Work Permit in Germany

Germany is renowned for its developed economy and numerous career opportunities, which attracts many foreign professionals. However, the process of obtaining a work permit can be complex and multi-stage. In this article, we will look at how easy it is to obtain a work permit in Germany and what factors influence the process.

Main factors affecting authorisation

1. Qualifications and professional experience Highly qualified professionals, especially in fields such as information technology, engineering and medicine, have a better chance of obtaining a work permit. Higher education and significant work experience are important advantages.
2. Type of work visa There are different types of work visas, each with its own requirements and conditions. For example, obtaining a Blue Card EU for highly skilled professionals may be easier than a general work visa for unskilled workers.
3. Having a job offer A contract or an official job offer from a German employer is a prerequisite for applying for a work visa. The employer must prove that the vacancy cannot be filled by local professionals or EU citizens.
4. Application process The process of applying for a visa and work permit requires careful preparation. It is necessary to gather a complete package of documents including employment contract, proof of qualifications, health insurance and financial guarantees.
5. Language barrier A sufficient command of German can make the process of obtaining a work permit much easier, especially in professions that require communicating with clients or colleagues in German.

Benefits and Challenges

1. Advantages
   • Germany actively attracts highly qualified specialists and provides many support programmes for them.
   • The EU Blue Card provides a number of benefits, including the possibility of obtaining permanent residence after a few years.
2. Challenges
   • The process can be lengthy and bureaucratically complex.
   • Competition for jobs can be high, especially in popular industries.
   • Skills and experience requirements may exclude certain categories of workers.

Germany is an attractive country for foreign professionals due to its many career opportunities and high standard of living. Chinese nationals wishing to work in Germany must go through a number of procedures to obtain a work permit. In this article, we will look at each step of the process in detail.

Step 1: Getting a job offer

The first and most important step is to obtain an official job offer from a German employer. The employer must be willing to provide a contract and support you in the process of obtaining a work permit.

Step 2: Preparing the necessary documents

Chinese nationals will need to prepare the following package of documents to apply for a working visa:

• Completed visa application form: The application form can be downloaded from the website of the German consulate or embassy.
• Valid passport: The passport must be valid for at least three months after the expiry date of the requested visa and have at least two blank pages.
• Passport size photographs: Two recent colour photographs are required.
• Contract or job offer: A document from a German employer stating the working conditions and salary.
• CV and educational documents: Detailed CV and copies of diplomas certified and translated into German or English.
• Health insurance: Health insurance policy valid in Germany.
• Proof of financial solvency: Documents proving that you have sufficient funds to live in Germany.

Step 3: Applying for a visa

Once you have collected all the necessary documents, you need to apply for a visa at a German consulate or embassy in China. The application process includes an appointment for an interview where you will need to submit all documents and answer questions about your travel objectives and future plans.

Step 4: Obtaining a visa and entering Germany

After successful completion of the interview and approval of your visa application, you will be granted a work visa. With this visa you can enter Germany and begin the process of applying for a residence permit.

Step 5: Registering and obtaining a residence permit

Upon arrival in Germany, you must register at the local registration office (Einwohnermeldeamt) within the first two weeks. You must then apply for a residence permit at the local foreigners' office (Ausländerbehörde). You will need:

• Completed questionnaire.
• Passport with visa.
• Proof of registration at the place of residence.
• Job Contract.
• Health Insurance.
• Evidence of financial solvency.

Germany is an attractive country for foreign nationals due to its high standard of living, developed economy and many career opportunities. For Chinese citizens wishing to move and live in Germany, it is important to understand all stages of the process, from document preparation to integration into the new society. In this article, we will look at all the necessary steps for a successful move and life in Germany.
Step 1: Determining the purpose of the move
The first step is to determine the purpose of the move, whether it is for work, study or to reunite with family. Depending on the purpose will vary the type of visa you need to apply for.
Step 2: Obtaining the appropriate visa
1. Work visa For those who have received a job offer in Germany. An employment contract and proof of qualifications must be provided.
2. Study visa For students enrolled in a German educational institution. Proof of enrolment and proof of financial solvency to cover tuition and living expenses are required.
3. Family reunification visa For those who have close relatives living in Germany. Proof of kinship and the financial solvency of the sponsor will be required.
Step 3: Applying for a visa
Prepare the necessary documents to apply for a visa:

• Completed questionnaire.
• A valid passport.
• Passport size photographs.
• Confirmation of the purpose of the visit (employment contract, letter from university, etc.).
• Evidence of financial solvency.
• Health Insurance.

Apply for a visa at a German consulate or embassy in China. Schedule an interview at which you must submit all documents and answer the officer's questions.
Step 4: Arrival in Germany and registration
After obtaining your visa and arriving in Germany:

• Register at the local registration office (Einwohnermeldeamt) within two weeks.
• Open a bank account to simplify your financial transactions.
• Apply for a residence permit (Aufenthaltserlaubnis) at the local foreigners' office (Ausländerbehörde).

Step 5: Integration into German society
Integration into the new society is an important step to living comfortably in Germany:

•  Language learning: It is recommended to start or continue learning German. This will facilitate everyday communication and professional activities.
• Accommodation Search: Find the right accommodation to suit your needs and budget.
• Social integration: Join local communities and clubs to build social connections and adapt more quickly.

Conclusion
Moving and living in Germany for Chinese nationals requires careful preparation and understanding of all the necessary steps. By following the steps outlined above, you will be able to successfully organise your move and adapt to life in your new country. Contacting a professional migration agent from Regulated United Europe can greatly simplify the process and help you avoid possible difficulties.

If you are not a citizen of an EU, EEA or Swiss country and want to work in Germany, you will need a residence permit with a work permit. Here are the main ways to obtain one:

1. EU Blue Card: For highly qualified professionals with a university degree. You will need to submit a contract or job offer with a salary of at least €56,400 per year (or €43,992 for certain professions, e.g. maths, computer science, natural sciences and technology).
2. Job-seeker visa: If you have a university degree, you can obtain a job-seeker visa for up to 6 months. This visa does not allow you to work, but allows you to stay in Germany to look for work.
3. Work permit for qualified professionals: If you have professional qualifications that can be recognised in Germany, you can apply for a work visa. This requires recognition of your qualifications and proof of work in your speciality.
4. Self-employment: If you plan to be self-employed or self-employed, you must prove that your activity is in the economic interests or needs of Germany and has positive economic or financial consequences.
5. Researcher and Research Fellow Programmes: Scientists and researchers may be granted special visas to work on research projects.

For all these cases, you will need to provide relevant documents such as diplomas, qualification certificates, work contracts, proof of financial stability and health insurance. Each type of visa and residence permit has its own requirements and procedures that must be followed in order to successfully obtain authorisation to enter and work in Germany.

The procedure for applying for a work visa to Germany involves several key steps:

1. Determining the type of visa

• First of all, you need to determine the type of visa you require, depending on your professional status and the type of activity you plan to carry out in Germany. For example, it could be a visa for skilled professionals, researchers, self-employed persons or an EU Blue Card for highly skilled workers.

2. Preparation of documents

• Prepare all necessary documents. This step may include:
  • A completed visa application form (the form is available on the website of the German diplomatic mission).
  • A passport that must be valid for at least six months after the intended entry into Germany.
  • Two current photographs that meet biometric standards.
  • Evidence of qualifications (diplomas, certificates).
  • A labour contract or a specific job offer from an employer in Germany.
  • Proof of residence in Germany (rental agreement or proof of accommodation booking).
  • Evidence of financial strength (e.g. bank statements).
  • Health insurance covering the period of stay in Germany.
  • Additional documents such as criminal record certificate (if required), marriage certificates, children's documents, etc.

3. Submitting an application

• Make an appointment at the German diplomatic mission (embassy or consulate) in your country of residence. This can usually be done online on the official website of the diplomatic mission.
• On the day of admission, submit your visa application together with the prepared documents. You may also need biometric data (fingerprints).

4. interviews

• Some types of visas require an interview at an embassy or consulate. During the interview you may be asked about the purpose of your stay, future plans and other details related to your visa.

5. Waiting for a decision

• The processing of your application may take several weeks to several months, depending on the type of visa and individual circumstances. During this process, your application and documents will be checked and approval from the German Federal Employment Agency (if applicable) may be required.

6. Obtaining a visa

• If your application is approved, you will receive a visa in your passport allowing you to enter Germany. This visa will also contain information about whether you are allowed to work in the country.

7. Entering Germany and obtaining a residence permit

• After entering Germany for a certain period of time (usually 3 months), you must register with the local authorities (Bürgeramt) and apply for a residence permit (Aufenthaltstitel) at the local immigration authority (Ausländerbehörde).

8. Obtaining a residence permit

• A residence permit allows you to stay and work legally in Germany. It is issued for a fixed period of time and can be extended if necessary.

This procedure may vary depending on the specific situation and your country of citizenship, so it is advisable to consult the German diplomatic mission in your country in advance.

If you are planning to work or stay in Germany, it is important to know the visa requirements, types of visas, the application process and the fees involved. Here are the main points you need to consider:

Visa requirements - Who needs a visa?

Third-country nationals, i.e. nationals who are not citizens of European Union (EU) Member States, the European Economic Area (EEA) or Switzerland, generally require a visa to enter Germany.

Exemptions:
EU, EEA and Swiss nationals do not need a visa for short stays of up to 90 days within a period of 180 days. The list of countries whose nationals are exempted from visa can be found on the official website.

Liability for visa issuance - Where to apply for a visa?

Visas are issued by German embassies and consulates general in your country of residence. You need to apply at the diplomatic mission that serves your region of residence.

Note: If your main destination is not Germany but another Schengen country, you should apply for a visa at the consulate of that country.

Types of visas - Which visa do I need?

The choice of visa depends on the purpose of your trip and the expected length of stay:

• Schengen visa: for short stays of up to 90 days (e.g. for tourism, business trips).
• National visa: for a long-term stay (more than 90 days), e.g. for work, study or family reunification.

Visa fees - How much does it cost to apply for a visa?

• Schengen visa: usually costs 90 euros.
• National visa: costs 75 euros.

Exemption from fees:
Certain categories of citizens, such as children under 6 years of age, students, participants of scientific conferences, may be exempted from paying visa fees. There are also special exemptions for citizens of certain countries.

Processing time - How long does it take to get a visa?

• Schengen visa: processing usually takes up to 14 working days.
• National visa: may take several months depending on the purpose of your stay.

Application process - How do I apply for a visa?

• Schengen visa: Apply in person at a German diplomatic mission or the relevant visa centre. If you have already been fingerprinted within the last 59 months, personal attendance may not be required.
• National visa: also to be applied for in person. Find out in advance what documents you need to submit to avoid additional enquiries.

Questionnaires and forms

Visa application forms can be downloaded from the official website of the German diplomatic mission or can be obtained in person at a visa application centre. Make sure that you use the form in the correct language corresponding to the diplomatic mission to which you are applying.

More info

For more detailed information, such as specific documents or special requirements, it is advisable to contact the German diplomatic mission in your country of residence.

1. Requirement of work authorisation:
   • Foreign workers who are not citizens of the European Union (EU) or European Free Trade Association (EFTA) countries need a work permit to work in Germany.
   • No work permit is required for EU and EFTA nationals.
2. Work permit as part of a residence permit:
   • The work permit is part of the residence permit and is indicated by a corresponding mark on the document. There is no longer a separate independent work permit.
   • It is important to realise that a residence permit is not automatically accompanied by the right to work. It is important to make sure that your residence permit indicates that you have a work permit.
3. Issuance of residence and work permits:
   • The residence permit, which also includes a work permit, is issued by the responsible immigration authority (Ausländerbehörde) in Germany.
   • In some cases, access to the labour market is regulated by an additional approval of the Federal Employment Agency (Bundesagentur für Arbeit).
4. Dependency of work permit issuance:
   • The issuance of a work permit depends on the professional qualifications of the foreigner and his/her country of origin.
   • There are special rules for some categories of countries, such as countries with special status such as "Best Friends" (e.g. USA, Canada, Australia) or Western Balkan countries.

These key points are important to consider when planning to work in Germany for third-country nationals. If you have specific questions or the situation requires clarification, it is advisable to contact the immigration authorities or seek advice from specialised law firms.

A work permit is a document that allows foreign workers who do not have German citizenship and are not citizens of European Union (EU) or European Free Trade Association (EFTA) countries to carry out professional activities in Germany. A work permit is required for third-country nationals who plan to work in an EU Member State, including Germany.

Key features of work authorisation:

1. Relationship to residence permits: In 2005, the independent work permit was abolished with the adoption of the Immigration Act. Since then, the work permit has not existed as a separate document. Instead, it has become part of the residence permit. The work permit appears as a mark on the residence permit and its presence or absence regulates the foreigner's right to work in Germany.
2. Applicability: A work permit is required for all third-country nationals wishing to work in Germany. This does not apply to EU or EFTA nationals who are entitled to free movement and employment within the European Union without the need for such a permit.
3. Issuance procedure: The work permit included in the residence permit is issued by the responsible German immigration authority (Ausländerbehörde). In some cases, an additional approval of the Federal Employment Agency (Bundesagentur für Arbeit) is required in order to obtain a work permit, especially for unskilled work or certain occupational categories.

A work permit is therefore an integral part of the residence permit process that allows foreigners to work legally in Germany while complying with the established legal regulations and procedures.

A work permit is required for citizens of third countries (i.e. countries outside the European Union (EU) and the European Free Trade Association (EFTA)) who plan to take up employment in Germany. However, there are exceptions and special cases:

1. EU and EFTA citizens:
   • Citizens of EU member states as well as EFTA countries (Liechtenstein, Iceland, Norway and Switzerland) do not need a work permit to work in Germany. These nationals have the right to move freely and take up employment throughout the EU, including Germany, in the same way as German citizens.
2. UK Special Case Study:
   • After Brexit, the UK is no longer part of the EU. However, UK citizens who were living in Germany before 31 December 2020 can continue to work in Germany without time restrictions.
   • UK citizens who entered Germany after 31 December 2020 to work must obtain a work permit and residence permit in accordance with the rules for third-country nationals.
3. Settlement authorisation:
   • Third-country nationals who have been living in Germany for a long time can obtain a settlement permit (Niederlassungserlaubnis). This permit gives them a status that equates their rights on the labour market with those of German citizens. They are thus exempted from the need to obtain a separate work permit.
4. Verification of the need for a work permit:
   • Employers and third-country nationals can check whether they need a work permit via the website of the Federal Employment Agency. Information on possible exceptions to this requirement can also be found there.

Thus, most third-country nationals wishing to work in Germany must obtain a work permit, which is usually issued together with a residence permit. Exceptions are made for EU and EFTA nationals, as well as for certain categories such as UK citizens who lived in Germany before Brexit.

If a work permit is required to work in Germany, the applicant must fulfil a number of requirements. These requirements may vary depending on the specific situation, but there are general conditions that must be fulfilled. However, there are also special rules that relax these requirements for certain categories of applicants.

General requirements for obtaining a work permit in Germany:

1. Specific job offer:
   • The applicant must have a concrete offer of employment in Germany. This offer must be supported by a contract of employment or a letter from the employer.
2. Impact on the labour market:
   • The employment of a foreign national must not have a negative impact on the German labour market. This means that the employer must demonstrate that employing a foreigner will not create an imbalance in the labour market.
3. Priority inspection (Vorrangprüfung):
   • In order to obtain a work permit, it must be ensured that there are no available preferred candidates for the vacancy in question, such as German, EU or EFTA nationals. If no such candidates are available, the foreign national may be granted a work permit.
4. Working Conditions:
   • The working conditions offered to a foreign national must be in line with those applicable to German employees in similar positions. This applies to wages, holiday days, working hours and other aspects of the employment contract.
5. The need for an entry visa:
   • Before applying for a residence permit and a work permit, the applicant may need an entry visa. After entering Germany, this visa can be converted into a residence permit with a work permit.
6. Applicant Qualifications:
   • The decision to issue a work permit also depends on the qualifications of the applicant. Highly qualified specialists, for example, may have a better chance of obtaining a permit.

Special rules and exceptions:

1. Exception for "Best Friends" countries:
   • For nationals of Australia, Israel, Japan, Canada, New Zealand, the Republic of Korea, the USA, the UK, Andorra, Monaco and San Marino, simplified rules apply. Citizens of these countries can apply for a work permit as soon as they enter Germany. The permit is granted irrespective of qualifications and type of employment.
2. Additional requirements for candidates over 45 years of age:
   • Candidates over the age of 45 must earn an annual gross salary of at least 55 per cent of the annual contribution limit (BBG) for general pension insurance, which is €49,830 in 2024. Or they must provide evidence of adequate pension provision.

These conditions help to ensure fair and safe employment of foreign nationals in Germany, maintaining a balance in the labour market and respecting the rights of both foreign and German employees.

If a foreigner plans to work in Germany and meets the established criteria, the next step is to apply for a work permit with the relevant immigration authorities. This process involves several important steps and requires the submission of certain documents.

Basic application documents:

1. Correctly completed questionnaire:
   • The application for a work permit must be completed in accordance with the requirements. Application forms can be downloaded from the website of the relevant immigration authority.
2. Company's employment commitment or employment contract:
   • A company that plans to hire a foreign worker must provide an employment commitment. This may be a specific employment contract or a document confirming the company's intention to conclude an employment contract with a foreigner.
3. Form "Job Description":
   • This form is filled out by the employer and contains information about the position the foreigner will hold, as well as the working conditions, including salary, working hours and other important aspects.

Employer Responsibilities:

The employer must immediately notify the Federal Employment Agency of all details of the employment of the foreign worker. This includes providing information on wages, working hours and general working conditions. Incorrect or incomplete information may result in penalties.

Important tips:

• Cultural fit: Employers should take cultural differences into account when hiring foreign workers. The successful integration of new employees into the team is only possible if cultural sensitivity is taken into account.

It's important to remember:

• Residence permit and work permit: Obtaining a residence permit does not always automatically entitle you to work in Germany. The right to work must be explicitly stated on the residence permit, e.g. with the note "Employment authorised". If this marking is not present, a work permit must be obtained in addition.

This process requires careful consideration on the part of both the foreign worker and the employer in order to comply with all legal regulations and ensure successful employment.

The work permit in Germany is not a separate document, but is recorded as a mark on the electronic residence permit, which looks like an identity card. This document contains the most important personal data as well as information about the residence permit. Depending on the conditions, the work permit may be accompanied by various notes.

Possible notes:

1. "Employment Authorised."
   • This comment means that the foreigner is allowed to work in Germany. It is usually indicated for those who are authorised to work without restrictions.
2. "Employment Authorised."
   • This commentary clarifies that any labour activity, including self-employment, is permitted.
3. Additional Restrictions:
   • In some cases, additional notes are added, such as "employment only with the approval of immigration authorities". This means that employment is possible but requires additional approval from immigration authorities.

These notes help to determine to what extent a foreigner can work in Germany and what additional conditions may apply.

For foreigners with qualified vocational training, the chances of obtaining a work permit in Germany are considerably higher. German law distinguishes between jobs that require:

1. Qualified professional training - compliance with this qualification is confirmed by specialised education.
2. Professional qualification with at least two years' experience - having professional experience combined with qualifications.

Accelerated process of obtaining a work permit

If it is necessary to obtain a work permit within a short timeframe, employers can take advantage of the fast-track process for obtaining a skilled worker. This utilises a power of attorney from a skilled worker, which significantly reduces the processing time for the immigration authority. This process can help employers hire the right person faster.

EU Blue Card for highly qualified professionals

The EU Blue Card was introduced in 2012 to facilitate access to the labour market for highly qualified professionals from countries outside the European Economic Area (EEA) and Switzerland. EU Blue Card holders have a simplified work permit process and the consent of the Federal Employment Agency is no longer required.

Prerequisites for the EU Blue Card:

• The applicant is a citizen of a country outside the EEA and Switzerland.
• Holds a university degree or equivalent qualification.
• Received a specific job offer that matches the qualifications, with a minimum annual salary of at least 50 per cent of the annual contribution limit (BBG) to the general pension insurance (in 2024 this is €45,300 gross).

If it is a shortage occupation (e.g. in the MINT sectors - maths, computer science, science and technology, health, or in certain managerial positions), the minimum wage can be reduced to 45.3% of the BBG (€41,041.80 gross in 2024).

This card offers significant benefits not only for the professional himself, but also for his family members, simplifying the procedure for obtaining a work permit and residence permit in Germany.

Executives and managers in Germany may be suitable for a special form of employment contract known as an employment contract (Anstellungsvertrag), which regulates the rights and obligations of the parties in a special way.

Obtaining a work permit without a qualified vocational qualification in Germany is a significant challenge. However, there are some exceptions that make the process easier:

Special regulation for citizens of the Western Balkans

For citizens of the Western Balkan countries, including Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, Montenegro, Northern Macedonia and Serbia, there is a special regulation allowing access to the German labour market even without formal qualifications.

From June 2024, the number of residence permits issued under this regulation will increase to 50,000 (previously 25,000). However, obtaining a work permit still requires the approval of the Federal Employment Agency. This regulation allows citizens of these countries to work in Germany under certain conditions, even if they do not have a qualified education.

Special regulation of short-term leveraged employment

Third-country nationals can obtain a work permit in Germany for short-term borrowed labour even if they do not have a qualified education. In this case, the Federal Employment Agency provides quotas based on current labour market needs.

In order to obtain a work permit or residence permit approval for such workers, the employer must fulfil a number of conditions:

• The duration of employment shall not exceed eight months within a twelve-month period.
• The minimum working hours must be at least 30 hours per week.
• The employer is obliged to cover all travelling expenses.
• Collective bargaining conditions for foreign workers should be maintained, including wage conditions and social guarantees.

Although this is a short-term job, it does not mean that there is no insurance. Workers hired under this programme are required to have adequate social insurance, which prevents them from working without insurance.

These special rules and regulations allow citizens of certain countries to work in Germany without formal qualifications, while protecting their rights and ensuring that all labour and social standards are met.

From June 2024, the Qualified Immigration Act will come into force in Germany, which will introduce the so-called Opportunity Card for third-country nationals. This card is a residence permit entitling foreigners to stay in Germany to seek employment for up to one year.

The main features of the Opportunity Map are:

1. Expiry date:
   • The Opportunity Card is issued for a period of up to one year.
   • Ability to renew the card for an additional two years if a qualifying job offer is received.
2. Right to work:
   • Foreigners who have received an Opportunity Card may work on a two-week probationary period.
   • Full-time or part-time employment with up to 20 hours per week is permitted.
3. Scoring System:
   • The issuance of the Opportunity Card is based on a point system that takes into account several criteria:
     • Qualifications (education, professional skills).
     • Professional Experience.
     • Language skills (proficiency in German or English).
     • Age (preference for young candidates).
     • Connection with Germany (e.g. previous stay in the country).
   • The set of points for each of these criteria is summed up and based on this sum a decision is made to issue an Opportunity Card.
4. Prerequisite:
   • One of the prerequisites for the Opportunity Card is proof of livelihood for the duration of your stay in Germany.

Opportunity Card Renewal:

• If a foreigner finds a qualified job in Germany during the validity period of the Opportunity Card, he or she can apply for an extension of the card for a further two years.

The Opportunity Card provides flexibility and time to find a job, making it an important tool for those who wish to immigrate to Germany on the basis of skills and qualifications. This residence permit simplifies the process for foreign professionals, giving them the chance to get a job that matches their qualifications and integrate into the German labour market.

The work permit plays a key role for employers planning to hire foreign workers. Under German law, employers are required to follow certain procedures and fulfil a number of obligations to ensure the legality of employment of foreign nationals.

Employer's basic responsibilities:

1. Document verification:
   • Section 4a (5) of the Residence Act requires employers to carefully check the residence permit of employees to ensure that all requirements for legal employment are met. Particular attention is paid to the existence of a work permit.
   • The employer is obliged to check whether the residence permit contains a note on the work permit and what conditions apply to this permit (e.g. restrictions on working hours or type of work).
2. Informing Immigration Authorities:
   • In case of early termination of the employment relationship with a foreign employee, the employer is obliged to inform the relevant immigration authority within four weeks.
3. Keeping copies of documents:
   • The employer is obliged to keep a copy of the employee's residence permit and work permit. This is to ensure that the employer has something to show in case of an inspection by state authorities or other employment-related circumstances.

Recommendations for employers:

• A condition in the contract of employment:
  • It is advisable to include a clause in the employment contract stating that it will only come into effect once the employee has obtained all necessary permits to stay and work in Germany. This protects the employer from legal consequences in the event that the employee is unable to work legally.
• Use of specialised tools:
  • For easy personnel management and monitoring the status of employee documents, such as residence permits and work permits, it is recommended to use specialised personnel management software. One such solution is Personio, which provides functions to organise and store information about employees, including their legal status.

Compliance with all work permit requirements is critical for employers hiring foreign workers. Failure to comply with these requirements can result in serious legal consequences, including fines and other sanctions. Therefore, employers need to closely monitor compliance with all obligations related to the employment of foreign nationals and utilise the tools available to effectively manage the process.