Do you know that the population of non-German skilled software developers is increasing in Germany? Yes, currently, there are 66000 skilled software developers residing in Germany. As per recent data, over 23% of IT professional roles are occupied by foreign professionals. As a result, thousands of highly qualified individuals intend to move to Germany each year to work as IT specialists.
If you also wondered how the application process works for the Germany Skilled Worker Visa for a Software Developer, this article is for you. Here, you will get every insightful detail about the same. But, before proceeding, let us understand that it is really good to move to Germany as a Software Developer.
Is it really good to move to Germany as a Software Developer?
Yes, because Germany is considered one of the preferred destinations among skilled software developers. The major companies in Germany are experiencing a growing skill shortage (mainly in STEM occupations). Therefore, to cope with these shortages, Germany has turned towards, international job market to address the skill shortage problem.
The German Government has also supported these changes by introducing, fast-paced visa and an easier migration pathway for skilled professionals.
Steps to move to Germany as a Software Developer
Moving to Germany involves a structured process that should be followed carefully. However, sometimes a candidate feels overwhelmed by the multiple-step application process. Therefore, we have provided a step-by-step guide for you should follow to explore new career prospects.
Understand the Job Market for Software Developers in Germany
Before considering migrating to any country, it is important to understand its job market, so does with Germany. The German tech industry is thriving, with Berlin, Munich, Hamburg, and Frankfurt leading the innovation.
There are top tech firms like SAP, Siemens, and Deutsche Telekom based in Germany, and an increasingly popular startup culture in Berlin, commonly known as “Silicon Allee.”
Software developers, particularly those who have experience in areas such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, cybersecurity, and blockchain, are in great demand. However, there is a lot of competition, so the right skills and experience can make all the difference.
The most-in-demand area under the Software Developer field includes:
- Full-stack and backend development
- Mobile and web development (React, Angular, Swift, Kotlin)
- Cloud computing (AWS, Azure)
- DevOps and automation
- AI and machine learning
Get a Job offer
While this step isn’t mandatory, securing a job offer can ease your immigration journey to Germany. However, most German employers usually require a degree in computer science or a related field, whereas highly skilled and self-taught professionals can also access better career opportunities if they possess a strong portfolio or relevant work experience.
The most common programming languages, which are in demand in Germany, are Java, Python, JavaScript, C++, and Ruby. If you have strong familiarity with these languages, your chances of landing a job in Germany will automatically increase.
Which Job Boards to Use to Secure a Job Offer in Germany?
There are multiple job boards available, which you can use t secure a job offer in Germany. Some of them are listed below:
- Indeed
- Steptone
- Monster Germany
- Glassdoor
- Arbeitnow
- Jobware
Visa Options Available for Software Developers
To live or work in Germany, you will require a valid residence permit or visa. The well-known or most popular immigration program for skilled foreign software developers is listed below:
For EU/EEA/Swiss Citizens
If you are an EU/EEA/Swiss citizen, you do not need to apply for any visa to work in Germany. You only need to register with your local authorities upon your arrival in Germany.
For Non-EU/EEA/Swiss Citizens
To work in Germany, you need a valid residence permit or visa if you are not from the EU, EEA, or Switzerland. For software engineers, Germany offers two primary visa choices.
- EU Blue Card: The EU Blue Card is one of the well-known, yet most popular visa programs among skilled professionals. This visa program is primarily designed for highly trained professionals with a university degree or equivalent work experience. To qualify for this visa program, you are required to have a valid job offer, with a salary range meeting the salary threshold (which is around €56,800/per year).
- Germany Opportunity Card: The Germany Opportunity Card is a newly launched visa program which allows skilled professionals to migrate to Germany and look for career opportunities without having a job offer. This visa program is valid for one year and it is extendable up to upto two years.
Apply for Recognition of your Education Credentials
If you hold a non-German degree, it is necessary to have your qualification recognised as meeting German standards. This recognition process ensures that your foreign educational credentials align with the German education standards.
The Central Office for Foreign Education (ZAB) is where you can submit your educational qualifications for recognition.
The process time can take several months, so candidates should start early. However, in some cases, your employer may help you with the recognition process as some job roles might require for specific level of qualification.
Start your Life in Germany
Though English is more commonly spoken in the tech sector, learning some German will make a big difference in daily and social life. German language skills are not always a must for the tech sector, but communicating in German will make it easier to adapt to local culture and perform everyday tasks.
Language Skills:
- A1–A2: Everyday conversation skills; good enough for shopping, travelling, and occasional tasks.
- B1–B2: More professional communication and social integration are required at this level.
- C1–C2: Advanced language skills, frequently necessary for work outside the tech industry.
Most German cities have cheap language courses. Learning some basic expressions before you go and taking proper classes when you are there is a good idea.
Cultural Adjustment
German work culture is well-organised and punctual, and although there is a good work-life balance, professionalism and efficiency are expected. A sense of social norms and office etiquette will help you gel with the local crowd more.
Cost of Living and Salary Expectations
Germany provides a good quality of life, but the living expenses can differ significantly from city to city. Major cities such as Munich and Frankfurt tend to be expensive, while smaller cities or towns are comparatively cheaper.
Average software developer salaries:
- Junior Developers: €45,000 – €55,000 annually
- Mid-level Developers: €55,000 – €75,000 annually
- Senior Developers: €75,000 – €100,000+ annually
Overall cost of living in a city like Berlin or Munich might be steep, but the public transport is excellent, and the healthcare is top-notch. The majority of software developers also have great vacation days (normally 25-30 days annually), and lots of companies even provide flexible work schedules.
What’s Next?
Germany is a favourite among talented software developers, boasting a population of more than 66,000 citizens. Germany is struggling with an increasing skill deficit in STEM jobs, resulting in high-speed visas and streamlined migration channels.
Cloud computing, DevOps, AI, full-stack, web, and mobile are some of the most sought-after domains. Candidates must have a solid portfolio and a computer science degree to increase their employability. The German Opportunity Card and the EU Blue Card are two visa choices. German proficiency is necessary for social integration and daily tasks.
If you still have queries and concerns regarding the application process for Germany migration as a software developer, reach out to Keymart Visa via +91 9911338722 or info@keymartvisa.com
