International employment - for employers

Finding the right job is the first step towards your professional future. In Münsterland, there are numerous job vacancies in various sectors - from skilled trades and industry to care, administration or IT. The following list offers a selection of job portals, which does not claim to be exhaustive. These portals are free of charge for job seekers.

HOW DO YOU APPLY IN GERMANY?

Firstly, find out about the application requirements of the company you would like to apply to. Many companies use their own online application portals or request a written application. A convincing written application usually consists of the following components:

1. cover letter / letter of motivation: A short text (one page) in which you explain

• why you are interested in the position
• what you have done so far (e.g. internships, training, work)
• Why you are a good fit for the job and the company

2. curriculum vitae (CV): A tabular overview from new to old of your personal details, education, work experience, languages and skills. Your current qualifications should be immediately recognisable - well structured, dated and signed.

3. certificates and supporting documents: You should include copies of references, proof of employment or certificates if you have any - preferably with a translation into German or English.

4. application photo (optional, but usual): In Germany, it is often customary to have a professional photo on your CV - but this is optional.

IMPORTANT: Your application documents are like a business card: they open the door to the interview - and in the interview you can show who you are! Many employers don't just look for qualifications, but above all for motivation, reliability and interest.

WHAT IS IMPORTANT AT THE INTERVIEW?

If your application is convincing, you will be invited to an interview - in person, by video or over the phone. The employer wants to get to know you better.

Typical questions in a job interview are
(note: the German language is often used in the first interview):

• Can you briefly describe your professional background?
• Why do you want to learn or practise this profession?
• What are you good at? Where do you already have experience?
• What do you know about our company or the advertised position?

Tips for a good interview:

• Be punctual (better to be there 10 minutes early).
• Dress neatly (clean, well-groomed, suitable for the job).
• Speak openly, friendly and honestly.
• Address your contact person correctly.
• Prepare questions - e.g. about work, the team or the daily work routine or training programme.
• Show that you are motivated and keen to learn.

You can find many more helpful tips on "Make it in Germany".

If you want to work in Germany, it is important to know your rights and obligations . Below you will find important information on the topics of employment contracts, employee protection and labour law in Germany.

Before you start your job, you will usually receive a written employment contract. It sets out all the important details about your job:

• Your personal details and those of the employer
• Start (and possibly end) of the employment relationship
• Your exact job and tasks
• Your working hours (e.g. 40 hours per week)
• Your salary (monthly gross or hourly gross)
• Holiday days (at least 20 days for a 5-day week)
• Notice period
• Probationary period (usually 3-6 months)

IMPORTANT: Read the contract carefully before you sign it. If you don't understand something, ask or seek advice. The Federal Employment Agency's salary atlas can serve as an initial guide for salary negotiations.

If you want to work in Germany, it is important that you know the basic rules about pay and protection. Here you will find an overview of minimum wage, taxes and social security.

MINIMUM WAGE

There is a statutory minimum wage in Germany. This means that no employer is allowed to pay you less than is legally permitted. Since 1 January 2026, the statutory minimum wage has been 13.90 euros gross per hour. For a full-time job (e.g. 40 hours per week), you will receive at least approx. 2,406.50 euros gross per month. The minimum wage applies to all employees, including skilled workers from abroad. There are only exceptions in a few cases, e.g. for voluntary internships or for young people under the age of 18 without a vocational qualification.

TAXES

In Germany, you pay part of your income as taxes to the state. These are automatically deducted from your salary. The most important taxes:

• Income tax: Depends on your income and tax bracket.
• Solidarity surcharge: A small additional amount (only applies to higher incomes).
• Church tax: Only if you are a member of a recognised church (e.g. Catholic or Protestant).

How much is left over?
The amount you actually receive is called your net salary - this is your gross salary minus taxes and social security contributions. Use an online calculator to work out your net salary.

TAX RETURN

In Germany, you are required to submit an income tax return in most cases. It shows the tax office how much you have earned and what taxes you have already paid. A tax return is often worthwhile because overpaid taxes are refunded. Every year there is a basic tax-free allowance that you can earn without paying tax. In 2026, this is €12,348. Income below this amount is not taxed.

How to do your tax return:

• Apply for a tax ID: After registering with the residents' registration office, you will automatically receive your tax ID. You will need this number for your tax return.
• Collect your income tax statement: Your employer will give you a certificate at the end of the year with all the important information about your income and the taxes you have paid.
• Fill in the form: You can do the declaration online via ELSTER or with the help of a tax advisor who will support you.
• Submit your tax return: You normally have to submit it by 31 July of the following year. The deadline can be extended with the help of a tax advisor.
• Check your tax assessment notice: The tax office will send you a notice. Check it carefully. If there are any errors, you can lodge an objection within one month.

TIP: Collect all receipts, e.g. for travel expenses or insurance, right from the start.

SOCIAL INSURANCE

Germany has a social insurance system that protects you if you fall ill, have an accident or retire. You are automatically insured if you are employed. The five most important insurances:

• Health insurance: Covers visits to the doctor, treatment, medication and hospitalisation. Here you can find a list of statutory health insurance companies in Germany from the GKV-Spitzenverband.
• Care insurance: Supports you if you are dependent on care or care for relatives.
• Unemployment insurance: Gives you financial support and advice if you lose your job.
• Pension insurance: Builds up your pension for old age.
• Accident insurance: Protects you in the event of an accident at work or occupational illness.

Who pays the contributions?
Social security contributions are deducted directly from your salary - you don't have to pay them yourself. Your employer pays around half of the costs.