German for Skilled worker visa (Aufenthaltserlaubnis für Fachkräfte)
Most skilled worker visas need no German to start. B1 opens the settlement permit after 3 years.
German level: B1
Exams that count: Goethe-Zertifikat, telc Deutsch, ÖSD, DTZ
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Rules for this route
Skilled worker → settlement permit
Last checked 2026-09-30
Settlement permit after 3 years as a skilled worker (Fachkraft).
Goethe B1 format
Conditions
- 3 years with a residence permit under § 18a, 18b, 18d or 18g
- A job your permit allows you to do
- 36 months of pension contributions
- German B1
- Basic knowledge of the legal and social order (Leben in Deutschland test)
- Enough living space and money to support yourself
Watch-outs
- With vocational training or a degree completed in Germany, it is 2 years and 24 months of contributions.
Official sources
FAQ
Skilled worker → settlement permit
Settlement permit after 3 years as a skilled worker (Fachkraft). Last checked 2026-09-30