How studying German in Germany could be the path to permanent residence for international students

With favorable migration policies and a heated labor market, studying German in Germany went from being just a temporary experience to becoming a strategic investment in the future.

Unlike other European destinations that make it difficult for foreigners to stay after completing their studies, Germany offers a progressive and well-structured path. From the moment you set foot on German soil as a student to obtaining permanent residence, each step has been carefully planned to integrate international talent into the local labor market.

‍

Why Germany makes it easier for international students to stay

The aging German population created an unprecedented demand for qualified professionals. According to recent data, the country needs to fill more than 400,000 vacancies annually in various sectors. This reality transformed international students into valuable assets for the German economy.

German immigration policy recognizes that investing in the training of young foreign talent benefits society as a whole. For this reason, the government implemented measures that facilitate the transition from student to worker and, later, permanent resident. This pragmatic approach attracts thousands of Brazilians every year.

When opting for study and work in Germany, you are already starting your journey within this favorable system. During the German course or any other academic program, it is possible to work up to 20 hours a week, gaining local professional experience while developing fluency in the language.

‍

The student visa: first step towards permanence

The German student visa is remarkably flexible when compared to other European countries. In addition to allowing full-time studies, it authorizes part-time work throughout the academic year and full-time work during vacation. This feature makes it possible to partially defray your expenses while building a local curriculum.

To obtain a visa, you must prove basic proficiency in German or English (depending on the course), submit a letter of acceptance from a recognized institution, and demonstrate financial capacity through the blocked account. This process, although bureaucratic, is fully manageable with proper guidance.

A crucial detail: the student visa can be renewed as many times as necessary while you maintain active enrollment. This means that it is possible to take a language course, then a degree and then a master's degree, staying legally in the country for several years.

‍

From the classroom to the labor market: the 18 golden months

After completing your studies in Germany, you are entitled to a job search visa with a duration of 18 months. This period is fundamental and sets Germany apart from many other destinations. During those 18 months, you can work in any area without restrictions, allowing you complete flexibility to find a position aligned with your professional goals.

Many Brazilians take advantage of this period to do intensive networking, participate in industry events, and apply for vacancies in large companies. The professional experience gained during the studies counts in your favor, as employers value those who are already familiar with the German work environment.

Os Wages in Germany in 2025 are competitive, with the minimum set at €12.82 per hour. This represents approximately €2,222 per month on a full basis, an amount that allows you to live comfortably while building your career.

‍

Blue Card: accelerating the path to permanent residence

For highly qualified professionals, European Blue Card represents a valuable shortcut. This document is granted to those with a recognized university degree and a job offer with a salary above a specific level (generally €56,400 per year, or €43,800 for professions in short supply).

With the Blue Card, you can apply for permanent residence after just 33 months of contributing to the German social system. This period reduces to 21 months if you demonstrate advanced proficiency in German (level B1). Compare that with other European countries where the process can take 5 years or more.

The Blue Card also offers flexibility to bring family members, switch employers easily, and move freely around the European Union. For Brazilians who complete higher education in Germany, obtaining this document becomes significantly simpler, as you will already have the recognized local degree and professional experience in the country.

‍

Be Easy partner universities: your gateway to quality

Choosing the right institution makes all the difference in this journey. Be Easy works exclusively with the University of Europe for Applied Sciences (UE), an institution that understands the needs of international students and offers programs aligned with the German labor market.

The EU has three strategically located campuses. In Berlin, you experience the capital's startup and innovation ecosystem. Hamburg offers connections to the port sector and international trade. Iserlohn, on the other hand, provides a more traditional experience in a classical German university environment.

The EU's differential lies in its hands-on methodology, with small classes that facilitate networking and practical projects developed in partnership with real companies. Many students receive job offers from the very companies where they carried out academic projects.

‍

Proficiency in German: an essential investment

While there are programs taught in English, mastering German exponentially multiplies your opportunities. As best universities in Germany offer free language programs for international students, facilitating integration.

For those who are still in Brazil, there are preparatory online course options. Investing in learning German before traveling speeds up your adaptation and allows you to make better use of opportunities from day one. Certifications such as TestDaF or Goethe-Zertifikat are widely accepted for academic and professional purposes.

During your studies in Germany, you will be constantly exposed to the language in real situations: shopping, transportation, social activities. This natural immersion complements formal learning and develops functional fluency quickly. Many students report significant progress as early as the first six months.

‍

Financial proof: the blocked account explained

A fundamental requirement for a visa is the Blocked account, a special bank account where you deposit €11,904 (2024 amount). This amount is blocked and released in monthly installments of €992 during your first year in Germany.

Although it seems like a high amount initially, it guarantees that you will have resources to support yourself as you adapt to the country. In addition, as a student you will be able to work and supplement your income, making the experience financially sustainable.

Banks like Expatrio and Fintiba facilitate the opening of this account while still in Brazil, with simplified online processes. Be Easy offers complete guidance on required documentation and deadlines to meet.

‍

From student to resident: realistic timeline

Let's outline a typical path to permanent residence. You start with a 6-12 month intensive German course. During this period, she works part-time, learns the language and does networking. Then, enter a 3-4 year degree or professional program.

While graduating, she continues to work part-time, accumulates experience and builds professional relationships. After graduation, use the 18-month search visa to find employment in your area. With a job offer, you get a work visa or Blue Card.

If you choose the Blue Card and demonstrate German level B1, you can apply for permanent residence after just 21 months of full-time work. All in all, we are talking about approximately 5-6 years from your arrival in Germany to permanent residence, an internationally competitive period.

‍

Data reveals unique opportunity for Brazilians

Recent research by the Institute of German Economics showed that Brazilians are among the nationalities with the highest salaries in the country, surpassing even native Germans in some sectors. With an average of €4,565 per month, Brazilian professionals demonstrate high adaptability and technical qualification.

Sectors such as technology, engineering, healthcare, and data sciences are in increasing demand. German companies value the cultural diversity that international professionals bring, creating a favorable environment for those who invest in local qualifications.

The German labor market operates with transparency and meritocracy. Your chances of success depend primarily on your qualification, experience, and command of the language, not on personal connections or subjective factors.

‍

Benefits beyond a career: German quality of life

Permanent residence in Germany means access to one of the best health and education systems in the world. Efficient public transport, high safety and work-life balance are part of everyday German life.

With permanent residence, you can move freely around the European Union, facilitating travel and professional opportunities in the EU. Your children will have access to free high-quality public education, including universities.

The German pension system guarantees a decent retirement after years of contribution. Paid vacation of 30 days a year, generous maternity/paternity leave, and robust labor protection round out the benefits package.

‍

Overcoming Common Adaptation Challenges

Initial adaptation requires resilience. The harsh winter, German red tape, and cultural differences may seem like obstacles. However, thousands of Brazilians demonstrate that these challenges can be overcome with adequate preparation.

Brazilian communities established in cities such as Berlin, Munich, and Frankfurt offer mutual support. Online groups, cultural events, and associations facilitate the creation of support networks. The sense of isolation diminishes quickly when you connect with others in the same situation.

The initially strange German mentality of respect for rules and punctuality becomes natural over time. Many Brazilians report that they learn to value the predictability and organization characteristics of local culture.

‍

Financial planning: how much do you need

In addition to the initial blocked account, plan resources for airfare, health insurance, first purchases, and emergencies. An additional amount of €3,000-5,000 provides comfort in the first few months while you settle down.

Remember that you will be able to work from the start, generating income that complements your resources. Many students are able to cover rent and food with their part-time salary, saving the money in the blocked account for other expenses.

Cost of living varies by city. Berlin and Hamburg are more expensive than smaller cities, but they also offer more job opportunities. Assessing this balance is important in planning.

‍

Be Easy

Be Easy connects Brazilians to real opportunities for international growth through personalized programs that include language preparation, visa orientation, and career planning in Germany. Contact us and transform your dream of permanently residing in Europe into a concrete reality.