Post-Study Work Visa
Everything about applying for the Posty-Study Workvisa in Germany.
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Here you learn ...
what a post-study work visa is
How to get the Post-Study Workvisa in Germany
what are the requirements for the Post-Study Workvisa
what happens after the post-study work visa
Table of contents
1. What is a post-study work visa?
2. Apply for a post-study work visa
3. Post-study work visa in Berlin
4. Special features of post-study work visas
5. FAQ
6. Conclusion
1. What is a post-study work visa?
The so-called Post-Study Work Visa is a residence permit that allows international graduates of German universities to remain in Germany to seek employment . Legally, it is a residence permit for job search purposes under Section 20 of the Residence Act . This visa allows you to stay in the country for up to 18 months after successfully completing your studies in Germany and actively search for a suitable position – without having to already have an employment contract.
The Post-Study Work Visa differs significantly from the Opportunity Card , which is intended for skilled workers with degrees acquired abroad. This visa is aimed exclusively at individuals with a German university degree. In addition to job searches, any type of employment is permitted – whether employed, self-employed, or freelance. This provides maximum flexibility for starting a career in Germany.
2. Apply for a post-study work visa
After successfully completing your studies, you can apply for a post-study work visa directly at the relevant immigration office in your country. The prerequisite is that you have completed your studies at a recognized German university . The application must be submitted in good time before your current residence permit expires. The most important documents are a valid passport, a recent biometric photo, your graduation certificate, proof of health insurance, and proof of financial security for the requested period.
A major advantage: The residence permit is usually granted for 18 months, which offers more flexibility for job hunting than other job-seeking visas. During this time, any type of employment is permitted (significantly more than the 140 full or 280 half days permitted under Section 16b of the Residence Act). There is even a right to be granted a residence permit—the authorities have no discretion here if all requirements are met. This makes this visa a very attractive option for graduates who want to establish a professional foothold in Germany.
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!
3. Post-study work visa in Berlin
Berlin is one of the most popular destinations for international students and young professionals. The State Office for Immigration (LEA) is responsible for processing applications for the post-study work visa. Applications can be conveniently submitted online or by email (see the LEA contact form ). Due to the high number of applications in Berlin, early preparation and, ideally, legal support are recommended to avoid delays.
The Berlin Immigration Office recognizes the special status of graduates of German universities. The application process is relatively straightforward, and access to jobs in international companies, startups, and the public sector is particularly diverse in Berlin. Those who wish to stay in Berlin can flexibly plan their careers with the Post-Study Work Visa while simultaneously taking advantage of all the opportunities offered by the German labor market.
4. Special features of the Post-Study Work Visa
A key feature of the Post-Study Work Visa is that it is granted for up to 18 months— significantly longer than the six months provided for other Jobseeker visa variants. The permission to work without restrictions during this time is also a clear advantage. This allows graduates not only to look for jobs but also to gain practical experience, work independently, or become entrepreneurs.
Another advantage is that no separate recognition of the degree is necessary. Since it is a German university degree, the qualifications are automatically recognized. There is also a legal right to a residence permit if the legal requirements are met. Those who successfully complete the job search phase can then directly transfer to a work visa, such as an EU Blue Card or a skilled worker visa (Section 18b) .
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!
5. FAQ on the Post-Study Work Visa for Germany
What is the Post-Study Work Visa?
The Post-Study Work Visa is a residence permit under Section 20 of the Residence Act (AufenthG), which allows international graduates of German universities to stay in Germany for up to 18 months to find a suitable job. During this time, any type of employment is permitted—including self-employment or freelance work.
Who can apply for the visa?
Foreign students who have successfully completed their studies at a recognized German university are eligible. The visa can be applied for directly at the relevant immigration office. Foreign degrees do not qualify for the post-study work visa.
How does the visa differ from the opportunity card?
The Opportunity Card is aimed at skilled workers with foreign degrees. The Post-Study Work Visa, on the other hand, is intended exclusively for graduates with German university degrees and offers significantly more freedom in job searches and professional practice.
6. Conclusion Post-Study Work Visa
The Post-Study Work Visa is the ideal follow-up stay for international students who want to launch their careers in Germany. It provides legal security and opens up a wide range of opportunities in the German labor market. With unrestricted permission to work and an extended stay of 18 months, it is a key tool for attracting skilled workers. Those who can support themselves and have a recognized qualification have a very good chance of a successful application. VISAGUARD is happy to assist you with all legal questions related to the application process.
For further information, please see our guide to the Jobseeker Visa after graduation or book an appointment directly with a specialist lawyer on VISAGUARD.Berlin.
List of sources
[1] Bergmann / Dienelt, Aliens Law, 15th edition 2025, § 20
[2] Regarding the (denied) possibility of multiple Job Seeker Visas upon completion of several study programs, see Administrative Court Aachen, decision of 02.12.2013 - 4 L 217/13
