FAQ: Can I Change My Job in Germany If I’m on a Work Visa?
Quick Facts
- Yes, but only with permission from your local Foreigners’ Office (Ausländerbehörde).
- You must always inform the authorities if you change employer or job role.
- Your new job must meet the same visa conditions as the old one (salary, field, qualifications).
- Changing jobs without approval can cause problems with your residence permit.
The Reality
Many newcomers think once they have a work visa, they’re “free” to change jobs. But in Germany, your visa is tied to the exact employer and role it was issued for.
That means:
- If you got a visa to work in IT at Company A, you can’t just quit and join Company B without updating your permit.
- Some Ausländerbehörde offices may say, “It’s fine, just inform us”, while others demand a full application again.
- The law says: you must apply for approval before starting with a new employer.
It feels bureaucratic (and it is), but the idea is to make sure your residence permit is always based on valid conditions.
Steps You Need to Take
- Check your residence permit
Look at the remark field on your card. If it says your work is limited to a specific employer, you 100% need approval to change jobs. - Contact the Foreigners’ Office (Ausländerbehörde)
Book an appointment or send an email.
Location: usually in your city’s immigration office. - Prepare documents for your new job
New work contract, job description (sometimes required), proof of salary (must meet minimum threshold, e.g. Blue Card = €45,300 gross in 2025 or €41,041 in shortage occupations), proof of qualifications (if linked to your visa type). - Wait for approval
Processing times differ by city. Some update it quickly, others can take weeks.
You are only legally allowed to start once the Ausländerbehörde approves. - Pick up your updated residence permit
Sometimes they just put a note in the system.
Sometimes you get a new physical card.
Where to Get Official Information
- Federal Office for Migration and Refugees (BAMF)
- Make it in Germany – Work Visa Info
- Your local Ausländerbehörde → Google “Ausländerbehörde [Your City]”