Going abroad for work requires proper preparation. Before starting a job in another country, it is worth checking which formalities need to be completed and what documents may be required by the employer or local authorities. This helps avoid unnecessary stress after arrival and allows you to start working more quickly.
For many years, Germany has remained one of the most popular destinations for migrant workers. Fortunately, for EU citizens the procedures are relatively simple. Nevertheless, there are several documents that are essential when starting a job in Germany.
Latest job offers in Germany on europa.jobs
Identity document
The basic requirement when traveling to Germany for work is a valid document confirming your identity. This can be either an identity card or a passport.
Before leaving, it is worth checking the expiration date of your document. If your ID card or passport expires while you are abroad, it does not mean you cannot continue staying in Germany – a new document can be issued at a Polish consulate or embassy. However, it is still advisable to make sure your document is valid before departure, as having a valid ID makes it much easier to handle formalities, sign contracts, or use banking services.
German tax identification number (Steuer-ID)
One of the main documents required to work in Germany is the Steuerliche Identifikationsnummer, also known as the German tax identification number.
This number is assigned to every person who registers their address in Germany. It is issued only once and remains the same for life. After registering your residence, the tax office sends the number by post to your address.
The employer needs this number to correctly calculate your salary and pay the required taxes.
Social security number (Sozialversicherungsnummer)
Another important element is the social security number, known as the Sozialversicherungsnummer.
Every employee working in Germany is covered by the mandatory social security system. This number is usually assigned automatically when you start your first job in Germany and remains connected to you throughout your entire professional career.
The document containing this number is required, among other things, for pension contributions and when starting future jobs in Germany.
Health insurance
Health insurance is also mandatory in Germany. People who start working must be registered with one of the health insurance funds, known as Krankenkasse.
Usually, the employee chooses the health insurance provider, and the employer registers the worker in the insurance system. The health insurance contribution is paid jointly by the employee and the employer.
Bank account and IBAN number
In most companies, salaries are paid via bank transfer. For this reason, employees should have a bank account with an IBAN number, which they provide to their employer.
Many people open an account in a German bank, but in practice it is often also possible to use an account from another bank within the European Union.
Is registration required to work in Germany?
Germany has what is known as a registration obligation. People who plan to live in a particular place for more than a few weeks should register their address at the local registration office (Bürgeramt).
Registration is often required when handling many administrative matters, such as opening a bank account or obtaining a tax identification number. Without registration, completing employment-related formalities may be more difficult.
Working in Germany
For EU citizens, taking up employment in Germany is relatively simple because they do not need a work permit. It is usually enough to sign a contract with an employer and complete the basic administrative procedures.
If you are considering working abroad, it is worth checking current job listings. On our platform europa.jobs you can find the latest job offers in Germany – especially for people who are open to working in various industries.
