Skilled worker visa for experienced professionals without formal degrees. €45,630/year minimum salary. 2+ years experience required. Settlement after 3 years.
Experienced professionals without formal degrees, IT workers, tradespeople
Entry-level workers, those without verifiable work experience
At a Glance
Eligibility Requirements
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Age Range | 18+ |
| Education Required | — |
| Job Offer Required | Yes |
| Sponsor Required | Yes |
| Remote Income Allowed | No |
| Family Accompaniment Allowed | Yes |
| Language Requirement | — |
Application Process
- 1Confirm eligibilityVerify you meet the age, education, and financial requirements above. Use our free eligibility quiz to score your fit against Germany's Experience-Based Skilled Worker (§19c).
- 2Gather documentsPassport, recent photos, criminal record check, proof of accommodation, financial statements, health insurance, and any sponsor or employer letter.
- 3Submit applicationFile the application with the relevant Germany immigration authority — usually online or at the consulate in your home country.
- 4Pay fees & attend appointmentPay the application fee (€113). Some applicants are required to attend a biometrics or interview appointment.
- 5Wait for decisionTypical processing: 2–4 months. Decision is communicated by email or via the official portal.
Cost & Financial Requirements
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Minimum Annual Salary | €45,636 |
| Minimum Monthly Income | — |
| Minimum Investment | — |
| Application Fee | €113 |
Family & Long-term Rights
| Right | Details |
|---|---|
| Family Allowed | Yes |
| Renewable | Yes |
| Path to PR | Yes |
| Path to Citizenship | Yes |
| Years to Citizenship | 6 |
| Dual Citizenship Allowed | Yes |
| Spouse Work Rights | Yes |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Experience-Based Skilled Worker (§19c)?
Skilled worker visa for experienced professionals without formal degrees. €45,630/year minimum salary. 2+ years experience required. Settlement after 3 years.
Who is the Experience-Based Skilled Worker (§19c) best for?
Experienced professionals without formal degrees, IT workers, tradespeople
How long does the Experience-Based Skilled Worker (§19c) take to process?
Processing typically takes 2–4 months. Times may vary based on nationality, completeness of documentation, and current processing volumes.
What does the Experience-Based Skilled Worker (§19c) cost?
The application fee is €113. Total relocation cost depends on living costs, insurance, and document attestation.
Does the Experience-Based Skilled Worker (§19c) lead to permanent residency?
Yes — this pathway has a path to PR.
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Official source: https://www.bva.bund.de
Last verified: 2026-03-05