What are the five essential steps international students have to take after graduating from a German university?

For many, after graduation an uncertain time starts. With the right approach, you can overcome the upcoming obstacles

Are you about to graduate university or have you just graduated? Congratulations! As an international student, you have achieved a significant milestone that will have a positive impact on your career prospects. Now that you have successfully completed your studies, there are a few essential steps that you should take to ensure that your future is bright and full of opportunities.

Obtain your degree certificate and transcript

The first step is to obtain your degree certificate and transcript. These documents will serve as proof of your academic achievements and will be required for many future endeavors such as job applications and further studies. You can usually obtain these documents from the International- or Examination Office of your university.

Apply for a job-seeking visa or a work visa

If you plan to stay in Germany after graduation and look for a job, you will need to apply for a job-seeking visa at the Ausländerbehörde. This will allow you to stay in Germany for up to 18 months while you search for employment. Alternatively, if you already have a job offer, you can apply for a work visa directly. Both visas require certain documents such as proof of financial means and health insurance.

So, when should you apply for a job seeking visa?

The best time to apply for a job seeking visa is before your current visa or residence permit expires. You should plan to apply at least three months before your current visa expires. This will allow sufficient time for the visa application process and ensure that you can stay in Germany legally while looking for employment.

To apply for a job seeking visa, you will need to provide the following documents:

Valid passport
Valid residence permit or visa
Proof of financial means to support yourself during your stay in Germany
Health insurance coverage
Proof of graduation or completion of studies
A statement explaining your plans for job seeking and career goals in Germany

Once you have gathered all the necessary documents, you should make an appointment at the local Foreigners’ Office (Ausländerbehörde) to submit your application. The application fee for a job seeking visa is currently €100.

It is important to note that a job seeking visa is only valid for job search purposes, and you are not allowed to work during this time. However, if you find a job or internship before the visa expires, you can apply for a work visa or a Blue Card, which allows you to work in Germany.

Build your professional network

Networking is a critical aspect of finding employment in Germany. Attend job fairs, connect with alumni associations, and join professional organizations in your field. You can also use social media platforms like LinkedIn or our network Expatino to connect with professionals and recruiters. Building your network will not only help you find job opportunities but also provide you with valuable insights into the job market and industry trends. Your networking should already start shortly after arriving to Germany.

Tip: Check out our event calendar for upcoming recruiting fairs

Consider further studies

If you are interested in furthering your education, Germany offers a range of postgraduate programs in various fields. You can explore options such as master’s degrees, PhDs, and MBA programs. Additionally, some universities offer specific programs for international students such as DAAD scholarship or the Deutschlandstipendium.

Explore job opportunities

Germany has a thriving job market, and there are plenty of opportunities for international graduates. You can search for jobs online through job portals such as Indeed, Xing, and LinkedIn. You can also explore opportunities through recruitment agencies or by contacting companies directly. Remember to tailor your application materials to the German job market and emphasize your language skills and international background.

Tip: Our Expatino job market focuses exclusively on english-spaeaking jobs.

Learn the language and culture

Finally, learning the German language and culture is essential for integrating into German society and enhancing your job prospects. Consider taking language courses or participating in language exchange programs. Additionally, immerse yourself in German culture by attending local events and festivals, trying traditional foods, and exploring new cities and regions.

In conclusion, graduating from a German university is a significant achievement, and there are plenty of opportunities awaiting international graduates. By obtaining your degree certificate and transcript, applying for a job-seeking or work visa, building your professional network, considering further studies, exploring job opportunities, and learning the language and culture, you can set yourself up for a successful future in Germany. Good luck!