How to get a work visa for startup job in Germany?

To get a work visa for a startup job in Germany, you need a valid job offer from the startup and to meet the requirements for a German employment visa or the EU Blue Card, depending on your salary and qualifications.

If the job meets the EU Blue Card salary threshold and is in a relevant skilled occupation, you can apply for the Blue Card, which offers a faster path to permanent residency. If it does not meet the Blue Card requirements, you can still apply for a standard work visa as a qualified professional, but you must prove that your qualifications match the job and that the position could not be easily filled by an EU citizen.

Your employer must be registered and capable of offering legal employment in Germany. For startups, immigration authorities may request additional proof of the company’s legitimacy and financial stability. You will also need to show evidence of your professional qualifications, a signed employment contract, and sufficient funds to support yourself until your salary is paid.

You can apply for the visa at the German embassy or consulate in your country of residence. Processing times can vary but often take several weeks to a few months.