Federal Republic of Germany · work unsponsored
Job Seeker visa (§20 AufenthG)
By Sam Parks · Last reviewed:
Up to 6-month residence permit for qualified workers to seek employment in Germany (largely superseded by Chancenkarte).
- Processing time
- Similar to other national visas.
- Government fees
- €75 visa fee.
- Typical duration
- Up to 6 months, non-renewable.
- Sponsorship required
- No
- Leads to permanent residency
- No
Overview
The §20 Job Seeker visa historically allowed up to 6 months in Germany to seek qualifying employment. Since the Chancenkarte launched in June 2024 and offers a longer validity with limited work rights, Chancenkarte is typically the stronger option for most applicants. The Job Seeker visa remains available.
Eligibility
Typical criteria
- ✓Recognised degree.
- ✓Proof of funds for the search period.
- ✓Health insurance cover.
Common blockers
- !Chancenkarte now offers better terms for most applicants.
Typical evidence
- ·Degree and anabin confirmation.
- ·Funds evidence.
Application pathway
Consider Chancenkarte first
Compare Chancenkarte eligibility and rights before applying for the older Job Seeker visa.
Apply for Job Seeker visa
Submit at German consulate.
Convert on securing offer
Change status to Blue Card, §18a/§18b, or other appropriate residence permit.
Official application links
Where to actually go next
These are the official pages to use for this route. Open them before preparing documents: the forms, fees, appointment systems, and sponsor steps can change without warning.
- Official guidanceApplicantCheck Job Seeker visa steps ↗
Use this official page for the academic Job Seeker visa requirements and mission appointment process.
German Federal Foreign Office · verified
- ApplyApplicantCompare with Opportunity Card ↗
Use the official Opportunity Card application page to compare the newer job-search route before choosing Job Seeker.
German Federal Foreign Office · verified
Fees and processing time
Indicative government fees: €75 visa fee.. A decision then typically takes 4 weeks – 3 months. Both change over time, so the dedicated pages below carry the itemised breakdown and the current official figures.
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Frequently asked questions
Can I work on the Job Seeker visa?+
No. Unlike the Chancenkarte, the §20 Job Seeker visa does not permit work. That is the main reason Chancenkarte has become the dominant option.
Should I use the older Job Seeker visa or the Chancenkarte to look for work in Germany?+
For most applicants the Chancenkarte is the stronger option, because it offers a longer validity and limited work rights, whereas the §20 Job Seeker visa lasts up to 6 months, is non-renewable, and does not permit any work. The Job Seeker visa remains available, mainly for university graduates who do not meet the Chancenkarte points threshold.
Does the Job Seeker visa lead to permanent residence?+
No. The §20 Job Seeker visa does not lead to settlement on its own and is non-renewable. To stay long-term you change status to a Blue Card, a §18a/§18b Skilled Worker permit, or another appropriate residence permit once you secure an offer.
Need tailored advice?
We do not provide legal advice. For an application that depends on your exact circumstances, consult a regulator-listed immigration advisor.
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