How to Find a Job in Germany (2025): Guide for Expats Starting Fresh

Shivam Singh Chaudhary
Jun 3, 2025
3 min read

Welcome to the Hustle: Job Hunting in Germany Starts Here

Let’s be honest — moving countries is one thing, but finding a job in a new system, in a new language, with new rules? That’s a different beast. Whether you’ve just landed in Berlin or been around for a while, this guide helps you navigate the German job market without losing your mind.

This isn’t your typical “just use LinkedIn” advice. It’s built for Newsettlers — people like you who are not just surviving abroad, but building a life here.

Which Jobs Are in Demand in Germany Right Now?

Germany is facing labor shortages in several industries. If you’ve got experience (or are willing to train), here’s where the doors are open:

IT & Software Development – From startups to corporates, developers and engineers are gold.
Healthcare Workers – Doctors, nurses, and elder-care professionals are highly needed.
Engineers – Especially in automotive, renewable energy, and mechanical sectors.
Craftspeople & Skilled Trades – Electricians, plumbers, welders — yes, really.
Education – Teachers (especially STEM and English) are in short supply.
Logistics & Warehousing – Think Amazon, DHL, and countless smaller suppliers.

If you have language skills, that’s a huge bonus — but some roles are English-first, especially in tech, research, and international firms.

Where to Actually Find Jobs (That Don’t Waste Your Time)

Forget endlessly scrolling through outdated listings. Start here instead:

Newsettle Jobs Board (coming soon) – Yep, we’re curating jobs for our global community.
Indeed.de, StepStone, Monster Germany – Use filters for English-speaking roles.
LinkedIn Germany – Join local groups and follow companies that are hiring.
Make it in Germany (official gov site) – Great for visa-backed job offers.
EURES Portal – Especially if you’re already in the EU.
Industry-specific sites – Like Academics.de for research roles or Jobvector for STEM.

Pro tip: Many German employers still love a motivated cold email with a sharp CV + cover letter.

The Application Game: German-Style

Don’t just copy-paste your US or UK-style CV. Here’s what works here:

Lebenslauf (CV) – Reverse chronological, no fluff, include photo (yes, it’s still common).
Anschreiben (Cover Letter) – Custom-written for each job. Show them you did your homework.
References & Degrees – Include them as PDFs in your application pack.
Language Level – If you speak German, mention your CEFR level (A1–C2).

Need templates? We’ll drop a free toolkit for Newsettlers soon

Work Permits & Visa 101

If you're not an EU citizen, you’ll need one of these:

EU Blue Card – For skilled workers earning €45,300+ annually (or lower for shortage jobs).
Skilled Worker Visa – If your qualifications match Germany’s approved list.
Job Seeker Visa – Gives you 6 months in Germany to job hunt while living here.

Note: Your university degree may need to be recognized by German authorities for regulated professions.

What Happens After You Get the Job?

Welcome to the system:

You’ll sign a contract (Arbeitsvertrag) — read the fine print!

Your employer will register you for social security: health insurance, pension, unemployment.
You’ll need a tax ID (Steuer-ID), which you get automatically after Anmeldung (city registration).
Most jobs have a probation period (3–6 months).

Final Words from Newsettle

Finding a job abroad is overwhelming — but also empowering. You’re not just looking for a paycheck. You’re looking for your place.

At Newsettle, we’re building the guide we wish we had when we moved here. From CV makeovers to first-rent scams, we're covering it all.