Jobs in Germany for English speakers
The visa routes for professionals from outside the EU, the 2026 salary thresholds, and what to expect on language.
Last checked: November 2026. Visa rules and salary thresholds change every year. This page is a general guide, not legal or immigration advice. Confirm every detail on the German government's official portal before you apply: Make it in Germany
Yes. If you are from outside the EU, the main route is the EU Blue Card: you need a recognised degree and a job offer in Germany that pays at least €50,700 gross a year in 2026, or €45,934.20 in shortage occupations and for graduates in their first three years. If you do not have a job offer yet, the Opportunity Card lets you go to Germany to look for work, if you can show at least €1,091 a month and meet the points criteria.
The main routes in 2026
| Route | Who it is for | Key requirement |
|---|---|---|
| EU Blue Card | People with a recognised academic degree and a job offer that matches it. | Gross salary of at least €50,700 a year, or €45,934.20 for shortage occupations and for graduates within three years of their degree. |
| EU Blue Card for IT specialists | IT specialists without a formal degree who have at least three years of work experience at an academic level. | A job offer of at least six months and a gross salary of at least €45,934.20 a year. |
| Skilled worker residence permit | People with a recognised degree or vocational qualification and a job offer. | No fixed minimum salary up to age 45. From 45, at least €55,770 a year or proof of adequate pension provision. |
| Opportunity Card | People who want to move to Germany to search for a job. | Proof of funds of at least €1,091 a month (blocked account or declaration of commitment), proof of qualification and the points criteria. |
The visa fee is €75, paid in local currency. With an Opportunity Card you may do trial work for up to two weeks per employer and work part-time for up to 20 hours a week while you search.
Do I need to speak German?
It depends on the job. Germany's Federal Employment Agency advises that translating your CV is often not enough and that German application standards apply, and it recommends having your documents checked by a German speaker. Jobs advertised in English do exist, so search with the word "English" and read each advert for the language it asks for.
How to apply
- Check your qualification. Find out whether your degree or vocational qualification is recognised in Germany. Some professions need official recognition before you can work.
- Prepare a German-style application. A CV in table form of no more than two pages, a cover letter and copies of your certificates. See the German CV format guide.
- Apply directly to the company. Employers say in the advert which documents they want, usually by email or through their website.
- Get the job offer in writing. You need the signed contract, with the salary, for the visa.
- Apply for the visa. Skilled workers from outside the EU normally apply at the German embassy in their country before travelling.
Questions people ask
What salary do I need for an EU Blue Card in Germany in 2026?
At least €50,700 gross a year. For shortage occupations, and for graduates who got their degree in the last three years, the minimum is €45,934.20.
Can I move to Germany without a job offer?
Yes, with the Opportunity Card for job seekers. You need proof of your qualification, the points criteria and funds of at least €1,091 a month in 2026, shown through a blocked account or a declaration of commitment.
Can IT specialists get a Blue Card without a degree?
Yes. IT specialists with at least three years of work experience at an academic level and a job offer of at least six months can qualify with a gross salary of at least €45,934.20 a year in 2026.
How much is the German work visa fee?
€75, paid in local currency at the German mission. Fees for the residence title issued in Germany can add up to €100.
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