Labor law for foreigners (Expat Law)
Overview page on expat law and employment law for foreigners in Germany.
Share:
About this page
Expat law ( labor law for foreigners ) is closely linked to skilled immigration law , as skilled immigration law is always a cross-cutting issue between migration law and labor law. For example, the legality of employment contracts plays a role in the approval of the Federal Employment Agency, and the validity of a termination of an employment contract can be relevant to the validity of a residence permit. Therefore, when advising skilled workers, labor law for foreigners must often be considered. On this page, you will find all relevant information on labor law for foreigners.
Articles about this topic
Contact us
Are you looking for a lawyer specializing in German immigration and visa law? We are happy to assist you with residence procedures before embassies, immigration authorities, and administrative courts. Our specialised attorneys are always by your side. Contact us to book an online appointment with a German immigration lawyer!
What is Expat Law?
The term "expat law" encompasses all legal issues faced by people who live and work abroad, either permanently or temporarily—so-called expats. These can concern aspects of residence, employment, tax, and family law. Due to the often complex legal framework in a foreign country, many expats require specialized legal advice to ensure their stay is legally secure.
Labor law for foreigners
A particular focus is on employment law aspects that apply specifically to expats. These include legal questions about the salary of foreign nationals , permissible working hours and vacation entitlement , employment contracts , protection against dismissal , and the prohibition of discrimination . Changing employers and access to social security for expats are also key topics. It is essential for companies to be familiar with this legal framework and to implement it correctly in order to act legally and retain international talent in the long term. Anyone who works as an expat in Germany or employs expats as an employer should familiarize themselves comprehensively with applicable expat law to avoid legal risks.
Residence and visa law
A central topic of expat law is also residence rights. Depending on the country of origin and the destination country, different regulations apply to visas, work permits, and residence permits. Expats often have to prove that they have sufficient financial resources , health insurance , and a legal employment contract. These regulations are also essential for companies that employ international specialists. At VISAGUARD, we focus on providing advice on residence and visa rights for expats and specialists.
Other legal areas for expats
Another important aspect of expat law is tax law. Expats must fulfill all tax and social security obligations in order to be able to work and live in Germany. This is especially relevant for self-employed expats (e.g., freelancers ). Social security law is also important for expats, for example, regarding pension insurance contributions in order to be able to apply for a permanent residence permit .
Living abroad also raises legal questions in the private sphere: What applies to marriages for foreign nationals? Are foreign marriages valid? What happens to the residence permit after a divorce ? If you, as an expat, have questions about family law for foreign nationals, please feel free to contact us.
