Frequently Asked Questions
Career Opportunities in Germany: From Minimum Wage to Manager Position
Can I build a career in the logistics sector without experience?
Yes, the logistics sector opens wide doors for candidates without experience as well. Many employees starting their career as warehouse staff; by completing in-house trainings and professional development programs, can seize the chance to rise to higher positions such as team leader, coordinator, or logistics officer over time.
What are the development opportunities in the health sector?
To enter the health sector, 'Care Assistant' positions are a good start. Those who want to advance their career can transition to the 'Specialist Care Staff' status by completing their vocational trainings (Ausbildung) valid in Germany or by finishing equivalence processes. This status brings along more responsibility and higher salary opportunities.
Is it possible to rise in the automotive sector?
The automotive sector in Germany offers a dynamic career path. It is possible to transition to more qualified positions in quality control or technical departments by starting work in the production area, taking the necessary technical trainings (Ex: Master/Meister or Technician), and improving language skills.
What career opportunities are there in the IT sector starting with minimum wage?
The IT sector offers opportunities based on competence. You can step into the sector with entry-level positions (Ex: Data processing or 1st Level Support). By developing yourself with personal development, certificate programs, and practical experience; you can build a career in high-demand areas such as software, system administration, or cyber security.
In how much time can a manager position be reached in the retail sector?
This varies depending on the company and personal effort. With patience and hard work, you can rise from sales associate to store manager. Large retail chains offer trainings and certificates for employees wishing to develop.
AlternativKraft GmbH
Where does AlternativKraft GmbH provide services and where is its headquarters located?
Our company is a GmbH (Limited Liability Company) registered in the German commercial register, and its headquarters is located in the state of North Rhine-Westphalia (NRW), the heart of industry and trade in Germany. We do not limit our services by physical boundaries; in addition to local operations across Germany, we offer end-to-end services to our clients in Turkey and other countries through our digital infrastructure and international solution partners.
Is your company a law firm or a visa agency?
No. AlternativKraft is not a law firm. AlternativKraft GmbH is a corporate consultancy company providing strategic management and process consulting services. Our field of activity includes the management of bureaucratic processes, file preparation, career planning, and the development of commercial strategies.
All matters requiring legal advice, litigation, or legal representation before official authorities (such as visa appeals, company formation, asylum proceedings, etc.) are carried out exclusively by independent lawyers registered with the German Bar Associations with whom we cooperate.
All matters requiring legal advice, litigation, or legal representation before official authorities (such as visa appeals, company formation, asylum proceedings, etc.) are carried out exclusively by independent lawyers registered with the German Bar Associations with whom we cooperate.
How does your "Solution Partnership" model work?
We apply an interdisciplinary working model to manage complex processes from a single center. Depending on the nature of your project (Law, Tax, Customs, or Equivalence), while we handle the necessary technical preparation and organization, we refer transactions requiring official signatory authority or licensure to our authorized solution partners (Lawyers, Financial Advisors, Sworn Translators) and coordinate the process on your behalf. Thus, while you remain in communication with a single point of contact, your business is executed by experts.
Who are your services aimed at, and do you provide individual consulting?
AlternativKraft GmbH primarily offers strategic management consulting to corporate enterprises (B2B). For individual (B2C) requests, our services are limited to 'Career Planning', 'Vocational Training (Ausbildung) Guidance', and 'Adaptation to Germany (Integration)' processes. Our company does not provide direct consulting for transactions requiring legal procedures such as visas, residence permits, or asylum for our individual clients; instead, it coordinates the administrative file preparation for these processes and refers clients to authorized solution partner lawyers for legal representation.
How should I proceed to start the consulting process?
Every process begins with a 'Current Situation Analysis' specific to the individual or institution. You can submit your request by contacting us via our website or communication channels. Our experts subject your situation to a preliminary evaluation and prepare a personalized roadmap and work proposal for you. Following mutual agreement and the signing of the service contract, your process is officially initiated together with our authorized units and solution partners.
Professional Truck Driving in Germany: Frequently Asked Questions
What documents do I need to work as a commercial vehicle driver in Germany?
To be able to perform professional transport in Germany, a Class C (Truck) or Class CE (Trailer/Tractor) driver's license is a basic requirement. However, just the license is not sufficient; to conduct commercial transport activity, possessing a "Professional Competence Certificate" (Code 95) at EU standards is a legal obligation. Additionally, a digital tachograph card (driver card) is also essential during the application and working process.
What is an ADR Certificate and does it provide an advantage in the recruitment process?
The ADR certificate is an expertise document required for the safe transport of dangerous goods (chemicals, flammable substances, etc.) at international standards. Since drivers possessing this document can transport more qualified loads, they are preferred with priority by employers and can generally access wider job opportunities compared to standard transport.
How much German do I need to know for driving?
Although it changes according to the visa type and the employer's request; basic level German knowledge is important for road safety, communication with traffic police, and understanding the instructions of the dispatcher. Even though perfect grammar is not a condition, language proficiency at a level to understand occupational safety rules and delivery documents is the most important factor putting you ahead in the recruitment process.
How do driving and rest periods (Lenk- und Ruhezeiten) work?
Across Germany and the EU, drivers' working hours are bound by strict rules via social regulations (Sozialvorschriften). According to the general framework; the daily driving time cannot exceed 9 hours (can increase to 10 hours twice a week) and it is mandatory to take a break of at least 45 minutes after every 4.5 hours of driving. Complying with these rules carries vital importance both for driver safety and to avoid facing high monetary fines.
How is the earning status of truck drivers?
Driver incomes vary according to your experience, additional certificates you possess (ADR, etc.), the state you work in, and the type of load you carry (long haul/short distance). In Germany, besides their fixed gross salaries, drivers generally support their incomes with tax-exempt daily allowances called "Spesen" and (if any) overtime additions.
https://web.arbeitsagentur.de/entgeltatlas/
https://web.arbeitsagentur.de/entgeltatlas/
Cost of Living in Germany: Grocery Shopping and Budget
Is grocery shopping expensive in Germany? What is the level of basic food prices?
Basic food prices in Germany are at quite reasonable levels across Europe compared to the average income. Basic needs like milk, bread, and eggs can be found at very affordable prices in markets called "Discounters". Meat prices, however, vary according to quality and type; red meat is generally higher priced compared to white meat (chicken/turkey).
Where can I do the most affordable shopping?
Markets in Germany are divided into two:
Discount Markets (Discounter): Markets such as Lidl, Aldi, Netto, and Penny offer basic products at the most affordable prices.
Supermarkets: Chains like Rewe and Edeka offer a wider product range, however, prices might be a bit higher. For budget-friendly shopping, following weekly discount brochures (Prospekt) and preferring the markets' own brands (Eigenmarke) provides savings.
Discount Markets (Discounter): Markets such as Lidl, Aldi, Netto, and Penny offer basic products at the most affordable prices.
Supermarkets: Chains like Rewe and Edeka offer a wider product range, however, prices might be a bit higher. For budget-friendly shopping, following weekly discount brochures (Prospekt) and preferring the markets' own brands (Eigenmarke) provides savings.
What are beverage prices and the "Pfand" (Deposit) system?
Water and soft drink prices are generally affordable, but attention must be paid to the label price. There is the "Pfand" (Deposit) system in Germany. You generally pay a 0.25 Euro deposit at the checkout for plastic bottles and canned drinks. When you return these empty bottles to the vending machines in the markets, you get this fee back. For this reason, it is necessary not to forget that the deposit will be added on top of the price on the shelf.
What is the right address for personal care and cleaning products?
For shampoo, toothpaste, cosmetics, and cleaning products, stores called "Drogerie" (Example: dm, Rossmann, Müller) are preferred in Germany. These stores both offer a wide variety and enable you to procure very high-quality products at quite economic prices through their own brands (Private Label).
What should I pay attention to regarding fruit and vegetable prices?
Fruit and vegetable prices show serious changes according to the season. Local products sold in their season are always more economic and fresh. Additionally, neighborhood markets or "evening hour discounts" of markets are a good opportunity to access fresh products at an affordable price.
Cost of Living and Social Opportunities in Germany
What is the rent difference between big cities and small towns?
Rental expenses in Germany show serious differences according to the region and the nature of the residence. While rents remain quite high in metropolises like Munich, Frankfurt, or Berlin; it is possible to find more affordable options in rural areas or small cities. When making a rent budget, attention must be paid to whether the price specified in the advertisement is "Cold Rent" (Kaltmiete) or "Warm Rent" (Warmmiete) including heating/dues. Small settlements generally offer a more economic life.
Is it mandatory to own a car in Germany?
Germany possesses one of the most developed public transport networks in the world. Especially in big cities, it is possible to live without needing a vehicle thanks to metro (U-Bahn), suburban train (S-Bahn), and bus networks. Additionally, thanks to the "Deutschlandticket" (58 Euro Ticket) application valid in local transport throughout all of Germany, transport costs can be kept at a quite reasonable and fixed level. In rural areas, however, individual vehicle usage might be preferred in terms of life comfort.
At what level are average food and grocery expenses?
Food prices in Germany are accepted as reasonable at the European average in proportion to income level. Thanks to affordable market chains known as "Discounters" (Aldi, Lidl, Netto, etc.), basic food shopping can be done in an economic way. Although weekly kitchen expense varies according to personal consumption habits and the quality of preferred products (Bio/Organic products, etc.), a budget-friendly life can be sustained with planned shopping.
How does the health system work, can everyone benefit?
It is a legal obligation for everyone residing in Germany (employee, student, or job seeker) to possess health insurance (Krankenversicherung). The system is divided into two as "Statutory Health Insurance" (GKV) and "Private Health Insurance" (PKV). Thanks to the income-proportional premium system, access to high-standard medical service and treatment opportunities is secured for every segment of society.
Is university education in Germany really free?
Tuition fees are not collected in the vast majority of state universities in Germany. Students generally pay only a nominal "Semester Contribution" (Semesterbeitrag) covering administrative expenses and the public transport ticket.
Important Note: In some states like Baden-Württemberg, semester tuition fees can be requested from non-EU citizen students. For this reason, it is important to check the current fee policy of the university you target.
Important Note: In some states like Baden-Württemberg, semester tuition fees can be requested from non-EU citizen students. For this reason, it is important to check the current fee policy of the university you target.
Effective and Fun Ways to Learn German: Your Starting Point
How can I use digital resources to practice language without leaving home?
Gaining "auditory familiarity" is critical in language acquisition. Watching German films and series available on digital streaming platforms (Streaming Services), initially with subtitles in your own language, and at advanced levels with German subtitles, is an effective supportive method for you to learn daily speech patterns and correct pronunciation.
How effective are mobile applications in language learning?
Language learning applications (Duolingo, Babbel, Busuu, etc.) are practical tools especially to improve vocabulary and establish a grammar foundation. These applications allow you to conduct "micro-learning" sessions during intense work schedules or while traveling. However, for a professional level of language mastery, it is recommended to support these applications with formal education or courses.
Which methods do you recommend for speaking practice?
We recommend the "Tandem" (Language Exchange) method to turn theoretical knowledge into practice. Practicing mutual conversation with native German speakers allows you to both overcome the language barrier and learn cultural nuances firsthand. This method is one of the most social and effective ways to overcome the language barrier.
How can I apply my German speaking skills?
Tandem partnerships are a great way to apply your German speaking skills in real dialogues. By regularly exchanging languages with a language partner, both parties discover cultural details in addition to learning the language.
What is recommended as reading material for beginners?
At the beginner level (A1-A2), reading materials with simplified language and children's books makes it easier to understand sentence structures. Instead of complex texts; clear, simple, and visually supported resources (For example, Brothers Grimm fairy tales or graded readers) help you reinforce basic grammar structures while maintaining your motivation.
Seasonal Employment and Short-Term Work in Germany
How do the work permit and visa processes work?
The process begins with the "Preliminary Approval" that the employer in Germany will receive from the Federal Employment Agency (Bundesagentur für Arbeit). The approval process proceeds after the employer documents that a suitable EU citizen employee could not be found for this position.
Our Role: As AlternativKraft, we coordinate the correspondence with the employer, the Federal Employment Agency approval process, and the file preparation necessary for the visa application. The final approval of the visa is under the authority of the German Foreign Missions.
Our Role: As AlternativKraft, we coordinate the correspondence with the employer, the Federal Employment Agency approval process, and the file preparation necessary for the visa application. The final approval of the visa is under the authority of the German Foreign Missions.
What is the duration of stay in Germany as a seasonal worker?
According to legal regulations, the seasonal working period is, as a rule, a maximum of 90 days (3 months) within a calendar year. Work performed during this period can be exempted from social security deductions in Germany under certain conditions.
Important Note: Longer-term work permits, such as the Western Balkans regulation or skilled workforce visas, are different from the seasonal work status and are subject to separate procedures.
Important Note: Longer-term work permits, such as the Western Balkans regulation or skilled workforce visas, are different from the seasonal work status and are subject to separate procedures.
How long can I stay in Germany as a seasonal worker?
Seasonal workers can generally work in Germany for up to 90 days. In some cases, this period can be extended up to six months depending on the duration of the employment contract.
In which sectors are there job opportunities?
Seasonal employment concentrates mainly in these three main sectors:
Agriculture: Harvest season gathering and agricultural processing.
Tourism and Hotel Management: Housekeeping, kitchen staff, or waitstaff in hotels.
Gastronomy: Seasonal support staff in restaurants and cafes.
Agriculture: Harvest season gathering and agricultural processing.
Tourism and Hotel Management: Housekeeping, kitchen staff, or waitstaff in hotels.
Gastronomy: Seasonal support staff in restaurants and cafes.
Is knowing German a legal obligation?
For a seasonal worker visa, legally (before the Consulate), a certified language requirement is generally not sought. However, basic level communication skills can be requested by employers to be able to understand occupational safety instructions at the workplace and for team harmony. Knowing no language at all can lower your chance of being accepted for the job.
Education for Turkish Students in Germany: Requirements and Opportunities
Which requirements must Turkish students fulfill to receive education in Germany?
Turkish students are required to possess a high school diploma valid (whose equivalence can be ensured) in Germany. The required grade point average may vary according to the university and department to be applied to. In terms of language proficiency, depending on the language of instruction of the department, a German certificate at B2 or C1 level is generally requested. Different conditions apply for English programs. Additionally, a qualified motivation letter explaining the student's academic goals holds an important place in the application.
What kind of advantages do German universities offer to international students?
A large portion of state universities in Germany offer low-cost education opportunities for international students as well (In some states, there may be tuition fee applications for non-EU students). Students generally pay only a semester contribution. Germany provides world-class education in many fields, primarily engineering, medicine, and social sciences, and career opportunities across Europe after graduation.
How does the application process work for Turkish students?
The application process requires strict adherence to the date ranges determined by the universities. It is essential that official documents such as diplomas and transcripts are translated into German or English by a sworn translator and the necessary official approvals (Notary/Apostille, etc.) are made. Correct department selection and the complete preparation of the file are factors increasing the chance of acceptance.
Which documents are required for the visa application?
The application process requires strict adherence to the date ranges determined by the universities. It is essential that official documents such as diplomas and transcripts are translated into German or English by a sworn translator and the necessary official approvals (Notary/Apostille, etc.) are completed. Correct department selection and the complete preparation of the file are factors increasing the chance of acceptance.
What is the starting salary for truck drivers in Germany?
The visa application is evaluated by authorized German Consulates. Generally, university acceptance or confirmation of application, financial proofs showing they can cover living costs in Germany (Ex: Blocked Account), and valid health insurance are requested from students. For the current and detailed document list, official consulate sources must be taken as a basis.
Transition from Refugee Status to Permanent Residence
How many years must I wait to obtain permanent residence (Niederlassungserlaubnis) after asylum?
The waiting period varies according to the protection status you possess and your language level.
Recognized Refugees (GF): If you know German at C1 level, you can apply at the end of 3 years; if you know German at A2 level, you can apply at the end of 5 years.
Subsidiary Protection (Subsidiär Schutz): Generally, a 5-year legal residence period and German requirement at B1 level is sought.
(Note: Duration calculation and application timing are at the discretion of the Foreigners' Authority.)
Recognized Refugees (GF): If you know German at C1 level, you can apply at the end of 3 years; if you know German at A2 level, you can apply at the end of 5 years.
Subsidiary Protection (Subsidiär Schutz): Generally, a 5-year legal residence period and German requirement at B1 level is sought.
(Note: Duration calculation and application timing are at the discretion of the Foreigners' Authority.)
Which level of German knowledge is mandatory for the application?
Laws require you to prove that "integration has taken place" for permanent residence. As a general rule, B1 level (Independent Language Use) is requested. However, if you possess Recognized Refugee status, A2 level can also be accepted as sufficient when you complete the 5-year residence period. For those wanting to obtain permanent residence early (in 3 years), C1 level is mandatory.
Can I obtain permanent residence while receiving state aid (Bürgergeld/Jobcenter)?
One of the basic conditions of permanent residence is that the person can provide for their livelihood with their own income (Lebensunterhaltssicherung). As a rule, applications of those receiving Jobcenter aid (excluding exceptional situations and education processes) may not be accepted. For the application to be approved; a stable job, sufficient household income, and not receiving social aid are determining criteria.
Which documents must be present in the application file?
In a standard file; a valid passport (or Refugee Travel Document), current residence card, salary slips belonging to the last 3 months, employment contract, Pension Insurance Premium Statement (Rentenversicherungsverlauf), and language certificates must be present. Additionally, a rental contract showing that you possess a residence of sufficient size is also mandatory.
Our Service: As AlternativKraft, we manage the processes of preparing your file completely and making the administrative application.
Our Service: As AlternativKraft, we manage the processes of preparing your file completely and making the administrative application.
Does it become easier to bring my family after obtaining permanent residence?
Yes, since the permanent residence permit (Niederlassungserlaubnis) makes your status in Germany permanent, it strengthens your hand in family reunification applications. However, just your status is not enough for family reunification; you must also meet the criteria of sufficient income capable of providing for your family's livelihood and suitable housing (Square meter condition).
Important: Family reunification is a complex legal process; in order not to receive a rejection, it is recommended that applications be made under the supervision of expert lawyers.
Important: Family reunification is a complex legal process; in order not to receive a rejection, it is recommended that applications be made under the supervision of expert lawyers.
Web Design and Custom Software Services
Do you make websites "Turnkey", how does the process work?
Yes, our process covers project management from A to Z. It starts with needs analysis, continues with UI/UX (User Experience) design, coding, and content entry. Our websites are designed in accordance with modern coding standards, mobile compatible (Responsive), and to reflect your company's corporate identity. At project delivery, management panel training is given to you or your team, ensuring you manage your site easily.
Do you use ready-made templates, or do you make custom software?
We offer both solutions according to the project's budget and need. For fast and economic solutions, we professionally customize licensed and secure CMS infrastructures (WordPress, etc.). However, for specific business processes, customer portals, or complex B2B platforms; we develop software projects coded completely specific to you (Custom Development).
Do you also prepare the "Legal Texts" (Impressum, Privacy Policy) together with the website?
As AlternativKraft GmbH, we make the technical infrastructure of your website GDPR (DSGVO) compliant (Ex: Cookie Banner installation, SSL Certificate) and create the necessary pages for legal texts. However; the legal content of texts such as Impressum, AGB (Distance Sales Contract), and Privacy Policy must be specific to your firm's field of activity. For this reason, the content of these texts must be provided by the customer or professional support must be obtained from our contracted law firms. Our company does not perform direct legal text copywriting.
Do you give a guarantee of rising to top ranks in Google (SEO)?
We deliver our websites with the technical infrastructure loved by search engines (Technical SEO, Speed Optimization, Clean Code). However, Google rankings change constantly depending on the competition status, algorithm changes, and content quality. For this reason, due to ethical and legal (UWG) rules, we do not make promises like "1st Rank Guarantee in Google". Instead, we develop sustainable SEO strategies for your site to rise organically.
What documents are required for the permanent residence permit application?
Absolutely. Software is a living organism. We offer a "Maintenance and Update Contract" (Wartungsvertrag) option for your website to remain up-to-date against cyber attacks, to be backed up regularly, and for the addition of new features. Thus, your technical security continues to remain under AlternativKraft assurance even after your site is delivered.
EU Blue Card: Career in Germany
Who can apply for the EU Blue Card?
Academics possessing a university diploma recognized in Germany (in Anabin H+ status) and, under certain conditions, IT specialists possessing 3 years of experience even without a diploma can apply. The basic condition is to receive a concrete job offer from an employer in Germany meeting the minimum gross salary limit determined by laws.
What are the salary requirements for the 2024/2025 Period?
Salary lower limits are updated every year by the Federal Government. With the new Immigration Law entering into force in November 2023, these limits have been lowered.
Shortage Occupations (Engineer, IT, Doctor, etc.): The annual gross salary threshold is lower.
Standard Professions: The standard threshold applies.
Important: Since current salary limits (Ex: approximately 41,041.80 € and 45,300 € levels for the year 2024) change constantly, the suitability analysis of your contract for the Blue Card must be done by our experts.
Shortage Occupations (Engineer, IT, Doctor, etc.): The annual gross salary threshold is lower.
Standard Professions: The standard threshold applies.
Important: Since current salary limits (Ex: approximately 41,041.80 € and 45,300 € levels for the year 2024) change constantly, the suitability analysis of your contract for the Blue Card must be done by our experts.
Is knowing German mandatory?
There is legally no German language certificate obligation for the Blue Card application. Especially in the IT sector or international companies, English might be sufficient. However, for Blue Card holders to be able to obtain "Permanent Residence" (Niederlassungserlaubnis) in the future, learning German provides a great advantage (It reduces the duration to 21 months).
What are the advantages of being a Blue Card holder?
The Blue Card is the strongest residence status in Germany.
Fast Permanent Residence: It gives the right to transition to permanent residence in 21 months with B1 German, and in 33 months with A1 German.
Family Reunification: Your spouse can come with you without a language requirement being sought and possesses a work permit.
Intra-EU Mobility: After working 12 months in Germany, it provides ease of transition to other EU countries with the Blue Card.
Fast Permanent Residence: It gives the right to transition to permanent residence in 21 months with B1 German, and in 33 months with A1 German.
Family Reunification: Your spouse can come with you without a language requirement being sought and possesses a work permit.
Intra-EU Mobility: After working 12 months in Germany, it provides ease of transition to other EU countries with the Blue Card.
How long does the application process take?
The process varies according to the equivalence status of your diploma (ZAB) and the workload of the German Consulate you are affiliated with. Applications made with a complete file generally conclude faster compared to standard work visas.
Our Service: As AlternativKraft, we audit the suitability of your employment contract to salary criteria, manage the ZAB equivalence process, and prepare your visa file in accordance with Blue Card procedures.
Our Service: As AlternativKraft, we audit the suitability of your employment contract to salary criteria, manage the ZAB equivalence process, and prepare your visa file in accordance with Blue Card procedures.
The Fast-Track Skilled Worker Procedure
What is 81a (The Fast-Track Procedure) and how does it speed up the process?
Section 81a is a special right offered to employers within the scope of the German Residence Act (AufenthG). This procedure begins with the employer (or consultants authorized by them like AlternativKraft) applying to the Foreigners' Authority in Germany. The aim is to shorten the recognition (Anerkennung) and visa appointment processes. The law aims for the visa appointment to be given within 3 weeks after the preliminary approval; however, in practice, these durations may vary according to the workload of the foreign missions.
Who and which occupational groups can benefit from this process?
University graduates, specialists having completed their vocational training (Ausbildung), and under certain conditions experienced IT specialists; who have received a concrete job offer in Germany, can benefit from this procedure.
Important: For the process to be initiated, it is essential that there is a signed employment contract or a binding job offer between the employer and the employee.
Important: For the process to be initiated, it is essential that there is a signed employment contract or a binding job offer between the employer and the employee.
Which documents are requested in the 81a process?
For the file to be processed by the Foreigners' Authority (Ausländerbehörde); a valid passport, signed employment contract, diplomas/certificates, CV, and Power of Attorney (Vollmacht) given to the employer/consultant are required. Additionally, language certificates and health insurance declarations are also requested according to the nature of the profession.
Is knowing German mandatory?
The language requirement varies according to the profession to be performed.
Health Sector: German at B1/B2 level is a legal obligation for doctors and nurses.
Other Sectors: Generally B1 level is asked; however, for IT specialists or positions where English is spoken in international companies (with the employer's approval), a German requirement may not be sought.
Our Service: The analysis of which level of language is required is done by our experts before the application.
Health Sector: German at B1/B2 level is a legal obligation for doctors and nurses.
Other Sectors: Generally B1 level is asked; however, for IT specialists or positions where English is spoken in international companies (with the employer's approval), a German requirement may not be sought.
Our Service: The analysis of which level of language is required is done by our experts before the application.
Can I bring my family (Spouse and Children) together with this process?
Yes, this is also one of the biggest advantages of the 81a procedure. If your spouse's and minor children's files are also included in the system during the application (Concurrent Application), your family can also benefit from the fast-track visa process and travel to Germany together with you.
Guide to Transitioning to German Citizenship
What are the necessary residence period and conditions for citizenship according to the new law?
With the Citizenship Law reform entering into force in June 2024, waiting periods have been shortened.
Duration: The legal residence period has been reduced from 8 years to 5 years. Indeed, for those showing "Special Integration Success" (C1 level German, voluntary work, or superior professional success), this period can drop down to 3 years.
Basic Conditions: German at B1 level, providing for one's own livelihood (not receiving social aid), a clean criminal record, and a declaration of commitment to Germany's constitutional order (Liberal Democratic Basic Order) are required.
Duration: The legal residence period has been reduced from 8 years to 5 years. Indeed, for those showing "Special Integration Success" (C1 level German, voluntary work, or superior professional success), this period can drop down to 3 years.
Basic Conditions: German at B1 level, providing for one's own livelihood (not receiving social aid), a clean criminal record, and a declaration of commitment to Germany's constitutional order (Liberal Democratic Basic Order) are required.
Which documents are mandatory to be present in the application file?
A complete citizenship file must contain the following: Valid passport, current residence card, income documents belonging to the last 3 months (Salary slip/Tax declaration), Pension Insurance (Rentenversicherung) statement, B1 language certificate, and "Life in Germany" (Einbürgerungstest) exam result document.
Our Service: We audit the compliance of your file with these new criteria and prepare the application forms.
Our Service: We audit the compliance of your file with these new criteria and prepare the application forms.
How must language proficiency (B1) be proven?
By law, you must prove your German knowledge with an official B1 Certificate obtained from authorized institutions (Goethe, Telc, ÖSD, etc.) or with a school/vocational training diploma completed in Germany. Mastering daily colloquial language is not sufficient alone; it is essential that this situation be documented.
Is dual citizenship (Mehrstaatigkeit) possible?
Yes. Together with the new law, Germany has officially accepted the principle of "Dual Citizenship". Now, while becoming a German citizen, you do not need to exit Turkish citizenship (or the citizenship of the country you came from). You can possess a German passport while retaining your current passport.
How long does the application process take?
The process shows serious differences according to the workload of the citizenship authority (Einbürgerungsbehörde) you are affiliated with. While results can be obtained in 6 months in some regions, this duration can reach 12-18 months in big cities (Berlin, Cologne, Munich, etc.).
Important: A record increase is being experienced in the number of applications due to the facilities made in the law. For this reason, submitting the file "completely" from the very beginning is the most important factor shortening the processing time. As AlternativKraft, we optimize the process by preparing your file at "Decision Ready" standard.
Important: A record increase is being experienced in the number of applications due to the facilities made in the law. For this reason, submitting the file "completely" from the very beginning is the most important factor shortening the processing time. As AlternativKraft, we optimize the process by preparing your file at "Decision Ready" standard.
Opportunity Card: Job Search Visa
What is the Opportunity Card (Chancenkarte) and what is its difference from the old job search visa?
The Opportunity Card is a new points-based residence permit allowing talents in non-EU countries to come to Germany and search for a job on-site. Its biggest difference from the old system is that candidates collecting sufficient points (at least 6 points) from the point system, even if the equivalence process is not completed, can come to Germany. Additionally, card holders are granted a work permit (Nebenbeschäftigung) up to 20 hours a week to provide for their livelihood during the job search process.
What are the basic requirements for application and how does the Scoring System work?
To be able to apply for the Opportunity Card, you must primarily fulfill the "Prerequisites":
A university diploma recognized in your own country or a vocational training certificate of at least 2 years.
Language Proficiency: German certificate at least at A1 level OR English certificate at B2 level (This condition is mandatory).
Candidates fulfilling these prerequisites must reach at least 6 points with points collected from criteria such as age, work experience, language level, previous ties with Germany, and qualifications of the spouse.
A university diploma recognized in your own country or a vocational training certificate of at least 2 years.
Language Proficiency: German certificate at least at A1 level OR English certificate at B2 level (This condition is mandatory).
Candidates fulfilling these prerequisites must reach at least 6 points with points collected from criteria such as age, work experience, language level, previous ties with Germany, and qualifications of the spouse.
How long can I stay in Germany with the Opportunity Card?
The Opportunity Card is issued, as a rule, for a period of 1 year (12 months). During this period, the candidate can conduct job interviews in Germany and participate in trial employments (Probebeschäftigung).
Important: The applicant is required to prove that they can provide for their own livelihood (with a Blocked Account or Employment Contract) during this 1-year process.
Important: The applicant is required to prove that they can provide for their own livelihood (with a Blocked Account or Employment Contract) during this 1-year process.
Is language knowledge just an advantage, or a necessity?
By law, language knowledge is a mandatory entry requirement. To be able to apply, a certificate obtained from authorized institutions proving German (A1) or English (B2) level must be submitted. In the scoring system, however, knowing language at a higher level (Ex: B1 German) increases your chance by earning you extra points.
How does the process work after finding a job, is a transition to permanent residence made?
When you find a full-time job suitable for your qualifications, a status change (Titelwechsel) is made without you needing to exit Germany. Transition is provided from the Opportunity Card status to "Blue Card" or "Skilled Workforce Residence" status. When you complete the legal periods with this new status, you earn the right to obtain a Permanent Residence Permit (Niederlassungserlaubnis).
Our Service: We manage your process as AlternativKraft in the calculation of your points, preparation of your file, and status change transactions after finding a job.
Our Service: We manage your process as AlternativKraft in the calculation of your points, preparation of your file, and status change transactions after finding a job.
