Skilled Worker Visa (Qualified) vs Skilled Worker Visa

Maintained by Senne Bels, Founder, Transita

If you're choosing between these two, the question usually comes down to cost, processing speed, and where you want to work. The UK Skilled Worker demands a points-based assessment and language test but offers a direct 5-year path. Germany's option is cheaper and faster to process, but with stricter education requirements. Your choice depends on job market access, budget, and timeline.

Further reading: UK Skilled Worker Visa guide

1. 01

   Budget constraints

   Pick §18a AufenthG

   Pick Germany if cost is critical. The $100 fee is significantly lower.

   Pick Skilled Worker

   Pick UK if you can afford the $3,290 application fee for established job markets.

2. 02

   Processing speed

   Pick §18a AufenthG

   Pick Germany if you can wait. Processing takes 2-5 months but visa is cheaper.

   Pick Skilled Worker

   Pick UK if you need a decision quickly. Processing takes 1-3 months.

3. 03

   Language requirements

   Pick §18a AufenthG

   Pick Germany if you prefer skipping language tests. No test required for this visa.

   Pick Skilled Worker

   Pick UK if you're confident in English. A language test is mandatory.

4. 04

   Points-based assessment

   Pick §18a AufenthG

   Pick Germany if you want to avoid points systems. Just need a bachelor's degree and job offer.

   Pick Skilled Worker

   Pick UK if your qualifications and salary easily meet the points threshold.

Is the Skilled Worker Visa (Qualified) or the Skilled Worker Visa faster to get?

The Skilled Worker Visa (Skilled Worker) is typically faster, around 1–3 months, versus 2–5 months for the Skilled Worker Visa (Qualified). Real timelines depend on the country's caseload and how complete your application is.

Which costs more, the §18a AufenthG or the Skilled Worker?

The Skilled Worker Visa (Skilled Worker) costs more, about $3,290 in official fees, versus $100 for the Skilled Worker Visa (Qualified) (§18a AufenthG). Both figures are government fees only and exclude legal, translation, and relocation costs.

Can I get permanent residency with the Skilled Worker Visa (Qualified) or the Skilled Worker Visa?

The §18a AufenthG leads to permanent residency in roughly 4 years, while the Skilled Worker leads to permanent residency in roughly 5 years. If long-term settlement is the goal, weight the route with the clearer PR pathway more heavily.

Do the §18a AufenthG and Skilled Worker need a job offer?

Yes. Both the §18a AufenthG and the Skilled Worker require a job offer or employer sponsorship before you apply. Securing an eligible employer is the critical first step for either route.