Skilled Worker Visa — Academic

What this visa is

A work visa for university graduates who have secured a concrete job offer in Germany. Unlike the EU Blue Card, there is no fixed minimum salary threshold for most applicants — making it a strong option for those whose salary may fall below the Blue Card threshold.

Who it is for

• ✓University graduates with a degree recognised in Germany or comparable to a German academic qualification (if you are unsure whether yours qualifies, we will help you confirm or get the recognition done)
• ✓Those with a concrete job offer in a qualified position matched to their field of study
• ✓Applicants over 45 must earn a minimum gross annual salary of €55,770 (2026) or demonstrate adequate pension provision
• ✓No German language requirement to apply, though German improves your career prospects significantly

Key facts

• →No fixed minimum salary for applicants under 45 — salary must simply be comparable to what German employees earn in the same role
• →Settlement permit (permanent residency) possible after 3 years
• →For regulated professions such as healthcare, a professional licence to practise must be obtained before the visa can be issued
• →Federal Employment Agency approval is generally required as part of the visa process

Source: Make it in Germany — Work Visa for Qualified Professionals