Under the 2005 Immigration Act, there are now three categories of residence permit for employment purposes: General employment, Specialist professional and Self-Employed.

In order to obtain a General Employment Permit, it is necessary to hold a vocational qualification and a firm job offer.

Specialist Professional permits are issued to graduates, university teachers and experienced managers who are offered a job with an annual salary of at least 86,400 Euros. Applicants for this category of permit are required to show proof of sufficient funds to maintain themselves without drawing on the benefits system, and the ability to integrate into German society. The company must confirm that no suitable German national is available to fill the post.

People planning to work on a self-employed basis in Germany must demonstrate that their business will meet specified national or local needs and have a positive economic impact, and must be able to fully finance the business from their own capital or confirmed bank loan.

Documents required for work permit applications are:

1. Two copies of the relevant application form
2. Two passport-sized colour photographs.
3. Original passport plus two copies.
4. For general and specialist permits - copies of educational or vocational qualifications, and two copies of your contract or letter from the company offering you a job, with a detailed job description.
5. For self-employment permits - a detailed business plan, proof of sufficient capital and, for those aged over 45, evidence of adequate provision for a pension.