Skilled workers according to Section 18a of the Residence Act
All information on the requirements and procedure for obtaining a residence permit for skilled workers (Section 18a).
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Here you learn ...
what a residence permit for skilled workers is according to Section 18a of the Residence Act
when a residence permit is issued according to Section 18a of the Residence Act ( requirements )
how the application procedure for Section 18a works
how family reunification and the settlement permit are regulated under Section 18a
Table of contents
1. Skilled workers with vocational training (Section 18a of the Residence Act)
1.1 Duration § 18a Residence Act
1.2 Visa requirement for skilled workers
2. Requirements Section 18a Residence Act
2.1 Recognized training
2.2 Qualified employment
2.3 Approval of the Federal Employment Agency
2.4 Professional license
2.5 No language skills § 18a
2.6 General requirements § 18a
3. Administrative procedure for Section 18a of the Residence Act
3.1 § 18a as a visa at the embassy
3.2 Conversion into residence permit
4. Rights and obligations § 18a Residence Act
4.1 Changing jobs § 18a Residence Act
4.2 Family reunification (Section 18a)
4.3 Settlement permit (Section 18a)
4.4 Naturalization under Section 18a of the Residence Act
5. FAQ § 18a
6. Conclusion § 18a
1. Skilled workers with vocational training (Section 18a of the Residence Act)
Section 18a of the Residence Act (AufenthG) regulates the granting of a residence permit for employment as a skilled worker with vocational/company training . Section 18a AufenthG is thus the counterpart to Section 18b AufenthG, although Section 18b AufenthG regulates employment as an academic skilled worker (without Blue Card status). Section 18a AufenthG can be issued as both a residence permit and a Type D visa. In this article, you will learn everything about the requirements and procedure for granting a residence title (visa or residence permit) for skilled workers with non-academic training in accordance with Section 18a AufenthG.
1.1 Duration § 18a Residence Act
If all requirements are met, you are entitled to a residence permit. In the case of Section 18a of the Residence Act, the duration of the permit is generally based on the length of the employment relationship . If the approval from the Federal Employment Agency is only valid for a shorter period, then the residence permit is issued for the duration of the approval in accordance with Section 18a of the Residence Act. For permanent employment relationships and permanent approval from the Federal Employment Agency, the permit is issued for four years ( Section 18 (4) of the Residence Act ).
1.2 Visa requirement for skilled workers
As a skilled worker, you have the option of applying for a permitted entry through the expedited skilled worker procedure under Section 81a of the German Federal Act on the German Civil Code (BGB) or the standard procedure for a national visa. You should make use of these options, as many immigration authorities consider it abusive to initially enter the country with a Schengen visa . This can have serious consequences.
2. Requirements Section 18a Residence Act
2.1 Recognized training
In practice, the most complicated requirement under Section 18a of the Residence Act is usually the recognition of training acquired abroad. To qualify as a skilled worker, the foreigner must provide evidence of having completed qualified vocational training in Germany or of having a foreign professional qualification equivalent to qualified vocational training in Germany ( skilled worker with vocational training, Section 18 Paragraph 3 No. 1 of the Residence Act ). Proof is not required for training completed in Germany. For training completed abroad, the foreigner must submit a recognition certificate from the relevant recognition authority. We have written a separate VISAGUARD article on applying for a recognition certificate .
2.2 Qualified employment
A further requirement for the issuance of a residence permit pursuant to Section 18a of the Residence Act is that the employment is qualified . Qualified employment within the meaning of the Residence Act exists if its performance requires skills, knowledge, and abilities acquired through a degree course or qualified vocational training (Section 2 Paragraph 12b of the Residence Act). A residence permit pursuant to Section 18a of the Residence Act cannot therefore be issued for assistant activities. You can research whether the activity you are seeking is qualified employment in the Federal Employment Agency's occupational directory (freely available online) .
2.3 Approval of the Federal Employment Agency
Furthermore, Section 18a of the Residence Act also requires that the Federal Employment Agency approve the issuance of the residence permit . During the approval process, the Federal Employment Agency examines, in particular, theskilled worker's salary and the legality of the general working conditions (especially working hours, rest breaks, and vacation regulations). According to the Berlin Immigration Office, the involvement of the Federal Employment Agency is unnecessary when extending a residence permit for the purpose of employment under Section 18a of the Residence Act if the activity remains unchanged (VAB to Section 18a). After two years of employment, an unrestricted and unlimited work permit can be issued (Section 9 of the Employment Ordinance).
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!
2.4 Professional license
If you apply for a residence permit to pursue a regulated activity , you must also apply for a professional practice permit. Regulated professions are those for which the government requires a special permit to practice the activity (e.g., nursing professionals ). Most professional activities are not regulated. You can find out whether an activity is regulated by checking the Federal Employment Agency's occupational directory . We have also written a separate VISAGUARD article on regulated professions .
2.5 No language skills § 18a
Contrary to popular belief, knowledge of German is not required to apply for a residence permit under Section 18a of the Residence Act. Knowledge of German is only required if the language is a prerequisite for practicing the profession (e.g., for nursing staff). However, there is no general regulation requiring all skilled workers under Section 18a of the Residence Act to demonstrate German language skills. Nevertheless, it may be advisable to start learning German early, as B1 language skills are required for the settlement permit and naturalization (see also below).
2.6 General requirements § 18a
Finally, the general requirements for issuing a residence permit pursuant to Section 5 of the Residence Act must also be met in order for a residence permit to be issued pursuant to Section 18a of the Residence Act. This means, in particular, that you must have a valid passport and a place to live. If you are older than 45, you must either receive a higher salary or provide proof of adequate retirement benefits (Section 18 (2) No. 5 of the Residence Act). Further information on the general requirements for issuing a residence permit can be found in the "Requirements for a Residence Permit" section.
3. Administrative procedure for Section 18a of the Residence Act
3.1 § 18a as a visa at the embassy
The application is usually submitted prior to entry at the relevant German diplomatic mission (embassy or consulate). A national visa must be applied for there, which will later be converted into a residence permit in Germany. It is advisable to make an appointment at the embassy or consulate well in advance, as waiting times are often long. Further information can be found in our visa guide .
3.2 Conversion into residence permit
After entering Germany with the appropriate visa, the actual residence permit must be applied for at the relevant immigration office at your place of residence . This step is necessary to legally secure your stay beyond the visa. Appointments are usually made online or by phone, and it's important to bring all the required documents with you to avoid delays.
In many cities, applications are now also offered digitally ( see, for example, the contact form of the State Office for Immigration (LEA) regarding Section 18a of the Residence Act ). Forms can be submitted in advance and appointments booked via the immigration authorities' online portals. Digital communication accelerates the process and significantly reduces the effort required by applicants. Nevertheless, it remains important to prepare the documents carefully and ensure a structured procedure.
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!
Because the process can be complex, many applicants seek the help of specialized immigration lawyers or professional counseling centers. These provide support with communication with authorities, compiling documents, and submitting applications on time. Timely advice increases the chances of success and ensures a smooth process.
4. Rights and obligations § 18a Residence Act
4.1 Changing jobs § 18a Residence Act
Unfortunately, changing employers under Section 18a of the Residence Act is relatively complicated, as the immigration authorities must first issue a new work permit . Some immigration authorities request new approval from the Federal Employment Agency for this, which further prolongs the process. Therefore, you must always apply for a change of employer under Section 18a of the Residence Act and cannot begin your new job until you have received official permission. The application can be submitted online at larger immigration authorities, and by email or mail at smaller authorities.
4.2 Family reunification (Section 18a)
Family reunification for skilled workers under Section 18a of the Residence Act is relatively straightforward in Germany. Thanks to the regulations governing skilled workers, spouses and children of qualified skilled workers can generally join them without any problems – a major advantage is that no proof of German language skills is required (see Section 30, Paragraph 1, Sentence 3, No. 5 of the Residence Act ). This significantly simplifies family reunification and makes Germany particularly attractive for international skilled workers.
4.3 Settlement permit (Section 18a)
Skilled workers with a residence permit under Section 18a of the Residence Act can apply for a settlement permit after just three years (settlement permit for skilled workers). Requirements include sufficient German language skills at level B1 and proof of pension insurance contributions. Since Section 18a is a recognized case of Section 18c, qualified skilled workers benefit from an accelerated path to a permanent residence permit in Germany. Further information on applying for a settlement permit under Section 18a of the Residence Act can be found in the " Requirements for a Settlement Permit " section.
4.4 Naturalization under Section 18a of the Residence Act
Skilled workers with a residence permit under Section 18a of the Residence Act also have the opportunity to become a German citizen under certain conditions. Anyone who has lived legally in Germany for at least five years, has sufficient German language skills (at least B1 level), a secure livelihood, and has not committed any criminal offenses can generally apply for German citizenship. Section 18a of the Residence Act is therefore one of the residence permits that allows for direct application for naturalization (without going through the process of obtaining a settlement permit) . Nevertheless, we recommend applying for a settlement permit. Therefore, the naturalization process can take a very long time, and holding a settlement permit during this time secures your stay (e.g., if you lose your job).
Further information on naturalization can be found in the corresponding VISAGUARD guide to obtaining a German passport .
What is a residence permit according to Section 18a of the Residence Act?
The residence permit under Section 18a of the Residence Act is aimed at professionally qualified specialists with in-company vocational training. It allows employment in Germany if certain requirements are met.
How long is the residence permit valid under Section 18a?
The validity depends on the duration of the employment relationship and the approval of the Federal Employment Agency. For permanent employment, the residence permit can be issued for up to four years.
Do I need a visa for Section 18a of the Residence Act?
Generally, yes. Applications are made at the relevant German embassy or consulate. Entry with a Schengen visa is not permitted and can cause problems.
Is knowledge of German a prerequisite for Section 18a?
No, general language skills are not required to obtain a residence permit. Exceptions apply only if German is necessary for professional practice (e.g., nursing professions).
Can I change employers under Section 18a?
A change is possible, but requires prior approval from the immigration authorities. In some cases, a new approval from the Federal Employment Agency is also required.
Is family reunification permitted under Section 18a?
Yes, spouses and children can usually join them without any problems. A language certificate (A1) for spouses is not required when joining skilled workers under Section 18a.
When can I obtain a settlement permit under Section 18a?
After three years of residence under Section 18a, skilled workers can apply for a permanent settlement permit – including those with a B1 language level and sufficient pension contributions.
The residence permit under Section 18a of the Residence Act offers professionally qualified specialists with in-company or vocational training an attractive opportunity to work and establish a permanent foothold in Germany. The prerequisites are, in particular, the recognition of foreign training and the existence of a qualified employment relationship. Approval from the Federal Employment Agency and—depending on the profession—a professional practice permit may also be required.
The application process for Section 18a of the Residence Act generally involves first applying for a visa at the German diplomatic mission abroad and then obtaining a residence permit from the immigration authorities in Germany. While knowledge of German is not mandatory for obtaining this permit, it is necessary for obtaining a settlement permit and naturalization.
Further information
Apply for § 18a Residence Act at the State Office for Immigration (LEA) in Berlin
Recognition in Germany (Official Portal of the Federal Government)
“Recognition Finder” of the Federal Government
List of sources
[1] Timmermann/Uznanski/Mävers/Klaus, Employment of foreign workers, 2nd ed. 2025
[2] Huber/Eichenhofer/Endres de Oliveira, Residence Law, 2nd edition 2025, § 18a
[4] Administrative instructions for residence in Berlin (VAB), as of 18 February 2025, Section 18a
Section 18a of the Act on the Residence, Employment and Integration of Foreigners in the Federal Territory (Residence Act - AufenthG) of 25 February 2008 (Federal Law Gazette I p. 162), last amended by Article 3 of the Act of 25 October 2024 (Federal Law Gazette 2024 I No. 332)
