§ 18a AufenthG
Residence permit for skilled workers with vocational training
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.
Last verified: 21 July 2026 · Legal basis: § 18a AufenthG
Duration
48 months
Up to 4 years; renewable.
Family
Spouse and minor children can join with full labour market access for the spouse; A1 German usually required for the spouse visa.
Permanent residence
Permanent residence after 3 years with 36 pension months and sufficient German (§ 18c Abs. 1 AufenthG).
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
- 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 €55,770 (Source: § 18 Abs. 2 Nr. 5 AufenthG — 55% of 2026 pension contribution ceiling, Last verified 21 July 2026)
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.
Frequently asked questions
My qualification was only partially recognised — now what?
Two options: come via § 16d (recognition partnership / adaptation measures) and complete the missing parts in Germany, or collect 4 points for partial recognition on the Chancenkarte.
Do I need to speak German?
The law doesn't set a general level for § 18a, but regulated professions do (e.g. nursing usually B2), and the visa section checks you can do the job. Realistically: learn German.
Which professions are in demand?
Nursing, elderly care, electricians, HVAC/plumbing, mechatronics, drivers, hospitality, construction trades — Germany's shortage list is long and vocational workers are actively recruited.