GERMANY · EXPERIENCE ROUTE
Your Experience, Your Route
A work visa without waiting for recognition: with state-recognised vocational training, two years of experience in the last five and a minimum salary.
WHAT IS IT?
Working Without
Recognition
Since March 2024, Germany has opened non-regulated occupations to experienced workers without requiring prior recognition of their qualification. The legal basis is Section 19c(2) of the Residence Act and Section 6 of the Employment Ordinance (BeschV).
Instead of a lengthy recognition procedure, confirmation from the ZAB that your training is state-recognised in your home country is enough. No language certificate is required for the visa, although employers usually expect basic German.
REQUIREMENTS
Who Can
Apply?
All requirements must be met together. If one is missing, look at the other routes below.
- State-recognised vocational training of at least two years (e.g. vocational high school, MESEM journeyman or master certificate) or a university degree
- At least two years of relevant work experience within the last five years
- A concrete job offer and employment contract in a non-regulated occupation
- At least €45,630 gross per year (2026); not required if the employer is bound by and pays under a collective agreement
- Over 45: at least €55,770 or adequate pension provision
- Approval from the Federal Employment Agency (BA)
SUITABILITY
Who Is This
Route For?
Suitable Occupations
Non-regulated, qualified work.
- CNC operators, welders, industrial technicians
- Electricians and installers
- Chefs and hospitality staff
- Construction and renovation trades
- IT specialists
Another Route Needed
In these cases a different legal route applies.
- Nursing, physiotherapy and other regulated jobs: recognition
- Professional drivers: Section 24a and Code 95
- Salary below the threshold: recognition and Section 18a
- No job offer yet: Opportunity Card
PROCESS
Step by Step
We review your documents, experience and target salary and confirm whether this route fits you.
The ZAB confirms that your training is state-recognised in Türkiye.
We prepare the contract and the employment declaration with your employer for BA approval.
National visa application at the German mission; fee €75.
Address registration and the Section 19c(2) residence permit at the immigration office.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I really work without recognition?
Yes, in non-regulated occupations. The ZAB must still confirm that your qualification is state-recognised in Türkiye. You can apply for recognition in Germany later if you wish.
Do I need German?
No language certificate is required for the visa. For the job and daily life we recommend at least A2, ideally B1.
What if my salary is below the threshold?
If the employer is bound by and pays under a collective agreement, the threshold does not apply. Otherwise recognition with Section 18a or the Opportunity Card may be options.
Sources: Residence Act Section 19c(2); Employment Ordinance Section 6; Make it in Germany. Salary thresholds are updated every year.
NEXT STEP
Your Experience
May Be Enough.
In a free consultation we review your documents and experience and work out together which route fits you.
Book a Free Consultation