Career Service Career Service

You can find tips for applying for a job in Germany here! 

Do you want to prepare for the German job market? We offer numerous workshops especially for foreign students and alumni to help you get ready for looking for a job and working in Germany. These include the following:

For orientation:

• Information events on the labour market in the Hamburg metropolitan region
• The 'Working in Germany' series (which includes the module 'Working with German colleagues')

For language-related preparation:

• German as a foreign language in the application process / interview training
• Writing emails in German
• Pronunciation training for on the job
• The application process for students with DaF/DaZ

If German is your foreign or second language and you mostly need language-related support with writing your CV and cover letter, the DaF/DaZ application check is the right choice for you.

If you completed your studies in English and need help with your English-language CV and cover letter, you can sign up for the CV and cover letter check. The advising session can take place in German or English.

After completing your studies with a visa granted under section 16 of the Aufenthaltsgesetz (Federal Residency Act), you are required to prove that you have adequate financial resources to support yourself while you search for a job that matches your qualifications. This means that as a graduate you are permitted to take up any kind of employment.

Once you have successfully completed your Bachelor's or Master's degree, you are required to inform the Immigration Office responsible for your file. If you have a visa under section 16 of the Aufenthaltsgesetz (Federal Residency Act), you then have 18 months to find a job that matches your qualifications. The 18 months begin on the date of issue in the written notification informing you that you have successfully completed your examinations and providing your final grades. The date of de-registration or the day the transcripts are awarded are not relevant for this deadline.

Once you have found a job, the previous visa can be changed to a residency permit for the purpose of employment.

Are you planning to stay in Germany permanently? You can find out more about the privileges and benefits of the EU Blue Card here.

What information should be included in my employment contract?
A guide to study, research and work in Germany
Work & Start Up guide

The ESF project 'your way: make it in Hamburg' is aimed at foreign workers, university graduates and apprentices who want to live and work in Hamburg, as well as refugees with professional qualifications and good prospects of staying.

The project team provides support in searching for jobs, making contact with employers in Hamburg and in issues relating to careers. As well as integrating skilled workers into the employment market, 'your way: make it in Hamburg' also promotes complete integration into everyday life.

'your way: make it in Hamburg' provides information on the following

• Opportunities in the employment market
• Study opportunities
• The education and training system
• Opportunities for further training
• Application strategies

Do you want to prepare for the international job market? We offer numerous workshops especially for students and alumni to help you get oriented and ready for the international labour market. These include:

For orientation:

• Applying internationally: English-language countries
• Applying internationally: Denmark

For language skills:

• English for socialising
• English for negotiation
• English for emails and business writing
• International business etiquette
• Interview training

Do you need help creating your application documents for jobs abroad? Then sign up for the CV and cover letter check ! Your advising session can take place in German or English. Together we can assess whehter your documents meet the country-specific criteria.

Applying in English - Tips for your English-language job application abroad

German Chambers of Commerce Abroad provide the addresses of German companies operating in other countries
European Job Mobility Portal