§ 18a AufenthG
Skilled Worker (Vocational, § 18a): from Colombia to Germany
Work permit for people with a recognised vocational qualification (at least 2 years of training) — nurses, electricians, mechatronics technicians, hospitality professionals and many more. German recognition of the qualification is the key step.
Requirements
- German recognition of your vocational qualification (Anerkennung) Apply via the competent body for your profession (find it via the Recognition Finder). Partial recognition can be bridged in Germany via § 16d.
- Concrete offer for qualified employment
- Federal Employment Agency approval
- If 45+: salary ≥ €55,770 (2026) or adequate pension provision
Financial thresholds (2026)
- Only if 45 or older at first issuance (2026): €55,770
How to apply
- Start recognition early Recognition can take 3–6 months. Use 'Anerkennung in Deutschland' to find the competent body; regulated professions (nursing, healthcare) always need full recognition.Official page ↗
- Secure the job offer Employer completes the BA employment declaration; consider the accelerated procedure § 81a via the employer.
- Apply via the Consular Services Portal Upload recognition notice, contract, passport; short biometrics appointment afterwards.Official page ↗
- Arrive, register, collect permit Anmeldung within 14 days, then the Ausländerbehörde issues the electronic residence permit.
Full details, FAQs and sources for this path: Residence permit for skilled workers with vocational training → · Back to Colombia →