The sun rising over the skyscrapers of Dubai. The smell of a fresh croissant in a Parisian office. The vastness of the Australian outback that awaits you after a successful day at work. A job abroad is a life experience that broadens your horizons and opens up unexpected opportunities.
But there is often an obstacle between you and your dream job abroad that many people underestimate: bureaucracy. Unlike a vacation adventure, you need official documents to work abroad, which have to be translated and notarized.
The good news is that with the right preparation and knowledge of the necessary steps, you can overcome these bureaucratic hurdles with confidence. In this guide, we show you which documents you need for different countries, how the certification process works and how you can avoid typical pitfalls that cost other emigrants valuable time and nerves.
Table of contents
- Preparation phase: The right documents at the right time
- Country-specific document requirements
- Case study: How Markus had his engineering degree recognized for Canada
- The document checklist and contact points for authorities by country
- Contract phase: What to look out for in foreign-language employment contracts
- Relocation phase: Documents for daily life abroad
- Work phase: Ongoing documentary obligations abroad
- Current developments: Remote work and digital nomad visas
- Conclusion: Your path to successful work abroad
1st preparation phase: What documents you need for your job abroad
Before you start detailed planning, you should know which basic documents are required for almost every country:
- Passport (with sufficient validity, often at least 6 months beyond the end of the visa)
- Birth certificate (often for residence permit and work permit)
- University certificates and diploma certificates (for the recognition of qualifications)
- Employment references (for proof of professional experience)
- Certificate of good conduct (for security-relevant areas or certain visas)
- Marriage certificate (if applicable, essential for family reunification)
- Proof of language skills (e.g. TOEFL, IELTS, DELF)
When do you need to start preparing the documents?
Obtaining and notarizing documents can be surprisingly time-consuming. Here is a rough timeline:
The difference between a simple translation and a certified translation
A common source of error: Many emigrants have their documents translated, but overlook the fact that a simple translation is often not enough. The difference is significant:
Simple translation:
- Produced by any translator or with the help of artificial intelligence
- Has no official status
- Not recognized by authorities
Certified translation:
- Is prepared by a state-authorized or sworn translator
- Contains an authentication formula and seal
- Confirms the accuracy and completeness of the translation
- Is internationally legally valid (especially with apostille)
A certified translation is therefore an important component in most cases if you want to work abroad. The extra investment pays off, as incorrect or insufficiently certified documents can delay the entire process or even cause it to fail.
2. country-specific document requirements
The requirements for your documents vary greatly depending on the destination country. Here are the most important specifics for popular emigration destinations:
USA: The land of opportunity - and bureaucracy
Special document features:
- Academic degrees: Often need to be verified by specialized evaluation services such as WES (World Education Services)
- Apostille: Required for all official documents
- Employment reference: Must be a detailed letter of employment that precisely describes the duration, position and areas of responsibility
- Certificate of good conduct: Required for most work visas, must not be older than 6 months
Visa specifics:
- H-1B (skilled worker visa): Requires proof of a university degree or extensive professional experience
- L-1 (internal transfer): Requires proof of at least one year of employment with the sending company
- O-1 (Exceptional Abilities): Requires extensive evidence of special qualifications
Great Britain: Post-Brexit special features
Special document features:
- Points-based immigration system: proof of language skills, qualifications and job offer must be certified
- Healthcare Surcharge: Proof of payment of the NHS contribution
- Financial proof: Proof of sufficient financial means (varies depending on the visa)
Special feature since Brexit:
- EU citizens now need work visas with similar document requirements as other international applicants
Switzerland: As precise as a Swiss watch
Special document features:
- Employment contract: Must be in one of the official languages (German, French, Italian)
- Certificate of registration: Within 14 days of arrival at the municipality
- Proof of training: A certificate of equivalence is often required for regulated professions
For German citizens:
- EU citizens require a B residence permit for long-term stays
- Certified diplomas and references are particularly important for highly qualified positions
Australia: Down Under with high standards
Special document features:
- ANZSCO Occupational Classification: Evidence must match the requirements of the Australian Occupational Classification
- Skills assessment: Mandatory assessment of professional qualifications by competent Australian bodies
- Proof of English: IELTS or comparable certificate
Visa options:
- Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189): Points-based system without employer support
- Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186): Requires employer support and evidence of required qualifications
- Working Holiday Visa: Limited work opportunity for young people up to the age of 30. You can find the exact requirements and conditions in our Working Holiday Visa blog.
Does the country selection not suit you? In the Remote Work Permit guide you will find further requirements for Portugal, Estonia, Croatia, ARE and Spain.
3. case study: How Markus had his engineering degree recognized for Canada
Markus, 34, a mechanical engineer from Dresden, received an attractive job offer from a company in Toronto. But before he could pack his bags, he faced the challenge of having his German engineering degree recognized in Canada.
The challenge
"I had no idea how complex the process would be," Markus recalls."My diploma is recognized in Germany, but that doesn't automatically count in Canada."
The solution step by step
1. researching the requirements Markus researched that his profession is regulated in Canada and must be recognized by Professional Engineers Ontario (PEO).
2. document preparation He needed:
- Originaldiploma and certificates
- Certified English translations of all documents
- Detailed course descriptions of his studies
- Job references with precise job descriptions
3. notarization process "The critical point was the certified translation. I didn't just need a translation, I needed one that was done by a sworn translator with an apostille."
4 Qualification assessment Markus submitted his documents to WES (World Education Services), who carried out a comparative assessment of his training.
5 PEO registration With the WES assessment, he was able to apply for professional recognition, but still had to pass an exam on Canadian engineering law and ethics.
The result
After four months, Markus received provisional recognition as an "Engineer in Training" and was able to start his job. After a year of work experience in Canada, he received full recognition as a "Professional Engineer".
"Without the correctly notarized documents, I would probably have had to repeat the process, which would have cost me months. The investment in professional certified translations has definitely paid off."
Are you toying with the idea of working abroad for a while like Markus, but are still unsure where to start? Platforms like Auslandsjob can help you find suitable jobs in your desired country.
4. the document checklist and authorities contact point by country
To make things easier for you, we have put together a detailed checklist by country. You can see at a glance which documents are particularly important for your desired country and which form of legalization they require.
USA
| Document | Special features |
|---|---|
| University degree | WES evaluation recommended |
| Employment references | Formatted as "Letter of Employment |
| Certificate of good conduct | Max. 6 months old |
| Passport | Valid for at least 6 months after the visa expires |
| Birth certificate | Essential for a green card |
| Financial documents | Bank statements for at least 3 months |
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)
- Responsibility: work permits, visas, immigration
- Website: www.uscis.gov
- Special feature: Responsible for the H-1B and other work visas
World Education Services (WES)
- Responsibility: Assessment of foreign educational qualifications
- Website: www.wes.org
- Special feature: Recognized by most US employers
Department of State
- Responsibility: Consular affairs, visa interviews
- Website: travel.state.gov
Great Britain
| Document | Special features |
|---|---|
| University degree | Qualification assessment necessary |
| Employment references | Detailed job description |
| Language certificate | IELTS/TOEFL, at least B1/B2 |
| Passport | Biometric passport preferred |
| Financial statement | Different amounts depending on the visa |
| Employment contract | From the British employer |
UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI)
- Responsibility: All visa matters
- Website: www.gov.uk/uk-visas-immigration
UK ENIC (formerly UK NARIC)
- Responsibility: Recognition of international qualifications
- Website: www.enic.org.uk
Office for Students
- Responsibility: Registration for academic professions
- Website: www.officeforstudents.org.uk
Switzerland
| Document | Special features |
|---|---|
| University degree | For regulated professions: Equivalence test |
| Employment references | Complete proof recommended |
| Employment contract | Must meet Swiss standards |
| Passport/IDcard | ID card is sufficient for EU citizens |
| Registration certificate | Bring from Germany |
| Proof of health insurance | Alternative: Swiss insurance |
State Secretariat for Migration (SEM)
- Responsibility: residence permits, work permits
- Website: www.sem.admin.ch
State Secretariat for Education, Research and Innovation (SERI)
- Responsibility: Recognition of educational qualifications
- Website: www.sbfi.admin.ch
Cantonal migration offices
- Responsibility: Regional implementation of immigration laws
- Special feature: Responsibilities vary depending on the canton
Australia
| Document | Special features |
|---|---|
| University degree | Skills assessment by Australian agency |
| Employment references | ANZSCO-compliant formulation |
| IELTS/Language certificate | Mostly band 7-8 for Skilled Visas |
| Police clearance certificate | From all countries with >12 months residence |
| Health certificate | From a licensed physician |
| Proof of identity | Passport + other ID documents |
Department of Home Affairs
- Responsible for: visas, immigration, work permits
- Website: www.homeaffairs.gov.au
- Special feature: ImmiAccount for online visa applications
Vocational Education and Training (VET)
- Responsibility: Assessment of professional qualifications
- Website: www.vetassess.com.au
Engineers Australia
- Responsibility: Recognition of engineering degrees
- Website: www.engineersaustralia.org.au
UAE/Dubai
| Document | Special features |
|---|---|
| University degree | Recognition by the UAE Ministry of Education |
| Employment references | Detailed job description |
| Birth certificate | For Residence Visa |
| Certificate of good conduct | Original max. 3 months old |
| Marriage certificate | Essential for family reunification |
General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA)
- Responsibility: residence permits, visa matters
- Website: gdrfad.gov.ae (Dubai)
Ministry of Human Resources & Emiratization (MOHRE)
- Responsibility: work permits, employment contracts
- Website: www.mohre.gov.ae
UAE Embassy in Germany
- Responsibility: Consular legalizations
- Website: www.mofa.gov.ae
On the world map you can see at a glance how strict the authentication rules are in different regions.
5th contract phase: What to look out for in foreign-language employment contracts
An employment contract abroad is often very different from what you are used to in Germany. Understanding these differences correctly can be crucial for your professional future.
Typical pitfalls in international employment contracts
Protection against dismissal and probationary period:
- Germany: Strict protection against dismissal, usually 6-month probationary period
- USA: "At-will employment" - termination by both parties possible without cause
- UAE: Often open-ended contracts with easy terminability
- UK: Mostly "statutory notice period" based on length of service
Working hours and overtime:
- Germany: Strict working time laws, overtime compensation
- Asia (Japan, Singapore): Often expected to work unlimited overtime
- USA: Overtime depending on position ("exempt" vs. "non-exempt")
- Australia: Award rates for overtime depending on the industry
Vacation entitlement:
- Germany: At least 20 working days by law (usually 25-30)
- USA: No legal entitlement, often only 10-15 days
- UAE: 30 calendar days after one year (incl. weekends)
- Australia: 20 working days + "long service leave"
Tax and social security aspects
Double taxation agreements: Germany has agreements with many countries to avoid double taxation. Your employment contract should clearly state in which country you are liable to pay tax.
Social security issues:
- Within the EU: Social security regulations via A1 certificate
- Outside the EU: check whether a bilateral social security agreement exists
- Do not lose entitlements to German pension insurance (voluntary continued insurance possible)
6. relocation phase: documents for house hunting, bank accounts, insurances
The practical aspects of everyday life in the new country also require special documents. Here are the most important areas and the documents required in each case:
Documents for your successful apartment search abroad:
| Country | Standard documents | Special features |
|---|---|---|
| USA | Credit report, proof of income, SSN | Previous rental history must be presented |
| UK | 3 monthly salaries, credit report | "Right to Rent" certificate |
| Switzerland | Extract from the debt collection register, certificate of earnings | "Apartment handover protocol" |
| Australia | 100-point ID check, proof of income | "Rental ledger" a type of account statement for rental relationships |
| UAE | Employment contract, salary certificate | Marriage certificate for couples |
Open a bank account
You will need various documents to open a bank account abroad, which can vary depending on the country. For more extensive account packages, an employment contract and proof of income are usually required. Also note that the required tax number varies from country to country - in the USA you need a Social Security Number, in Australia a Tax File Number.
The regional particularities should not be underestimated:
- USA: Building up a credit score takes time; you must expect high security requirements at the beginning
- UK: Without a local credit history, you usually only get access to a basic account
- Asia: Minimum opening amounts or minimum balances apply in many countries
- Switzerland: The requirements vary considerably depending on the canton
Allow sufficient time to open an account abroad and find out in advance about the specific requirements of the bank in question.
Insurance abroad
Appropriate insurance cover is important when working abroad. International health insurance requires your medical records and existing policies - note that pre-existing conditions can lead to higher costs. For your mobility you need:
- Health insurance: previous health file, existing policies
- Car insurance: International driving license, no-claims bonus
- Household contents insurance: Proof of value for high-value items
- Professional liability: Proof of qualifications, previous professional experience
German insurance histories are often not fully recognized internationally. Get international insurance certificates in English from your German insurers before you leave the country to make recognition easier.
7th work phase: Ongoing document requirements for your work abroad
The documentary requirements do not end when you start working in the new country. You should keep this in mind regularly while working abroad:
Regular documentary obligations
Visa and residence permit:
- Extensions: Keep an eye on deadlines (often 1-3 months before expiry)
- Status changes: E.g. from temporary to permanent residence
- Proof required: Current employment contracts, proof of salary, proof of residence
Tax obligations:
- Annual tax returns: Both in the host country and, if applicable, in Germany
- Tax residence certificates: For the tax office in Germany
- Proof of foreign income: monthly payslips
Documents when changing jobs abroad
If you change employer within the host country, you will be subject to additional document requirements:
Regulatory requirements:
- Permission to change employer: In most countries outside the EU, you must submit an official application before you can change jobs. In Singapore and Japan this can take up to 4 weeks, in the UAE even up to 2 months.
- Adjustment of the residence permit: Your new employer must be entered in your residence documents.
- No Objection Certificate (NOC): Particularly in Middle Eastern countries (UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar), you will need a written declaration of consent from your previous employer. Without an NOC, you may be subject to a suspension period of up to six months in some countries, during which you are not allowed to work for another company.
Notarization requirements: When changing jobs, all relevant work references and certificates of achievement from Germany are often required again - make sure you have certified translations of all documents. Also check whether you need a work permit - and which additional documents are required for this in your destination country.
8 Current developments: The post-COVID world of work and digital nomad visas
The world of work is changing, here you will find the most important current developments:
The new normal: remote work and hybrid models
Documentary challenges in the home office age:
- Work permit: also legally required for remote work
- Tax residency: Determined by actual place of residence
- Social insurance: Depends on place of work, not company headquarters
Read our guide to remote working to make sure you really have all the requirements.
Conclusion: Your path to a successful job abroad
The path to a job abroad may initially seem like a bureaucratic hurdle race. But with the right preparation and the correct documents, you can concentrate fully on the adventure and the opportunities that lie ahead.
The most important learnings summarized
- Start early: Start preparing your documents at least 6 months before your planned departure
- Do country-specific research: Each country has its own requirements - what is sufficient in one country may be insufficient in another
- Go for quality: You shouldn't skimp on translations and certifications - they are the foundation of your adventure abroad
- Digital and physical: Store all important documents in both paper and digital form
- Use expert help: Specialized service providers such as Beglaubigung24 know the international requirements and can save you a lot of time and stress
Your document investment pays off
The costs for professional translations and certifications may seem high at first, but they are an investment in your international career:
- Time saving: No repeated visits to the authorities due to incorrect documents
- Stress reduction: assurance that your documents meet the requirements
- Career opportunities: Seamless transition to the new job without document-related delays
- Long-term value: Correctly notarized documents can be reused for future applications or when returning to Germany
With this preparation, nothing stands in the way of your successful start to your adventure abroad. The world is open to you - and with the right documents you will conquer it!
