• 3. Meet the Salary
  Your salary must meet the minimum threshold for your visa type. For the popular EU Blue Card, you need a high annual salary (approx. €48,300 gross in 2025, or less for shortage occupations).
• 4. Gather Documents
  Collect all necessary documents (and have two copies of everything!):
  • • Valid Passport
    
  • • Signed Employment Contract
    
  • • Recognition Proof (Anabin printout/ZAB Statement)
    
  • • Diplomas/Degrees (Proof of education)
    
  • • Professional CV/Job Description
    
  • • Proof of Health Insurance (for initial entry)
    

Phase 2: Application (The Embassy Visit)

• 5. Book an Appointment
  You must schedule a personal appointment at the German Embassy or Consulate in your country of residence (often through a service like VIDEX or the Consular Portal). Appointments can be booked far in advance..
• 6. Submit and Interview
  At your appointment, you will:
  • • Submit your completed application forms and all documents (originals + 2 copies).
  • • Pay the visa fee (€75, non-refundable).
  • • Attend a short interview.
  • • Provide your biometrics (fingerprints and photo).
• 7. Internal Review
  The Embassy sends your application to two German authorities for review:
  • • The Foreigners Authority (Ausländerbehörde): Checks your identity and living arrangements.
  • • The Federal Employment Agency (Bundesagentur für Arbeit): Checks that your job offer and salary meet German legal standards.
• 8. Visa Issuance (The Approval)
  Once both authorities agree, the Embassy issues you a National Visa (Type D). This is a sticker in your passport, usually valid for 3 to 6 months, that allows you to enter Germany.

Phase 3: Arrival in Germany (Final Permit)

• 9. Enter Germany and Register
  After you arrive, you have two crucial tasks:
  • • Register Address (Anmeldung): You must register your German address at the local residents' registration office (Bürgeramt) within 2 weeks.
  • • Apply for Final Permit: You must book a second appointment with the local Foreigners Authority (Ausländerbehörde) in your city before your initial visa expires.
• 10. Get Your Residence Permit
  At this second appointment, you provide any final documents, pay a fee, and are issued your final Residence Permit Card (e.g., the EU Blue Card or Skilled Worker Permit).
  This card is your legal permission to live and work in Germany long-term (usually valid for 1-4 years).

For personalized guidance on checking qualification ecognition (Anabin) and ensuring your salary meets the current thresholds, we recommend approaching FederPath.