As a skilled professional with academic training recognised in Germany you can apply for a residence permit for skilled employment. Futher information can be found at www.make-it-in-germany.com

You can verify wheter your degree is recognised in Germany on the following website

If your degree is not listed on this website, you can apply for a “Statement of Comparability for Foreign Higher Education Qualifications” on the following website

Where and How to apply?

Visa applications can only be lodged in person by prior appointment with the German Embassy in Wellington. Honorary Consuls do not handle any visa applications. Appointments have to be booked via our online booking system. Please note that you can not apply more than 3 months before your entry to Germany.

New Zealand citizens can travel visa free to Germany and can apply for the necessary permit after arrival at the local immigration office.

What do I need to fill out and provide?

Please have your complete application ready for your appointment and do not include staples, post it notes, paperclips and folders of any kind. The photograph is not allowed to be stapled, glued or blue tacked to the form.

1. Please print out your completed visa application form

2. Required documentation according to the checklist

3. Please include the form “Erklärung zum Beschäftigungsverhältnis” which needs to be completed and signed by your employer in Germany. You will require the original plus one copy.

4. Please print out and sign the Information pursuant to section 18 (2) no. 4a of the Residence Act

5.. Please read the data protection regulation

and print out the data regulation signature sheet

5. Visa fees

What happens after your application
The Embassy reserves the right to request further documents or information deemed necessary for processing your application at any time and assumes no responsibility for applications submitted too close to your planned departure.
Applying for a visa does not guarantee that a visa will be issued! Once you have obtained your visa please check carefully that all entries are correct and in accordance with your application.
Upon your arrival the border authorities may examine whether the requirements for your entry continue to be valid. Entry may be refused by the border authorities although you are in possession of a valid visa. We advise you carry with you documents giving evidence to the purpose of your stay.

For the time being, it is not possible to pick up your passport in person. As soon as your application has been processed, the passport will be sent to you, using the prepaid and self-addressed courier envelope provided by you at the time of your application.