🇩🇪 Ultimate Guide: How to obtain a Working Holiday Visa for Germany (and 3 reasons why you should apply)

You’ve probably wondered what life in Europe must be like, haven't you? What would you do if I told you you can get a chance to experience it? Germany is one of the many countries around the world that offer a Working Holiday visa to citizens of countries in agreement, a Visa that will allow them to live and work in Germany for up to 12 months. 

In this article, we’ll tell you everything you need to know about this visa, its requirements and how the application process works. But beforehand, here are 3 great reasons why you should take the leap and apply to a Working Holiday period in Germany.

Life Quality

Did you know Germany offers one of the best life qualities across the world? In addition to this, this country positions itself amongst the top 10 in the human development index. Germany enjoys economic and political stability, being the 4th biggest economy in the world. 

All these mentions in different rankings are reflected in German’s daily life, enjoying access to education and health almost for free, being both systems financed by their taxes. Besides, there is a well-known balance between work and life, with work schedules being highly respected and staying late at work frowned upon. You’ll even find that all stores are closed on Sundays, since it’s considered a rest day. 

Cultural and historical richness

You were probably expecting this reason: Germany is a country that has been incredibly present in history, participating in multiple conflicts and historical processes that left their traces, even visible today. That is why, if you're a history lover Germany has a lot to offer, from vestiges of the Berlin Wall (whose entire path is still preserved with a double line of cobblestones 😮), to hidden alleys preserved as left on World War II, cities throughout the country with a marvelous historical centers, and even castles and medieval towns you can still visit and will make you feel as a character of a fairytale! 

Do you need some visual proof? Here are some photos that will convince you to spend a year in Germany 😉

As if it wasn't enough, christmas in Germany is truly magical and you'll be able to find a Weihnachstmarkt (Christmas market) wherever you go 😍🎄. Just look at this picture of Strizelmarkt, the famous christmas market located in Dresden:

Higher education

Do you plan to continue your studies, or dreaming of doing your master program abroad? Germany is a great option! The country not only has prestigious Universities across its territory, above all in technical areas, but also offers higher education at affordable prices- or in some cases, even for free- no matter your nationality. Even though there are private universities that will charge you thousands of euros, there are public universities in which you’ll find great master programs for 500 € a year, or even less. 

Now, even though a Working Holiday Visa won’t allow you to study, German is a complicated language and with this visa you’ll have permission to take language classes while you’re there. If you’re considering studying in Germany, a Working Holiday period there will help you get the language skills you’ll need.

Did we convince you? Great! Now we’ll tell you everything you need to know about this visa for your application process to be successful. Are you ready for a year in Europe? 

Application Requirements

➡️You must have a valid passport form one of the following countries: Chile, Argentina, Australia, Hong Kong, Israel, Japan, The Republic of Korea, New Zealand and Uruguay. At the moment, the agreement with Brazil is being reviewed. 

➡️A biometric photograph according to the standards requested by your local German embassy. 

➡️You must show proof of enough solvency to support yourself upon your arrival in Germany. You must have at least €1.200 on a closed account, without any movements at least 90 days prior to the application. This proof of funding is personal, and cannot be demonstrated by a third party.

➡️Having a plane ticket to Germany, already bought.

➡️Having a plane ticket out of the country, or at least €1000 additional to buy it.

➡️You must have medical insurance with a minimum coverage of €30.000. You can find the ideal insurance for you on InternationalHealth.com, where you’ll be able to quote and compare amongst the best alternatives of the market, and access a completely free advisory session. 

➡️Motivation letter written in German. 👀 Keep an eye on this: the German embassy in Chile warns applicants that they won't accept a copy paste from an internet translator ⚠️

➡️Curriculum Vitae/ Resume in German.

➡️Invitation letter, hotel reservation or proof of enough funds to cover accommodation.

➡️Depending on your country of origin, they might ask you for your criminal records.

⚠️ Remember that, depending on your country of origin, these requirements might vary. Get informed on your local embassy’s website to make sure you meet all the acceptance criteria.  

Exclusions

➡️You can’t have participated in the WH Germany program on previous occasions. 

➡️You cannot travel with any dependents, that means, no children or partner. 

➡️The Visa has a maximum length of 12 months, and you cannot work over 6 months for the same employer.

How to apply

Unlike other Working Holiday visas, the application process for Germany has to be in person at a German embassy, either your local one or abroad. It's important for you to have all documents required at the moment of your embassy appointment. Otherwise, your application won’t be valid.

Fees and processing times

The Working Holiday Visa for Germany has a price of €75, but can vary depending on your country of origin. This type of Visa is usually processed within a week of your appointment.