Study Abroad Content Specialist
Germany is one of the most sought-after study destinations for Indian students, and it is known for its high-quality, affordable education and strong career prospects. Apart from these, the 18-month German post study work visa is a significant attraction for Indian and other international students. According to recent reports, there will be around 114,499 Indian students in German universities by 2030. This indicates approximately a 300% growth from 28,773 in 2021.
As the name suggests, this visa allows students to stay and look for jobs in Germany for up to 18 months after their degree completion. During this period, you are free to work for any job for as many hours as you can to support yourself. Remember, this post study work permit in Germany is only a type of temporary residence permit. It does not allow you to stay in the country for more than 18 months or apply for an EU Blue Card (permanent residency).
Also read: Universities in Germany
Application Requirements for Germany Post Study Work Permit
A German Student Visa allows you to stay in the country during your studies. You can not stay in Germany for more than your degree duration with a student visa. However, you can apply for a work permit after studying in Germany for 18 months. You need to have the following documents while applying for a Germany post graduate work permit:
- Proof of completed studies
- Proof of health insurance cover
- Proof of being able to secure your livelihood
- Proof of accommodation in Germany.
- Biometric photographs
| If you are unable to find a suitable job within 18 months, you can go back to your home country and apply for a Job Seeker Visa. It allows you to enter Germany for 6 months and find employment. However, in comparison to an extended residence permit or post study work permit, the job-seeker visa does not allow you to work while you are looking for full-time employment. As a result, you will have to provide proof that you have the necessary financial means to support yourself. |
| Must Read Articles | ||
|---|---|---|
| Study in Germany For Free | German University Application Deadline | Cost of Living in Germany |
| Exams to Study in Germany | Best Student Cities in Germany | Part-time Jobs in Germany |
How to Apply for a Germany Post Study Work Visa
To apply for a Germany post study work visa, you need to submit your application at the local Ausländerbehörde (Foreigners' Office) before your student visa expires. Ideally, a month before your German study visa is due to expire is the best time to apply for your post-study work visa from the German authorities at the Foreign Nationals’ Registration Office. The application fee is 75 EUR (6,690 INR approx.).
Also read: German Work Visa
What is an EU Blue Card?
A post study work permit in Germany allows you to stay and look for job opportunities in the country for an additional 18 months. It works as a temporary residence permit. However, if you already got a suitable job, you should apply for an EU Blue Card. It is the permanent residence permit for university graduates from non-EU countries, who have graduated from German universities and would like to stay and work in Germany. To get an EU Blue card, you need to have the following.
- Must have a higher education degree
- Must have an employment contract (of at least six months) with a company in Germany
- You must be offered a salary of at least 45,300 EUR/ year (as of 2024).
- If you work in a profession that is considered “in shortage”, the minimum salary may be lowered to 41,041.80 EUR/ year (as of 2024).
- The same lower salary of 41,041.80 EUR applies to university graduates within 3 years of graduating.
The EU Blue Card is a residence permit that is usually issued for 4 years. However, if the duration of the contract is shorter, German authorities will issue the EU Blue Card for that period of time, with an additional three months. In case the requirements are met, the card can be extended.
After 33 months of residence in Germany, those who have an EU Blue Card can apply for a settlement permit, which allows them to permanently settle in Germany.
| Must Read Articles | ||
|---|---|---|
| Study in Germany For Free | German University Application Deadline | Cost of Living in Germany |
| Exams to Study in Germany | Best Student Cities in Germany | Part-time Jobs in Germany |
The 18-month period provides ample time to secure a job aligned with your qualifications. In this period, you can take up any employment during the job search phase to support yourself. German work experience enhances your global career prospects, especially in industries like automotive, manufacturing, and IT.
FAQs
Ques: Who is eligible for PSW in Germany?
Ans: International students, including Indians, are eligible for a Post-Study Work (PSW) visa in Germany if they complete a degree from a German university and hold a valid student residence permit. You must apply for the PSW visa before your student visa expires.
Ques: Is it easy to get PR in Germany after study?
Ans: Obtaining permanent residency (PR) in Germany is achievable if you secure a full-time job after graduation. With an EU Blue Card, you can apply for PR after 33 months, or 21 months if you meet German language requirements (B1 level).
Ques: Can I get a work permit in Germany after study?
Ans: Yes, international students can obtain a work permit in Germany after completing their studies. After graduation, you can apply for an 18-month Post-Study Work (PSW) visa, which allows you to stay in Germany and search for a job related to your field of study. Once you secure employment, you can transition to a residence permit for employment or an EU Blue Card.
Ques: Can I stay in Germany after 1 year of masters?
Ans: Yes, after completing your master’s degree, you can apply for an 18-month post-study work visa to stay in Germany while searching for a job related to your qualifications.
Comments