Key takeaways
  • After graduating in Germany, you can get a residence permit of up to 18 months to look for a job.
  • You can work in any job while you search.
  • Switch to an EU Blue Card or skilled worker permit as soon as you have a job that fits your degree.
  • Start applying in your last semester, not after the permit starts.

Graduating in Germany gives you one of the strongest positions in Europe: a German degree, local experience and time to search. Many students waste the first months. Here is how to use the permit well.

The rule

After you complete your studies, you can apply for a residence permit of up to 18 months to look for a job that matches your qualification (Make it in Germany, §20 Residence Act). During this time, you may work in any job to support yourself.

How to apply

  1. Get your final certificate or the confirmation of completion. Ask your examination office for a letter if the certificate takes time.
  2. Book the immigration office early. Apply before your student permit expires. Many offices need weeks for an appointment.
  3. Show health insurance and funds. You must be able to support yourself; a job or savings both work.

A plan for the 18 months

  • Last semester: CV in the German format, LinkedIn, and 30 target companies. Ask your Werkstudent employer about staying.
  • Months 1 to 3: 10 to 15 tailored applications a week and steady networking.
  • Months 4 to 6: review your results. If you get no interviews, the CV or the targets are the problem, not the market.
  • From month 7: widen your search to other cities and nearby fields.

Switching to a work permit

When you sign a contract that fits your degree, apply to switch to an EU Blue Card or a skilled worker permit. As a German graduate you can reach permanent residence faster than most people. Read my permanent residence guide.

Common questions

Can I leave Germany during the 18 months?

Short trips are fine. Long stays abroad can be a problem, so check with your immigration office.

What if I don't find a job in 18 months?

Look at the Opportunity Card or other routes in time, and speak to the immigration office before the permit ends.

Does a job in a supermarket count?

You can work it while you search, but it won't give you a work permit afterwards because it doesn't match your degree.

Sources

Written by Swapnil (Samadhan Mule)

I moved to Germany for my master's, collected more than 1,000 rejections, and then got multiple job offers within six months. I work in digital marketing in Germany and help international professionals get hired in Europe. Read my story.