Skilled Worker with Academic Degree (Fachkraft mit akademischer Ausbildung)

The §18b visa lets non-EU professionals with a recognised university degree work in Germany on a concrete job offer. The role need not match the field of study unless the profession is regulated. A minimum gross salary of €45,630 applies; workers aged over 45 must earn €55,770 or prove adequate pension provision.

Issued for up to 4 years (or contract length plus 3 months if shorter), the permit is renewable. Settlement permit qualification arrives after 3 years of skilled employment, or 2 years for those who graduated in Germany. Spouses may join on a family reunification visa and work without restriction.

This visa is ideal for university-educated non-EU professionals who have a German job offer and want a renewable work permit with a clear path to permanent residency.