From Ukraine to Germany
Entry & visa rule
Visa-free for short stays, but a national (D) visa is required to live and work in Germany.
Popular paths for your nationality
Skilled Worker (Vocational, § 18a)
Work permit for people with a recognised vocational qualification (at least 2 years of training) — nurses, ele…
§ 18g AufenthGEU Blue Card
The premium work permit for academics with a job offer above a salary threshold. Fastest route to permanent re…
§§ 20a, 20b AufenthGOpportunity Card
A 12-month residence permit to come to Germany and look for a job — without a job offer. You qualify either as…
Embassy & application notes
Displaced Ukrainians usually hold temporary protection under § 24 AufenthG with immediate work access — a separate track from the work visas covered here.
Frequently asked questions
Do Ukrainian citizens need a visa for Germany?
Visa-free for short stays, but a national (D) visa is required to live and work in Germany.
Does my degree need to be recognised in Germany?
Check your university in the anabin database; a ZAB Statement of Comparability may be needed for skilled-worker permits.
Last verified: 21 July 2026