A large number of international students stay back after completing their graduation and pursue work-after Study opportunities in Germany. Some even hope to stay permanently after completing their studies. Such positivism emanates from the fact that Germany has a very accommodating work-after study program for international students. But to take advantage of this largess granted to international students, they need to be familiar with the policies and visa rules under which they can work after study in Germany.

One particular aspect of studying in Germany is that once the study program is over, your residence Permit also expires automatically even if it was issued for a longer period of time originally. This means you have to apply a new at the Foreigners’ Registration Office requesting extension of your residence permit so that you are able to work after study in Germany.

What after study in Germany?

Before your resident permit expires, you have to take the next step that is to apply for a resident permit, which will allow you to stay and then work in Germany. Once you have the permit, you are ready to explore the innumerable possibilities that await you in the country.

Residence Permit for work after study in Germany:

Non-EU students are eligible for residence permits that would enable them to find a job matching their line and level of studies. Students need to follow two steps for the permit

Step 1– Residence permit while you are looking for a job:

Once you are done with your studies, you may not find a job almost immediately. This permit will allow you to stay in Germany for a period of up to 18 months during which you can find a job that mirrors your qualifications. You can take up almost any job to support yourself and sponsor your job search. Get in touch with your local foreign nationals’ registration office, which is the issuing authority for the permit.

Documents checklist:

• Valid Passport
• The university degree. If you don’t yet have it, an official document from the university certifying your successful completion of studies will be good enough.
• Document showing you have health insurance
• Proof that you have the financial resources to support yourself

Step 2 –Residence permit to take up employment:

When you get a job offer in your chosen field of study, you have two options before you: (a) apply for a German resident permit or (b) opt for the EU Blue Card. Both the permits are meant for a special purpose and you have to select carefully.

EU Blue Card: What it holds in store for you:

The EU Blue Card Scheme was introduced to make Europe a more welcoming destination for students and professionals from outside the European Union. The card has also made work after study in Germany a pain-free process. Some of the salient features of the card include:

• Ensures equal salary and working conditions to nationals
• Free movement across the Schengen area
• Provides access to a series of socio-economic rights (including unemployment benefit)
• Facilitates family reunification
• Have provisions for permanent residence
• Freedom of association

Eligibility conditions:

You can apply for the EU Blue Card if you are/have

• An non-EU citizen
• Educated or skilled
• A work contract or job offer that is binding and pays a minimum annual gross salary of 49,600 Euro. There are exceptions for scientists, mathematicians and engineers, doctors and IT specialists, with the cap lowered to 38,688 Euro.
• A university degree from a German university

How to find work after in Germany after studies:

Once the university exams are done and dusted, if you want to stay in Germany you must start looking for a job, which is unless you already have an offer in hand. The normal course is to take help of university services or you can even approach a local employment agency to get you work after study in Germany. A likeable aspect of studying in Germany is most universities have dedicated career counselling departments which provide you all the guidance and help you may need to get a job in your field of study.