Post-Study Work Visa in Germany: Requirements and Benefits for Students (2025 Guide)

International students in Germany can apply for an 18-month Post-Study Work Visa after graduation to find a job related to their degree. Applicants must hold a German university degree, valid health insurance, and proof of funds (€934/month). Once employed, they can switch to a Work Visa or EU Blue Card, leading to permanent residency. This visa offers global graduates a clear path to build their careers in Germany.

Germany has become one of the top destinations for international students, thanks to its world-class education, low tuition costs, and excellent career opportunities.
But what makes it even more appealing is that students can stay and work in Germany after graduation — through the Post-Study Work Visa (PSWV), also known as the Residence Permit for Job Seekers.

This guide explains everything you need to know about the Post-Study Work Visa in Germany, including requirements, benefits, duration and how to apply.

What Is a Post-Study Work Visa in Germany?

The Post-Study Work Visa (or Job-Seeker Visa) allows international graduates of German universities to stay in Germany for up to 18 months after completing their studies to search for a full-time job related to their degree.

Once you secure employment, you can apply for a German Work Visa or a EU Blue Card to continue living and working in Germany.

This visa gives you the flexibility to transition smoothly from education to employment in one of Europe’s strongest economies.

Duration of the Post-Study Work Visa

• Valid for 18 months (1.5 years) after graduation.
• Start from the date your final exam results are published, not your graduation ceremony.
• During this period, you can work part-time or full-time while searching for a job in your field.

If you find a job before your 18 months expire, you can immediately switch to a work visa or EU Blue Card.

Eligibility Requirements for a Post-Study Work Visa in Germany

To qualify for the Post-Study Work Visa, you must meet the following conditions:

1. Completed a Degree in Germany
   • You must hold a recognized degree (Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD) from a German university.
2. Valid Residence Permit for Studies
   • You must have held a student residence permit before graduation.
3. Proof of Financial Means
   • You must show you can support yourself during the job-search period (approx. €934/month).
   • Accepted proofs include blocked accounts, bank statements, or sponsorship letters.
4. Health Insurance
   • Continuous valid health insurance is mandatory during your stay.
5. Proof of Accommodation
   • You must provide an address or rental contract in Germany.

Documents Required for Application

When applying for the Post-Study Work Visa, prepare the following documents:

Document	Details
Valid Passport	With at least 6 months validity
Proof of Degree	Official certificate or confirmation from university
Proof of Financial Resources	€934/month or equivalent
Proof of Health Insurance	Public or private coverage
Proof of Address	Rental agreement or registration form
Biometric Photos	2 recent passport-sized photos
Application Form	Filled and signed residence permit form

Always check your local Ausländerbehörde (Foreigners’ Office) for the latest requirements.

Where and How to Apply

1. Apply at the Local Foreigner’s Office (Ausländerbehörde)
   • Visit your city’s foreign office before your student visa expires.
2. Submit Required Documents
   • Provide your passport, proof of graduation, and financial documents.
3. Pay the Application Fee
   • Around €100–€150 depending on the city.
4. Receive Residence Permit
   • The process usually takes 4–6 weeks.

Tip: Apply 1–2 months before your student visa expires to avoid any gap in residence status.

Working During the 18-Month Period

During the job-search period, you can:

• Work unlimited hours in any field (not just your area of study).
• Gain valuable experience through internships, part-time jobs, or full-time roles.
• Once you find a job related to your degree, you can transition to:
  • German Work Visa, or
  • EU Blue Card (if you meet the salary threshold)

Salary threshold for EU Blue Card (2025): approx. €45,300/year (varies by occupation).

Benefits of the Post-Study Work Visa in Germany

1. Stay up to 18 months to find a job
2. Work full-time or part-time while searching
3. Apply for PR (Permanent Residency) after 5 years
4. Option to apply for the EU Blue Card
5. High employability — Germany has a strong demand for skilled graduates
6. No need to leave the country after graduation
7. Affordable living and career stability

After You Find a Job

Once you receive a job offer related to your degree, you can apply for one of these:

1. German Work Visa (Residence Permit for Employment)

• For full-time jobs related to your academic qualification.
• Usually valid for 2–4 years.

2. EU Blue Card

• For high-skilled professionals with higher salaries.
• Allows mobility across EU countries.
• Pathway to permanent residence after 33 months (or 21 months with German language proficiency).

Conclusion

Germany’s Post-Study Work Visa is a golden opportunity for international students to start their career and settle in Europe.
With up to 18 months of stay-back permission, flexible work options and a pathway to Permanent Residency, Germany stands out as one of the best destinations for global graduates.

Start preparing early. Keep your documents ready, maintain health insurance, and explore job fairs or university career services to boost your employability.

Your German degree is not just an education — it’s a gateway to a thriving international career. 

Frequently Asked Questions