Lana Birley
Freelance writer
Germany, known for its strong economy and job opportunities, has become a top destination for skilled workers worldwide, including those from The Gambia. The journey to settling in Germany for work, however, requires fulfilling several legal and procedural requirements. This article follows the story of Lamin, a Gambian who successfully moved to Germany to build a better life.
Lamin, a 28-year-old IT technician from Banjul, had always dreamed of expanding his career beyond The Gambia. After years of working in his home country, he realized that Germany offered not only better job prospects but also higher wages and professional growth. However, moving to Germany was not simple—he had to go through multiple steps to secure a work visa and integrate into German society.
Step 1: Securing a Job Offer
One of the most important requirements for working in Germany is obtaining a job contract from a German employer. Lamin started by searching for job openings in his field on platforms like:
Make it in Germany (the official German government website for skilled workers)
LinkedIn, Indeed, and StepStone
After applying for several positions, Lamin was offered a job as an IT specialist at a company in Berlin. His employer agreed to provide a formal contract, which was crucial for his visa application.
Step 2: Meeting Visa Requirements
To apply for a German work visa, Lamin needed to meet certain requirements, including:
A Recognized Qualification – Since Lamin studied in The Gambia, he had to check if his diploma was recognized in Germany. He used the Recognition Portal.
A Work Contract – The job offer from a German company was essential for his visa approval.
Proof of Financial Stability – Although he had a job contract, Lamin had to show he could support himself until he received his first salary. His employer’s salary confirmation helped speed up the process.
Visa Application & Interview – With all documents ready, Lamin applied for a work visa at the German Embassy in Banjul. The process took several weeks, and he was required to attend an interview.
Step 3: Arrival and Integration in Germany
Once Lamin’s visa was approved, he moved to Berlin. Upon arrival, he had to:
- Register his address at the local Bürgeramt (citizens’ office)
- Apply for a residence permit at the immigration office as according to Germany-Visa.org, that is crucial for a more extended period than only 90 days.
- Open a bank account to receive his salary
- Learn German to improve communication and integration
Though English is spoken in many workplaces, learning German helped Lamin build connections and understand German laws and culture better.
Lamin’s journey from The Gambia to Germany was challenging but rewarding. By carefully following the visa requirements, securing a job, and preparing for life in Germany, he successfully built a new career and a better future. For Gambians looking to follow a similar path, proper research and preparation are key to making the transition smooth and successful.
