG)  Measures regarding the recognition of foreign professional qualifications Professions in demand The list of in-demand professions is updated regularly. To see the current list, visit the Make it in Germany website from the Federal Government. Visa and Residence Career Freelancing You can set up your own business in two ways, one is to work as a freelancer or as a self-employed entrepreneur (Gewerbe).  If you want to work as a freelancer in Germany, you will need to apply for a Residence permit for the purpose of freelance employment. Freelance occupations can be practised for so-called Liberal professions (Freie Berufe) and can include artists, writers, language teachers, engineers, auditors, interpreters, Business or management consultants, architects, translators, and surveyors. Healthcare workers like doctors, dentists, vets and physiotherapists also fall under liberal professions. Financial Facebook Twitter LinkedIn WhatsApp Email

Moving to Germany

Moving to a new country can be both exciting and overwhelming at the same time. The thought of starting a new chapter in your life can bring a sense of thrill, while the idea of going through the process of moving can be daunting. Countless things need to be taken into consideration, and it can be tough to know where to start. Where will you find a suitable place to live? Should you buy or rent? What will be the cost of living? What about your belongings? What should you keep and what should you dispose of? How do you ensure that you don’t forget anything important or leave something behind? You need to make sure that you have everything you need to start fresh in your new home. To assist you in this process, we have created a page filled with useful information, tips, and recommendations to help you plan your journey smoothly and efficiently.  Start by reading the information our “Good to know” page. There you will find helpful information about moving to and life in Germany, housing, electronics and much more  To help you keep track of everything, we’ve put together a thorough checklist of things to consider before embarking on your move to Germany. Our checklist covers all the essential tasks you need to complete, such as finding a place to live, opening a bank account, and registering with the local authorities. Furthermore, we have created a list of essential documents you should bring with you to Germany. This list includes items such as your passport, visa documents, and proof of health insurance. With our comprehensive guide, you can be sure that nothing is overlooked and you are fully prepared for your new life in Germany! Children Moving your belongings The sleeping arrangements in Germany is a bit different from that in South Africa. The bedding sizes are also different. Plan accordingly and don’t bring bedding with you that will not fit on the beds.Make sure you know what you are allowed to bring into Germany.We also have a page about importing a used vehicle. Our advice is only do this if you really really cannot part with your beloved vehicle. We also have a list of Shipping and relocation companies that was suggested by members that used them. Pets It is only natural to want your furry friends to come along with you as well. After all, they are a part of your family and it would be unthinkable to leave them behind. However, moving pets can be a daunting task and requires careful planning and preparation, from choosing the correct mode of transportation, to obtaining necessary health certificates and complying with regulations. WE have to pages that we hope can assist you.  It helps to start learning German as soon as you can. You can find a collection of tips, rules and suggestions for apps, or schools on our Learning German page Flights and travel tips Arriving in Germany Our team has created an informative online space to help you settle in Germany. You can find information on transport, accommodation, banking, language learning, and more.  Facebook Twitter LinkedIn WhatsApp Email

List of Long Stay Visas

Long Term visas are seen as visits longer than 90 days and will typically be for work or study visits. If your application is approved, you will receive a visa to enter Germany. Once you are in Germany you will need to apply for your residence permit at the local Ausländerbehörde as soon as possible. You will always apply for your first long-stay German Visa at the German Embassy in South Africa.This might also apply when you change your type of visa e.g from study to work. The German Embassy in South Africa has offices in Cape Town and Pretoria.From now on, you will have the opportunity to apply for the following types of visa online via the Consular Service Portal of the Federal Foreign Office. Appointments for national visas can be booked online (free of charge). Residents of the following countries/provinces must submit their visa application to the indicated mission: Online appointments Embassy Pretoria: Free State, Gauteng, Kwazulu-Natal, Limpopo, Mpumalanga, North-West, Lesotho, Swaziland Online appointments Consulate General Cape Town: Eastern Cape, Northern Cape, Western Cape. To sponsor someone’s visit for example your adult child who wants to study in Germany and does not qualify for the financial requirements, you need to apply for a Verpflichtungserklärung List of long term visas As rules and regulations can change on a regular basis, we provide the links to the German Embassy in South Africa. Where possible also links to additional information. We are not immigration consultants and can only refer you to the official pages. Blue Card (minimum salary and university degree). You can find additional information on Make it in Germany. You can also download this handy flyer about an EU Blue Card Employment Visa – for qualified professionals.  Subcategories are : Skilled worker holding a University degree IT specialist with professional experience Research stay Skilled worker with vocational training qualification – As a skilled worker with vocational training qualification, you can be issued a residence permit to engage in skilled employment that your qualification enables you to perform. Have a look at the current professions in demand. Please note that some university degrees from foreign universities are classified as vocational training qualifications in Germany. Work in case of partial recognition of qualification – If your vocational training has not been fully recognised by the competent German agency, you can apply for a visa to complete the necessary training in Germany and at the same time start to work. After completion and full recognition of your training, you can apply for permanent residence in Germany. Intra-corporate transfer (ICT). Flyer from BAMF.  Study Visa – General, Doctorate and German language studies. See also our page about studying German in Germany Au Pair Visa Jobseeker, vocational training or voluntary service visa Family reunification – Spouse – see also our page about this topic Family reunification  – Parent to a minor German child Family reunification – Child to a foreign parent (In case a foreign child intends to move to a foreign parent living permanently in Germany) Legal basis Residence Act Aufenthaltsverordnung AufenthV Federal Act on registration Visumhandbuch Resources on the web What type of visa do I need? – Make it in Germany Federal Foreign Office / Auswärtiges Amt Federal Office for Migration and Refugees / Bundesamt für Migration und Flugtlinge Act on the Residence, Economic Activity and Integration of Foreigners in the Federal Territor from the Bundesministerium der Justiz. Visa Regulations  Terminology Permanent Residence Permit Die Nierderlassungserlaubnis Residence Permit Der Aufenhalstitel Visa Das Visum Blue Card Die Blaue Karte Related content Facebook Twitter LinkedIn WhatsApp Email

Learning German

Master the Language. Embrace the Culture. Embarking on the journey to learn German can be approached in various ways to suit your lifestyle and goals. Online platforms offer the convenience of flexible language courses, while mobile apps make learning easy wherever you are. For a more interactive experience, attending in-person classes can provide practical lessons and opportunities to practice with others. European Language Framework In Germany, the European Language Framework (CEFR) is widely used to assess language proficiency. This framework helps learners understand their current skill level, identify areas for improvement, and work towards internationally recognized certifications. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to refine your skills, there’s a path to mastering German that fits your needs. Level Group Level Description ABasic user A1Breakthrough or beginner Can understand and use familiar everyday expressions and very basic phrases aimed at the satisfaction of needs of a concrete type. Can introduce themselves and others and can ask and answer questions about personal details such as where they live, people they know and things they have. Can interact in a simple way provided the other person talks slowly and clearly and is prepared to help. A2Waystage or elementary Can understand sentences and frequently used expressions related to areas of most immediate relevance (e.g. very basic personal and family information, shopping, local geography, employment). Can communicate in simple and routine tasks requiring a simple and direct exchange of information on familiar and routine matters. Can describe in simple terms aspects of their background, immediate environment and matters in areas of immediate need. BIndependent user B1Threshold or intermediate Can understand the main points of clear standard input on familiar matters regularly encountered in work, school, leisure, etc. Can deal with most situations likely to arise while traveling in an area where the language is spoken. Can produce simple connected text on topics that are familiar or of personal interest. Can describe experiences and events, dreams, hopes and ambitions and briefly give reasons and explanations for opinions and plans. B2Vantage or upper intermediate Can understand the main ideas of complex text on both concrete and abstract topics, including technical discussions in their field of specialization. Can interact with a degree of fluency and spontaneity that makes regular interaction with native speakers quite possible without strain for either party. Can produce clear, detailed text on a wide range of subjects and explain a viewpoint on a topical issue giving the advantages and disadvantages of various options. CProficient user C1Effective operational proficiency or advanced Can understand a wide range of demanding, longer clauses, and recognize implicit meaning. Can express ideas fluently and spontaneously without much obvious searching for expressions. Can use language flexibly and effectively for social, academic and professional purposes. Can produce clear, well-structured, detailed text on complex subjects, showing controlled use of organizational patterns, connectors and cohesive devices. C2Mastery or proficiency Can understand with ease virtually everything heard or read. Can summarize information from different spoken and written sources, reconstructing arguments and accounts in a coherent presentation. Can express themselves spontaneously, very fluently and precisely, differentiating finer shades of meaning even in the most complex situations. Online Courses Online German courses are becoming increasingly popular among students and professionals who wish to improve their language skills. If you are considering taking a German course online, you may be pleased to know that several institutions offer high-quality language instruction. These courses typically cover a range of language competencies, including reading, writing, speaking, and listening comprehension.  VHS-lernportal is free to use Goethe Deutsche Welle DW.com – Nicos Weg www.deutsch-uni.com www.alumniportal-deutschland.org Lingoda LerneDeutsch For small school going children – Scoyo Udemy offers thousands of courses for learning German. The following were recommended to us: A.1.1, A1.2,  A2.1, A2.2  Kevin Gründel – Udemy Native German Language teacher Learn German in South Africa The following institutions offer traditional classroom courses which provide face-to-face interactions with instructors and peers. You will have the opportunity to learn German in a supportive and structured environment, with experienced instructors who will guide you through every step of the process.  Goethe Institute Johannesburg The German Language & Cultural Institute Study German in Germany The best way to learn any language is by attending classes and practising it in a real-life setting. Not only do these classes enhance your language skills, but they also expose you to German culture and open doors to new friendships and experiences.  Local Volkshochschule – VHS Berlitz Language school Integration course If you received your residence permit after January 1, 2005, and cannot communicate at a basic or adequate level in German, you may be required to attend an integration course. This requirement is determined by the immigration office when your residence permit is issued. If you are receiving citizens’ benefits and are instructed by the relevant office to participate in an integration course, attendance is mandatory. Cost Exemptions and Reimbursements Exemptions from Costs:If you receive citizens’ benefits, unemployment benefits, or assistance to cover living expenses, you can apply for an exemption from course fees. Additionally, those facing financial or personal hardships may also qualify for an exemption. Reimbursement of Costs:If you pass the final test of the integration course within two years (or three years for special target groups) from the date your Eligibility Certificate (Teilnahmeberechtigung) was issued, you may be eligible to have half your course fees reimbursed. This requires completing and submitting an application to the appropriate branch office. For detailed information, visit the BAMF website or the BAMF NAvI website. Where to register and write the exams To be recognised for German integration courses, permanent residency, or citizenship, your B1 or B2 language exam must be from a provider that is officially recognised by the BAMF (Bundesamt für Migration und Flüchtlinge) and accepted by your local Ausländerbehörde. Here’s where you can take such exams: Volkshochschule (VHS) Your local adult education centre Offers telc and Goethe exams Also offers preparation courses and integration courses Learn More Goethe-Institut Offers Goethe-Zertifikat B1 and B2 Widely accepted for citizenship and residency Locations: Across Germany and worldwide Learn More telc gGmbH Offers

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