Key takeaways
  • Read your termination letter and contract first: notice period, last working day, remaining holidays.
  • In Germany, register as a job seeker with the Federal Employment Agency as early as possible.
  • Tell the foreigners' office about the change if your permit is tied to your job, and ask what applies to you.
  • Restart your search with a sharper target, not with panic applications.

Many people who message me were laid off, often for reasons that had nothing to do with their work. It is stressful, especially when your visa depends on your job. Here is a calm plan for the first 30 days.

Week 1: facts first

  1. Read your letter and contract. Check the notice period (section 622 BGB), your last working day and remaining holidays.
  2. Register as a job seeker. In Germany, register with the Federal Employment Agency as early as possible, ideally as soon as you know your end date.
  3. Check your permit. If your residence permit is tied to your job, contact the foreigners' office and ask what applies in your case.
  4. Get advice if something looks wrong. An employment lawyer or a counselling service can check the termination.

Weeks 2 to 4: restart

  • Update your CV with your latest results: CV guide.
  • Tell your network, simply and positively.
  • Make a target list and follow a plan: 90 day plan.
  • Ask your employer for a reference letter (Arbeitszeugnis).

Rules depend on your permit and situation. This is general information, not legal advice.

If you need a clear plan fast, message me.

Free PDF: 12 week job search workbookDownload it free in under a minute, or send WORKBOOK to @swapnil_in_germany on Instagram.

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.