§ 18b AufenthG
Residence permit for skilled workers with academic training
The general work permit for university graduates with a recognised degree and a qualified job offer — no fixed salary threshold if you are under 45. Since 2023 you may work in ANY qualified job, not only one matching your degree.
Last verified: 21 July 2026 · Legal basis: § 18b AufenthG
Duration
48 months
Up to 4 years (or contract length); renewable.
Family
Spouse and minor children can join; the spouse gets full labour market access. Basic German (A1) is normally required for the spouse visa, with exceptions.
Permanent residence
Permanent residence after 3 years of holding the permit with 36 pension contribution months and sufficient German (§ 18c Abs. 1 AufenthG). Graduates of German universities: after 2 years.
Financial thresholds
| Only if 45 or older at first issuance (2026) | €55,770
(Source: § 18 Abs. 2 Nr. 5 AufenthG,
Last verified 21 July 2026)
|
Requirements
- Recognised or German-comparable university degree anabin H+ university and comparable degree, or ZAB Statement of Comparability.
- Concrete job offer for qualified employment Qualified = typically requires a degree or vocational training; helpers/unskilled roles don't qualify.
- Approval of the Federal Employment Agency (working conditions comparable to local workers)
- If you are 45+: salary ≥ €55,770 (2026) or proof of adequate pension provision €55,770 (Source: § 18 Abs. 2 Nr. 5 AufenthG — 55% of 2026 pension contribution ceiling (101,400 €), Last verified 21 July 2026)
How to apply
- Confirm degree comparability anabin lookup; order ZAB statement if your degree/university isn't clearly listed.Official page ↗
- Have the employer fill the 'Erklärung zum Beschäftigungsverhältnis' Standard BA form describing salary, hours and duties — required for the BA approval.Official page ↗
- Apply via the Consular Services Portal (or in Germany if eligible) Consider the accelerated procedure (§ 81a): your employer initiates it at the Ausländerbehörde, cutting waiting times significantly (fee €411).Official page ↗
- Register and convert after arrival Anmeldung within 14 days, then collect your electronic residence permit at the Ausländerbehörde.
Frequently asked questions
Is there a minimum salary under 45?
No fixed number — the BA checks that pay and conditions are comparable to German employees in that role and region, and the job must be qualified employment.
Can I take a job outside my degree field?
Yes. Since the 2023 reform, § 18b allows any qualified employment — a physicist can work as a software developer.
§ 18b or Blue Card — which should I pick?
If you clear the Blue Card threshold, take the Blue Card: faster PR (21/27 months vs 36) and easier family reunification. § 18b is the fallback below the threshold.