The 18-month job-search visa
Your post-graduation runway in Germany
After completing your degree at a German university, Brazilian graduates can apply for an 18-month job-search visa (§20 Abs.3 Aufenthaltsgesetz). This allows you to remain in Germany and look for employment matching your qualifications. You can work up to 10 hours per week during this period. Once you find a qualifying job — typically with a salary meeting the EU Blue Card threshold — you apply for a work residence permit at the Ausländerbehörde.
EU Blue Card — thresholds for Brazilian graduates
| Minimum salary (general) | €45,300 gross/year (2024 — revised annually) |
|---|---|
| Reduced threshold (shortage fields) | €41,042 gross/year — STEM, IT, medicine, certain other fields |
| Required degree | German degree qualifies automatically; Brazilian degree needs recognition |
| Validity | Up to 4 years (or employment contract duration + 3 months) |
| Path to permanent residence | 21 months + B1 German with Blue Card; 33 months standard |
| EU mobility | After 18 months: right to work in most EU countries |
Sectors where Brazilian graduates are in demand in Germany
- Engineering (mechanical, electrical, civil) — Germany's persistent skills shortage
- IT and software development — Berlin and Munich tech ecosystem
- Finance and fintech — Frankfurt, with Brazil's fintech expertise valued
- Life sciences and agri-tech — Germany-Brazil research ties translate to industry connections
- Renewable energy — Brazil's solar and wind expertise is transferable
- Architecture and urban planning — Brazilian design tradition is well-regarded
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