Category: Jobs Abroad

Some countries let you arrive first and search for a job after you land. These routes are called job-seeker visas or job exploration visas. Here is how they work in general terms.

Germany offers the Opportunity Card. This is a points-based route that lets you come to Germany and search for a job for up to 1 year. Points are given for things like your qualification, work experience, language skills, and age.

Portugal has a job-seeker visa. It lets you enter Portugal and look for work within a set time. Austria has a similar job-seeker visa with its own points system. The UAE offers a job exploration visa for skilled workers who want to search for jobs in the Emirates.

Other countries have their own versions. Sweden, Finland, and the Netherlands each have routes for skilled workers to come and look for jobs. The UK has the High Potential Individual visa for graduates of top universities, which lets them come to the UK and work without a job offer first.

Each route has its own rules. The rules cover points, funds you must show, language needs, and how long you can stay. Rules change often, so check the official immigration site of that country before you apply. Do not trust old blog posts for the current rules.

Follow these steps. First, check the points and funds rules for the country you want. Second, prepare your documents and language proof. Many routes need proof of your education and sometimes a language test. Third, apply on the official portal of that country. Fourth, search for a job after arrival within the allowed time. Use the time well, because the visa has a fixed end date.

Be careful with money. Some routes need you to show enough funds to support yourself while you search. Plan for rent, food, and travel before you go.

Never pay an agent for a guaranteed offer or visa. No agent can guarantee a visa. The decision is always made by the government of that country. Apply through the official portal and keep your own documents.

GlobalCareerAlert is a private information portal, not a government website and not a recruitment agent. Never pay anyone for a job offer itself. Always verify on the official government/employer site before applying.

Overview

Germany has published a list of 70 shortage occupations. These are jobs where the country needs more workers than it can find at home. The list supports the Skilled Immigration Act, which makes it easier for skilled workers from other countries to come to Germany.

Fields with the most openings

The list covers many fields. These include science and engineering, health professionals, teaching, information and communication technology, and management.

Some examples from the list are engineers, nurses, doctors, and teachers. Software developers, systems analysts, and database and network professionals are also on the list. Managers in manufacturing and construction are included too.

• Engineers and technicians — in demand across manufacturing and construction.
• Nurses, doctors and care workers — strong demand in healthcare.
• Teachers and educators — listed among the shortage occupations.
• IT professionals — software developers, systems analysts and network specialists.
• Science and management roles — researchers and managers are needed too.

Why Germany is hiring from abroad

Germany needs many skilled workers every year. A large number of workers are retiring, and there are not enough younger workers to replace them. This is why the country is opening its doors to skilled workers from abroad.

EU Blue Card: lower salary threshold

There is also a separate, smaller list of 11 occupations. Workers in these jobs can apply for the EU Blue Card with a lower salary threshold. Salary thresholds change every year, so check the exact current threshold on the official Make it in Germany portal before you apply.

How to apply if your job is on the list

If your job is on the shortage list, follow these steps. First, check if your occupation is on the list. Second, check if your qualification needs official recognition in Germany. Some jobs need this step before you can work. Third, find an employer who wants to hire you. Fourth, apply for the right visa for your situation.

Official Sources

Start with the official sources. The Make it in Germany portal is the official government portal for skilled workers. The Federal Employment Agency also publishes official information about shortage occupations.

GlobalCareerAlert is a private information portal, not a government website and not a recruitment agent. Never pay anyone for a job offer itself. Always verify on the official government/employer site before applying.