BrianGermany is one of Europe’s strongest economies, known for its robust industries and innovative companies. It’s no wonder that many people from around the world aspire to work there. Recently, the demand for skilled and unskilled workers in Germany has surged, particularly due to labor shortages across many sectors.
In this article, we’ll explore five companies in Germany actively hiring people from abroad. We’ll also touch on the visa process, types of available jobs, and how you can position yourself to land your dream job in Germany.
Germany’s job market has seen significant shifts in recent years. With over 2 million job openings as of March 2023, the country is hungry for workers in various industries. For instance, last year, labor shortages impacted nearly half of all companies in Germany. As the German government rolls out reforms to immigration policies, this is an ideal time for foreigners to consider job opportunities in the country.
Berlin is a hub for international talent, but cities like Munich, Hamburg, Stuttgart, Cologne, and Frankfurt also host the headquarters of many international companies. These cities have a dynamic and diverse workforce, making them great destinations for both technical and non-technical professionals. Below, we explore five companies that are hiring from abroad and supporting visa sponsorship.
1. Digital Project 4
Digital Project 4 is an innovation subsidiary of EWE, a leading player in the energy equipment and solutions business. EWE is the fifth-largest energy supplier in Germany, and Digital Project 4 is responsible for developing innovative solutions across various domains, including DevOps, quality assurance, and full-stack development. This company offers positions not only in technical fields but also in finance. One of the unique benefits of working at Digital Project 4 is the flexibility they offer in terms of remote work.
Employees can work from different countries for up to 60 days, making it an attractive option for those who value work-life balance and global exposure. Digital Project 4 also provides visa sponsorship for international candidates, making it a great starting point for your career in Germany.
2. AD Square
AD Square is a location intelligence platform that focuses on data-driven marketing. Their platform combines data about people’s interests, demographics, and movement patterns to create sophisticated audience profiles. These profiles are used to improve marketing campaigns’ performance, making AD Square a leader in its niche.
AD Square is currently hiring in fields such as IT operations and sales. For professionals in the marketing and IT sectors, AD Square offers a fast-paced, data-centric work environment. The company is expanding and actively seeks international talent. They also sponsor visas, making it easier for foreign workers to transition to Germany and contribute to the company’s growth.
3. Zalando
Zalando is one of Europe’s largest e-commerce platforms, specializing in fashion, shoes, and beauty products. Founded in 2008, Zalando now has over 50 million active users across 25 European markets. Despite some financial difficulties during the COVID-19 pandemic, Zalando has remained a key player in the e-commerce space, thanks to its solid strategies and innovative approaches. The company is known for its excellent work culture and offers jobs across a variety of fields, including software engineering, human resource management, digital marketing, inventory, and supply chain management. Whether you are a technical or non-technical professional, Zalando provides opportunities for career growth. The company offers competitive salaries and visa sponsorship for international employees.
4. HubSpot
HubSpot is a leading CRM platform that provides software and support to help businesses grow. The company is known for its flexible work arrangements, allowing employees to work fully remotely, from the office, or in a hybrid model. HubSpot has a significant presence in Berlin and is hiring across various fields, including software development, accounting, and marketing. For international candidates, HubSpot is an attractive option not only because of its global reputation but also due to its inclusive culture and commitment to professional development. They offer visa sponsorship and a supportive onboarding process to help international employees transition smoothly into their new roles. If you are looking for a company that prioritizes innovation and employee well-being, HubSpot should be on your radar.
5. OneFootball
OneFootball is a football media company that offers live scores, statistics, and news from over 200 leagues in 12 languages. Based in Berlin, the company is at the forefront of the sports media industry and offers job opportunities primarily in engineering and tech roles. OneFootball is constantly growing and seeks to hire international talent to support its expanding operations.
The company sponsors visas, making it easier for skilled workers from abroad to join their team. If you have a passion for sports and a background in engineering or media, OneFootball could be an exciting opportunity to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
Visa Sponsorship and Employment in Germany
If you’re considering moving to Germany for work, you will need a work visa. Germany offers various types of visas, and the one you apply for depends on the type of job you are pursuing. The most common visa categories for employment in Germany include:
Employment Visa (Type D): This visa allows foreigners to work in Germany for a long-term period. If you have a job offer from a German company, they can sponsor your visa, making the application process smoother.
Job Seeker Visa: If you do not yet have a job offer, you can apply for a job seeker visa. This visa allows you to enter Germany and look for a job. Once you secure employment, you can convert it into an employment visa.
Language Learning Visa: If you need to improve your German language skills before applying for jobs, you can apply for a language learning visa. This visa allows you to move to Germany and focus on learning the language. Afterward, you can apply for jobs and convert your visa into an employment visa.
Germany is facing labor shortages in many sectors, including IT, construction, healthcare, and retail. In fact, almost 42% of retail businesses have reported a shortage of skilled workers, while 39.3% of construction companies are also experiencing a lack of qualified labor. Pharmaceutical industries, motor vehicle companies, and service-based industries like IT consulting, nursing, and education are all facing similar challenges. If you have experience in these fields, your chances of landing a job in Germany are high.
How to Improve Your Chances of Getting Hired in Germany
If you are from a technical background such as engineering, data science, or software development, many German companies are open to hiring international talent and offering visa sponsorship. However, for non-technical professionals, learning German can significantly boost your chances of finding a job. Even if the job doesn’t require technical expertise, many companies prefer candidates who can communicate effectively in German. Therefore, it’s advisable to start learning the language early on. You can apply for a language learning visa if necessary, and once you reach a certain proficiency level, you can apply for jobs and convert your visa to an employment visa.
For non-technical professionals, jobs in fields such as retail, hospitality, healthcare, and education are in high demand. For instance, nurses, chefs, carpenters, and mechanics are particularly sought after. Germany’s healthcare sector, in particular, is experiencing significant labor shortages, making it a great opportunity for foreign workers with relevant qualifications. Similarly, the construction and retail sectors are also on the lookout for skilled and unskilled workers from abroad.
Conclusion
Germany’s job market is booming, and companies are increasingly looking beyond their borders to find the talent they need. Whether you are a software developer, marketer, engineer, or healthcare worker, there are numerous opportunities to find a job in Germany with visa sponsorship.
The five companies mentioned in this article—Digital Project 4, AD Square, Zalando, HubSpot, and OneFootball—are just a few examples of organizations actively hiring international workers.
If you are serious about moving to Germany, now is the time to take action. Start by researching job openings, updating your CV to meet European standards, and learning German if necessary. With the right preparation, you can successfully land a job in Germany and start your new life abroad.
Brian