Germany · Skilled Worker Visa
Work Visa for Qualified Professionals (Section 18a/18b AufenthG)
Section 18a (vocational training) and 18b (academic) AufenthG. Settlement after 3 years.
Section 18a (vocational training) and 18b (academic) AufenthG. Settlement after 3 years.
At a Glance
Eligibility Requirements
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Age Range | 18+ |
| Job Offer Required | Yes |
| Sponsorship Required | Yes |
| Language Required | B1 |
| Health Insurance Required | No |
Financial Requirements
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Minimum Income | €4,648/mo |
Family & Rights
| Right | Details |
|---|---|
| Family Allowed | Yes |
| Path to Permanent Residency | Yes |
Related Pathways
Cost of Living
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Work Visa for Qualified Professionals (Section 18a/18b AufenthG)?
Section 18a (vocational training) and 18b (academic) AufenthG. Settlement after 3 years.
What are the financial requirements for the Work Visa for Qualified Professionals (Section 18a/18b AufenthG)?
Applicants need minimum income of €4,648/mo. Additional costs may include relocation expenses, insurance, and document attestation.
Can I bring my family on the Work Visa for Qualified Professionals (Section 18a/18b AufenthG)?
Yes, this pathway allows family members including dependents.
Can the Work Visa for Qualified Professionals (Section 18a/18b AufenthG) lead to permanent residency?
Yes — this pathway can lead to permanent residence, subject to meeting the residence and other conditions. We do not publish a qualifying timeline for this route because we have no official source stating one; check with the relevant authority for the current residence requirement.
Are there alternative pathways to Germany?
Yes. Germany offers 7 other immigration pathways. Compare all options on our Germany country page.
What is the cost of living in Germany?
Monthly costs for a single person in city center: Berlin: €2,200/mo; Munich: €2,536/mo; Hamburg: €2,090/mo. These include rent, groceries, transport, and utilities.
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Official source
Requirements on this page are based on this official/primary source:
Data last verified: 2026-06-24 · See our methodology
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