14 Best Unskilled Jobs in Germany for Foreigners (With Visa Sponsorship)
Wondering if it’s possible to find unskilled jobs in Germany for foreigners with visa sponsorship? The answer is yes — Germany’s workforce shortages are opening doors for international applicants in agriculture, hospitality, logistics, and construction.
The good news? Many employers sponsor visas for non-EU citizens, provided you meet basic requirements and apply through legitimate channels.
This guide is your shortcut. I’ll show you the 14 unskilled jobs in Germany that foreigners can apply for, the visas that match them, and exactly how to get from “job seeker abroad” to “employed in Germany.”
14 Unskilled Jobs in Germany for Foreigners That May Offer Visa Sponsorship
| Job Role | Sector | Common Visa Pathway | Estimated Salary (per hour) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Agricultural Worker | Farming | Seasonal Work Visa (Section 18) | €9 – €11 |
| Kitchen Assistant | Hospitality | Seasonal/Temporary Employment Visa | €9 – €12 |
| Warehouse Packer | Logistics | General Employment Visa (with ZAV pre-approval) | €10 – €14 |
| Construction Helper | Construction | Employer-Sponsored Work Visa | €11 – €15 |
| Factory Line Worker | Manufacturing | Temporary Employment Visa | €10 – €13 |
| Cleaning Staff | Facility Services | Employment Visa (if full-time) | €10 – €12 |
| Dishwasher | Hospitality | Seasonal/Temporary Employment Visa | €9 – €11 |
| Delivery Driver | Logistics | Employer-Sponsored Work Visa (may require B license) | €11 – €14 |
| Caretaker (non-medical) | Social Care | Employment Visa (for institutional roles) | €10 – €13 |
| Recycling Sorter | Waste Management | General Employment Visa (ZAV route) | €10 – €12 |
| Room Attendant | Hotel Industry | Seasonal Employment Visa | €9 – €11 |
| Fruit Picker | Agriculture | Seasonal Work Visa (up to 90 days) | €9 – €10 |
| Airport Ground Staff | Transport Services | Employer-Sponsored Visa (varies by company) | €11 – €15 |
| Laundromat Worker | Facility Services | Temporary Employment Visa | €10 – €12 |
Note: Visa eligibility depends on employer authorization, job contract duration, and your country of origin. Always verify job offers and visa options through official sources like Make it in Germany or your nearest German consulate.
Search Current Jobs with Visa Sponsorship
How to Apply for Unskilled Jobs in Germany with Visa Sponsorship
Applying for unskilled jobs in Germany as a non-EU citizen involves several key steps — but with the right guidance, it’s achievable.
Search for Job Offers with Visa Support
Use official or reputable job platforms like:
Look for jobs that mention “visa sponsorship available” or “willing to hire non-EU applicants.” Seasonal work, logistics, and hospitality are common sectors offering such roles.
Employer Applies for Pre-Approval (ZAV)
For certain positions, your prospective employer must obtain pre-approval from the
Zentrale Auslands- und Fachvermittlung (ZAV) — a department of Germany’s Federal Employment Agency. This confirms there are no available German or EU workers for the role and that wages and working conditions are fair.
Apply for a German Work Visa
Once pre-approval is granted, you can apply for a visa at your local German embassy or consulate. You’ll typically need:
- A valid job offer
- ZAV pre-approval letter (if applicable)
- Valid passport
- Proof of accommodation in Germany
- Health insurance valid in Germany
- Evidence of basic German skills (A1 level is often preferred but not always required)
Arrival and Registration in Germany
After your visa is approved, you’ll need to:
- Register your residence within 14 days of arrival (Anmeldung)
- Apply for a residence permit at your local Foreigners’ Office (Ausländerbehörde)
Tip: Always verify job offers and visa steps via official sources like the German Embassy or the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees (BAMF).
📋 Unskilled Job Visa Application Checklist
- ✅ Find job offer from sponsoring employer
- ✅ Confirm if ZAV pre-approval is needed
- ✅ Prepare required documents (passport, insurance, accommodation)
- ✅ Apply for visa at German embassy
- ✅ Register your residence (Anmeldung) in Germany
- ✅ Apply for a residence permit
Minimum Requirements for a German Employment Visa (Unskilled Jobs)
- A formal job offer from a German employer willing to sponsor a visa
- Pre-approval from the Federal Employment Agency (ZAV), depending on the role
- Valid passport and completed visa application
- Proof of accommodation in Germany
- Basic German language proficiency (A1–A2 level) — highly recommended, but sometimes optional
- Health insurance coverage for your stay
- Proof of sufficient financial means to support yourself until your first paycheck
Considering Your Options? If Germany doesn’t seem like the right fit, explore these alternatives:
Benefits of Taking Unskilled Jobs in Germany with Sponsorship
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- Legally regulated wages: Germany enforces a national minimum wage (currently €12.41/hour as of 2025).
- Path to long-term stay: With stable employment and language learning, you may become eligible for residence renewal and even permanent residency. Germany isn’t the only country offering pathways to permanent residence – explore similar opportunities with jobs for immigrants in the USA or New Zealand work options.
- Strong labor protections: German law ensures paid holidays, health insurance, and fair working hours.
- Opportunities to upskill: Many unskilled workers go on to qualify for skilled jobs through apprenticeships or further training.
For more comprehensive information about German immigration, read our detailed Germany visa guide for immigrants.
FAQs – Unskilled Jobs in Germany for Foreigners
The following are some of the essential questions regarding unskilled jobs in Germany:
Can I apply for an unskilled job in Germany without speaking the German language?
Yes, some seasonal or labor-intensive jobs do not require fluency in a specific language. However, basic language skills (A1–A2) greatly improve your chances and integration.
How long does the visa process take?
On average, 6 to 12 weeks, depending on your home country and whether ZAV approval is needed. Always check with your local German Embassy.
Can my family come with me?
Yes — under Germany’s family reunification laws, spouses and children may join you if you meet minimum income and housing requirements. For comparison, see how family visas work in Canada or family migration to Australia
Are unskilled jobs secure?
These jobs are often seasonal or temporary, though some can lead to longer contracts. Be cautious of contracts shorter than 3 months.
Bottom line – Your Path to a New Life in Germany
Securing an unskilled job in Germany with visa sponsorship isn’t just about filling a position — it’s about opening the door to a new life. Germany is hiring foreign workers right now, and many employers will sponsor your visa if you’re motivated and ready.
So here’s your move:
- Search for sponsorship jobs on Make it in Germany or Jobbörse.
- Apply to multiple employers at once.
- Get your documents ready and start the visa process.
Ready to get started? Apply today and turn “looking for a chance abroad” into “working in Germany legally.”