The Blue Card is a successful permit to attract the best professional talent, which offers significant advantages for their integration into German life. We tell you here what this permit is about, the criteria for obtaining it according to the two different types of the card, which are the most significant advantages, and how we at Starcon can help to ensure that you can make the most of this option without complications.

Applicants with a university degree, a job offer related to their field of qualification, and a salary of 58,400 euros per year (as of 2023) are eligible for the Blue Card. There is also a Blue Card with looser eligibility requirements if the field of employment is one of those in which Germany has a shortage of personnel, e.g. IT specialists, engineers, mathematicians, natural scientists, physicians, etc. In that case, you may qualify for a blue card with an annual salary of 45,552 euros. 

The Blue Card has advantages for the person who holds it and their family. Perhaps the most important advantage of this type of residence permit is that it allows the holder to apply for a settlement permit in Germany (Niederlassungerlaubnis) after 33 months of working here. In addition, the spouse can obtain their family reunification permit much simpler. Thanks to these advantages, it becomes possible for Blue Card holders and their employers to plan for a long-term future in Germany. In fact, in a recent report by the Federal Statistical Office (Destatis) 83% of Blue Card holders are still living in Germany after 5 years! 

Thanks to our more than 15 years of experience at Startcon we will gladly help you or your employees to apply for the Blue Card. If necessary, we also support with the application for degree recognition to the Central Office for Foreign Education (ZAB) and follow up with authorities on the status of your application. If you need help with house finding, we are also happy to support you in any way. With our extensive knowledge of the process and relevant stakeholders, we ensure that the process goes as smoothly and quickly as possible.

All the information in this article is sourced from here and here.

This information does not include legal advice or legally binding information. If questions remain or arise, please contact the responsible authority directly or consult a legal expert in this field. Thank you for your understanding!

As you’re moving yourself through the process of relocating to Germany, you might have come across the word Niederlassungserlaubnis. In this blog post, we answer all your questions revolving around “What is the Niederlassungserlaubnis?”.

Niederlassungserlaubnis is a settlement permit for an unlimited period of time, which gives the holder unrestricted access to the labor market. For employers, it can be an advantage to support this one-time procedure. We will tell you about the requirements for acquiring this residence permit, what, in our experience, are the most common obstacles that applicants encounter, and how Startcon can help you or your company to get the Niederlassung seamlessly.

As a skilled worker, you may be eligible for the settlement permit if you meet certain requirements. In general, the most important requirements are related to being in possession of a relevant residence permit, having made social security contributions (either yourself, or your spouse) for the time determined by law, and having sufficient knowledge of the German language. Blue Card holders and skilled workers with a German university degree have privileged access to the permanent residence permit. 

The procedure for obtaining a permanent residence permit can be difficult to navigate. The process requires contact with different institutions, such as the German pension fund and the Immigration Office and is highly bureaucratic. It may take several months before securing an appointment with the Immigration Office. When it comes to the appointment, you may be faced with other challenges which might be easier to overcome if you are accompanied by someone with the experience to prepare you before and accompany you in this meeting.

In our Startcon team, we have a lot of experience in supporting our clients to obtain the Niederlassungerlaubnis and how to deal with the difficulties that can arise along the way. In the words of our team of advisors “Thanks to a sustained but balanced follow-up with the immigration authorities I achieved in my cases acceptable timelines” says Hena Vega, “Being the bridge between the applicant and the immigration authorities helps to avoid misunderstandings and to manage expectations” says Tais Acosta and Semira Afewerki assures that “identifying possible errors in the certificates in time avoided getting an invalid application”.

Startcon is happy to support you or your employees with the application for the settlement permit. We will guide you through the process of acquiring the documents and submitting your application on your behalf with the Immigration Office, follow up for you, and accompany you on the day of the interview. We know that obtaining the Niederlassungerlaubnis is an important step in integrating in Germany, and we take it with the same seriousness as well as flat finding and health insurance.

Here you find the source of this information.

This information does not include legal advice or legally binding information. If questions remain or arise, please contact the responsible authority directly or consult a legal expert in this field. Thank you for your understanding!

Finding an apartment in Germany is tough. Moving to a new city and especially country can be both thrilling and daunting, especially when it comes to finding the right place to call home. In Germany, in general, individuals face the choice between temporary and permanent residences. Each option caters to specific needs and presents its own set of advantages. Let’s explore the key differences between temporary and permanent housing in Germany. Whether your companies international employees are moving to Germany and your HR team struggles with the flat search, or you’re an individual looking for help, in this article you find our top tips on navigating the German housing scene!

Temporary Apartments: A Smooth Start

Temporary apartments offer a convenient and hassle-free solution for individuals looking for short-term accommodation in Germany. These furnished apartments are designed to be a temporary home for around six months, making them ideal for newcomers who need time to settle in and explore the city before committing to a long-term lease.

One of the major benefits of temporary apartments is the ease of securing a place to live even before arriving in Germany. The process is straightforward, requiring only a passport, contract of employment, and sometimes a bank statement for booking. This eliminates the need for potential tenants to be physically present to sign the contract, facilitating a smooth start after arriving in Germany.

For those seeking to apply for a residence permit, an approximate six-month rental period of a temporary apartment works in their favor. Having an officially registered address in Germany is crucial for all subsequent bureaucratic steps, such as obtaining a TaxID, opening a bank account, and acquiring insurance. Temporary apartments offer a convenient solution to meet these requirements while allowing newcomers to focus on other aspects of settling in.

Permanent Apartments: Stability and Personal Engagement

For individuals planning to establish roots and commit to a more extended stay in Germany, permanent apartments become an attractive option. Unlike temporary housing, permanent apartments are usually unfurnished and intended for a period of at least one year, with the end of the rental period typically left open.

Applying for a permanent apartment involves a more comprehensive process, requiring essential documents such as a certificate of no rent debts from the previous landlord, the Schufa (credit score report), employment contract, and salary statements for the last three months. The process (with our assistance) takes around two months, and personal presence during viewings as a future tenant is essential, making it necessary to be already present in Germany (and even better, in the chosen city) to start the search.

Conclusion to finding an apartment in Germany

Choosing between temporary and permanent housing in Germany depends on individual needs and circumstances. Temporary apartments offer flexibility and convenience for newcomers, while permanent residences provide stability and the opportunity to establish deeper roots in the selected city. Whichever path is chosen, Germany’s diverse housing options cater to a diverse range of residents, welcoming all who wish to experience the country’s rich culture and dynamic lifestyle.

Whether your companies international employees are moving to Germany and your HR team struggles with the flat search, or you’re an individual looking for advice: In any chase, we are happy to help. Just reach out to info@startcon.berlin and we are happy to help 🙂

Attracting international talent has become crucial for the growth and success of Germany’s economy. However, navigating the complexities of immigration laws and regulations can be daunting. Luckily, the German government offers a more easeful approach to the whole aspect of relocation. In this article, you will find everything you need to know about the new Skilled Immigration Act (Fachkräfteeinwanderungsgesetz) and its implications for German companies. As the Federal Minister of Labor, Heil, states in an interview: “The new law shows that Germany not only accepts qualified immigration, but also actively works towards it.” This is an amazing opportunity for companies to simplify the relocation process of their international talents to Germany.

This new law is meant to simplify the relocation process for international talents across several industries. But why did the German government introduce new changes to the law? The implementation of the new Fachkräfteeinwanderungsgesetz (Skilled Immigration Act) in Germany is driven by several key factors. This act was put in place to address the growing demand for highly skilled professionals and to make it easier for German companies and other organizations to attract international talent.

Firstly, the Skilled Immigration Act aims to tackle a serious skill shortages in various sectors of the German economy. Germany, like many other countries, faces a scarcity of skilled professionals, especially in the health care industry. By opening up opportunities for qualified individuals from outside the European Union, this act helps bridge the skills gap in industries such as technology, engineering, and research.

Secondly, the act promotes economic growth by attracting international talent. Skilled professionals bring diverse skills, perspectives, and experiences to the job market, fostering innovation and entrepreneurship. Startups, in particular, benefit from the act as they can access a global talent pool, enabling them to drive their growth and competitiveness.

Another motivation behind the Fachkräfteeinwanderungsgesetz is to enhance international cooperation. By attracting skilled professionals from around the world, Germany can foster collaboration, knowledge exchange, and partnerships with other countries. This promotes international cooperation and contributes to a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem.

The act also aims to address demographic challenges. With an aging population and a declining workforce, Germany needs to ensure a sustainable labor force. By facilitating the recruitment of skilled professionals from outside the European Union, the Skilled Immigration Act helps mitigate the demographic challenges and supports the country’s economic development.

Finally, the act emphasizes the importance of integration and diversity. It recognizes the value that individuals from different cultural backgrounds bring to society and the economy. By embracing diversity, startups and other organizations can benefit from the creativity, innovation, and global perspectives that international talent offers.

In summary, the implementation of the Fachkräfteeinwanderungsgesetz  in Germany is driven by the need to address skill shortages, promote economic growth, enhance international cooperation, tackle demographic challenges, and foster integration and diversity. Startcon, as a relocation agency, plays a vital role in supporting startups in navigating this act and facilitating the smooth relocation of international talent, ensuring that they can fully leverage the opportunities presented by the Skilled Immigration Act. But let’s first have a closer look at what measures were actually taken with the new Fachkräfteeinwanderungsgesetz:

1. Qualification

Candidates applying with a degree can now take up any qualified employment. The degree does not need to match the position anymore.

2. Work Experience

With at least 2 years of relevant work experience and a professional training recognized in the country it was issued in, candidates can already apply for a work visa. The professional training does not need to be recognized in Germany any more – at least for the unregulated professions.

3. Changes for the job seeker visa

Germany is going to introduce a point system to select qualified candidates for the job seeker visa. Criteria are among others: Qualification, German- and English skills, work experience, accompanying family members, etc.

The Skilled Immigration Act presents exciting opportunities for companies in Berlin to attract international talent. By understanding the key changes, startups and other companies can navigate the immigration landscape with confidence. Startcon’s expertise and support are invaluable in simplifying the relocation process and ensuring compliance with the new law.

Relocating international talent is a complex process, especially with evolving immigration laws. We are working together with a lawyer to ensure the best possible service. In the area of visa & immigration, we work together with Sven Hasse, a lawyer specialized in migration law. We understand the nuances of the Skilled Immigration Act and its implications for startups. Our international team of experts is equipped to handle the intricacies of immigration paperwork, coordinate with local authorities, and provide personalized assistance tailored to your startup’s needs. With Startcon by your side, you can focus on growing your business while we take care of the relocation process, ensuring a seamless and efficient experience for both you and your international hires.

Interested? We are just a message away. Please contact us at info@startcon.berlin and we are happy to connect 🙂

This information does not include legal advice or legally binding information. If questions remain or arise, please contact the responsible authority directly or consult a legal expert in this field. Thank you for your understanding!

Sources of information:

https://www.bmi.bund.de/SharedDocs/kurzmeldungen/DE/2023/06/fachkraefteeinwanderungsgesetz-bt.html

https://www.bundesregierung.de/breg-de/themen/arbeit-und-soziales/fachkraefteeinwanderungsgesetz-2182168

In today’s competitive business landscape, startups are increasingly recognizing the value of sourcing international talents to drive innovation and fuel their growth. Hiring employees from different countries brings diverse perspectives, skills, and experiences to the table, fostering creativity, adaptability, and a global mindset. As moving to Germany is a big commitment, international employees do worry about the health coverage in their new home. Your responsibility as a company towards them holds clear communication about different options. To attract and retain top international talents, startups in Germany must consider various factors, including the health insurance options available to their employees.

Public Health Insurance:

Public health insurance offers several advantages for employees in German startups. Firstly, it is generally more affordable as contributions are income-based, making it a suitable option for employees with lower incomes. Additionally, public health insurance provides comprehensive coverage for medical treatments, medications, hospital stays, and preventive care, ensuring that employees have access to necessary healthcare services. Public health insurance is also accessible to all residents in Germany, regardless of pre-existing conditions or age. Furthermore, it often extends coverage to family members, providing comprehensive healthcare for the entire family. Approximately 90 percent of Germans have public health insurance.

However, public health insurance does have some limitations. It offers less flexibility for customization or additional coverage beyond the standard benefits. Employees may also experience longer waiting times for non-emergency procedures, depending on the region and specific treatment. Additionally, public health insurance might not cover all healthcare providers or include specialized treatments. Those need to be paid by your employee.

Public health insurance contributions are income-based, making it a more affordable option for both the startup and its employees. The lower cost can help startups manage their budget while still providing essential healthcare coverage to their employees.

Also, public health insurance typically offers comprehensive coverage for a wide range of medical services, including doctor visits, hospital stays, prescription medications, and preventive care. This ensures that employees have access to necessary healthcare services without incurring substantial out-of-pocket expenses.

A big plus is the fact that public health insurance is not only available for all German citizens, but also for expats working in Germany. It ensures that everyone has access to healthcare coverage regardless of pre-existing conditions, age, or nationality. This inclusivity promotes a sense of fairness and equality within the startup’s workforce.

The extended coverage of that system provides health care to family members, including spouses and children. This means that employees can ensure the health and well-being of their entire family, providing peace of mind and work-life balance.

Public health insurance is administered by various statutory health insurance funds in Germany. As an employer, startups can simplify the administrative process by partnering with use and benefit from our expertise in managing health insurance matters.

By offering public health insurance, startups can provide their employees with affordable, comprehensive, and accessible healthcare coverage. This contributes to employee satisfaction, promotes a positive work environment, and aligns with the values of fairness and inclusivity.

Private Health Insurance:

Private health insurance provides certain advantages that may be appealing to some international employees with particular needs for special care not covered by the public system. It offers greater flexibility and customization options, allowing employees to tailor coverage to their individual needs. Private health insurance also generally provides shorter waiting times for appointments and non-emergency procedures. Access to a wider network of doctors, hospitals, and healthcare providers is another advantage offered by private health insurance. Please note that if your employees earn more than 66.600 EUR / year (2023) they may also opt out of public health insurance and choose private health insurance instead.

On the other hand, private health insurance comes with its own drawbacks. It can be more expensive compared to public options, with premiums based on factors such as age, health status, and desired coverage. Private health insurance may also have exclusions or limitations on coverage, particularly for pre-existing conditions or certain treatments. Navigating private health insurance plans can be more complex due to varying coverage levels, deductibles, and co-payments.

With its greater flexibility compared to public health insurance, private options offer a much wider range for customization. Startups can choose from a variety of coverage options that suit the specific needs and preferences of their employees. This includes access to additional services, specialized treatments, and alternative medicine.

A big plus for any company is the potential reduction of downtime and improving productivity due to a much faster accessibility with less waiting times for non-emergency occurrences. This does not only save time, but also allows your employees to integrate their healthcare into their working schedule a lot easier.

Private health insurance typically grants access to an extensive network of doctors, hospitals, and healthcare providers. This gives employees more options and the ability to choose the healthcare professionals and facilities that best meet their needs and preferences.

The additional services and amenities not covered by public insurance might also be attractive to international employees being used to other healing modalities that might not be covered by the public system in Germany. These may include private hospital rooms, alternative therapies like Ayurveda or certain movement practices, dental care, and vision coverage. Such perks can contribute to satisfaction and well-being, which can lead to a more convenient and personalized healthcare experience for employees.

Private health insurance plans can offer international coverage, which is especially beneficial for startups with employees who frequently travel or work abroad. This ensures that employees have access to healthcare services, no matter where they are, and you as a company are able to keep them save and healthy at all times.

Last but not least, offering private health insurance as part of the compensation and benefits package can make a startup more competitive in attracting and retaining top talent. It demonstrates a commitment to employee well-being, helps your startup to attract and retain top talent, and provide a comprehensive healthcare solution tailored to individual needs.

When considering health insurance options for international talents in German startups, both public and private options have their advantages and disadvantages. Public health insurance offers affordability, comprehensive coverage, and accessibility, while private health insurance provides greater flexibility, shorter waiting times, and access to specialized care. Startups should carefully evaluate their employees’ needs, preferences, and budget constraints to determine the most suitable option that aligns with their overall compensation and benefits package.

Ultimately, a well-designed health insurance plan plays a crucial role in attracting and retaining international talents, promoting employee well-being, and contributing to the overall success of a relocation process. We usually recommend to providers, the TK (Techniker Krankenkasse) and the BKK VBU. They are also one of the few with an English-speaking service.

We support your HR team and your employees with the application and the general communication with the health insurance provider in German. We closely work together with your company to provide the best possible service as a seamless communication with transparent communication.

Our team of relocation experts is happy to provide you with more details about our recommended healthcare providers. Please contact us at info@startcon.berlin for more information.

This information does not include legal advice or legally binding information. If questions remain or arise, please contact the responsible authority directly or consult a legal expert in this  field. Thank you for your understanding!

The relocation to Germany for work can be a transformative experience, offering numerous benefits and opportunities for personal and professional growth. Germany is known for its strong economy, diverse industries, excellent work-life balance, and high living standards. This makes it an attractive destination for professionals from around the world seeking new challenges and career advancement. When startups aim to relocate their international employees to Germany, they can leverage the country’s strengths and create a favorable work environment that attracts top talent, fosters innovation, and drives business growth. It also provides employees with valuable opportunities for professional development, cross-cultural experiences, and a high quality of life.

Overall, relocating international employees to Germany offers a win-win situation for both employers and employees alike. However, to ensure a successful transition, it is essential to be well-prepared. In this article, we will explore our three crucial tips for your relocation to Germany. Coming from 10+ years of relocation experience, we from Startcon offer you our concentrated knowledge of countless successfully completed relocation processes and our comprehensive services to support your move.

Learn the basics with a language course before your relocation to Germany

When moving to Germany, one of the most important steps you can take to facilitate your integration is to learn the basics of the German language. While many Germans speak English, having a solid foundation in German will greatly enhance your work and social interactions. It shows your commitment to embracing the local culture and will open doors to new opportunities. Even though the German government makes a huge effort to be more inclusive regarding non-German speakers, many official documents, forms, and websites in Germany are in German, and understanding the language allows individuals to comprehend and navigate these resources independently. It also opens doors to educational opportunities, cultural events, and community activities, which are often conducted in German.

When you choose to enroll in a language program, make sure you receive personalized attention, interactive lessons, and cultural insights that will accelerate your language learning journey. Also, pay attention to flexible course options and convenient locations to make it easier to fit language learning into your schedule. Investing in a language course will not only equip you with essential language skills, but also boost your confidence and integration into German society. Startcon offers a comprehensive program designed specifically for expatriates acting as a certified Telc-language center. Our experienced instructors and structured curriculum focus on practical language skills required in everyday life, work environments, and social settings.

Get familiar with the German mentality

Understanding the German mentality and cultural norms is crucial for a successful relocation to Germany. All societies have implicit rules of conduct that are often difficult for outsiders to understand at first, leading to misunderstandings. As in any other cultures, Germans do learn to adapt them into their daily lives from an early age, for example punctuality and precision. Familiarizing yourself with these cultural traits will help you navigate daily life and build positive relationships with colleagues and locals. Embracing the German work ethic, which emphasizes efficiency, thoroughness, and professionalism, will contribute to your success in the workplace. To get familiar with the German mentality, immerse yourself in the local culture by participating in social activities, attending community events, and networking with Germans. Germany has a rich history and cultural heritage that has shaped its collective mindset.

Take the time to study German history, including key events, influential figures, and societal developments. This knowledge will provide context and help you understand the historical factors that have influenced the German mentality. Additionally, explore German literature, art, music, and film, as they often reflect cultural values and perspectives. Remember that familiarity with the German mentality is a continuous learning process, and it takes time to fully grasp the cultural nuances. Embracing an open-minded and respectful approach, combined with active engagement with locals and cultural resources, will contribute to your understanding and integration into the German society.

Startcon can assist you in connecting with local communities and providing insights into German customs and traditions. Our cultural orientation programs offer valuable guidance and help you adapt to the German way of life. By respecting and adapting to the German mentality, you will not only integrate smoothly, but also thrive in your new work environment.

Understand the health system

Germany boasts a renowned healthcare system that provides comprehensive coverage and high-quality medical services. Before your relocation to Germany, it is essential to understand how the health system works and familiarize yourself with the insurance requirements. In Germany, health insurance is mandatory for residents, including expatriates. There are two main types of health insurance: public (gesetzliche Krankenversicherung) and private (private Krankenversicherung). Public health insurance is available to employees with an income below a certain threshold, while private health insurance is an option for those with higher incomes or self-employed individuals.

It is important to carefully research the available options, compare costs, coverage, and benefits, and choose the one that best suits your needs. Also make sure you communicate your wants and needs in regards to health insurance for you and your family with your employer. Besides your agreement with the company you’re working with, we can guide you through the health insurance selection process, helping you with communication through the whole time in case any complications arise. We can also assist you in navigating the administrative procedures required to obtain health insurance, ensuring that you are adequately covered and have access to quality healthcare services upon your arrival. Also, stay tuned for our next article, where we will be dissecting the pros and cons of the different healthcare options in Germany for employers and employees.

Relocation to Germany – what’s next?

The relocation to Germany for work presents exciting opportunities for personal and professional growth. By following these three crucial tips, you will be well-prepared for your relocation journey. Start by enrolling in a language course to acquire the necessary language skills and boost your integration into German society. Familiarize yourself with the German mentality, cultural norms, and work ethic to thrive in your new environment. Understanding the German healthcare system, along with the mandatory health insurance requirements, is crucial for your well-being and peace of mind. 

Our team of relocation experts is ready to provide you with comprehensive relocation services tailored to your specific needs. Interested? We are just a message away. Please contact us at info@startcon.berlin and we are  happy to connect 🙂

This information does not include legal advice or legally binding information. If questions remain or arise, please contact the responsible authority directly or consult a legal expert in this field. Thank you for your understanding!

In today’s interconnected world, startups are constantly seeking new ways to gain a competitive edge and propel their growth. One powerful strategy gaining traction is hiring international professionals from abroad, sourcing from a worldwide pool of talented individuals waiting to contribute with their unique knowledge. The advantages of hiring international professionals are often covered by concerns regarding complicated recruitment and visa processes. Although those processes can be quite overwhelming, an experienced relocation agency like Startcon can help your HR team to navigate through the process. With more than 10 years of experience, we help you turning relocation into an easy task. In this article, we will explore the numerous advantages that startups can harness by tapping into a bigger pool of talents like embracing demographic diversity, enjoying job profile flexibility, and fostering a rich cross-cultural work environment.

1. Access to a Bigger Pool of Talents

Innovation thrives when diverse perspectives converge. By hiring international professionals, startups gain access to a significantly larger talent pool, going beyond familiar environments expanding towards new perceptions and opinions. These individuals bring unique experiences, skill sets, and perspectives that can infuse fresh ideas into the organization. And that’s what startups are about, right? A fresh and new approach to old problems. Startups can find professionals with specialized expertise or rare skill sets that may be scarce locally. By broadening the search globally, they increase the chances of finding the perfect fit for their specific needs. This expanded talent pool presents endless possibilities and fuels the startup’s ability to tackle complex challenges head-on with fresh input. 

2. Higher Productivity within the Team due to Demographic Differences

Diversity in the workplace fosters innovation and enhances productivity. Hiring international professionals brings demographic differences that can lead to a dynamic and thriving work environment coming from a cultural exchange that triggers curiosity to open up conversations, eventually building a much better dynamic within the team. Professionals from diverse cultural backgrounds often bring fresh perspectives, alternative problem-solving approaches, and a broader understanding of customer needs in different markets. Startups can leverage this diversity to adapt their strategies and products to a global audience, ultimately increasing their competitiveness and market reach. Startcon’s expertise in global talent sourcing ensures startups can build teams that truly thrives on the power of demographic differences, driving productivity and fostering creativity.

3. Flexibility within Job Profiles

Startups thrive on agility and adaptability. Hiring international professionals brings flexibility within job profiles, allowing startups to optimize their teams based on specific project requirements or evolving business needs. Startups can tap into a global talent pool with professionals who possess a wide range of skills and experiences. This enables them to create dynamic teams that can seamlessly transition between tasks, roles, and responsibilities, ensuring maximum efficiency and adaptability. Our comprehensive relocation services can support your startup in navigating the legal and administrative aspects of hiring international professionals, enabling them to focus on their core business objectives.

4. Rich Cross-Cultural Work Environment

A rich cross-cultural work environment is a breeding ground for creativity, collaboration, and innovation. By hiring international professionals, startups can create a diverse workplace that encourages the exchange of ideas, perspectives, and knowledge. This cultural mosaic brings a plethora of benefits, such as improved communication and problem-solving skills, enhanced creativity, and a broader global outlook. It also fosters a sense of inclusivity and acceptance within the organization, attracting top talent and promoting employee retention. With Startcon’s expertise, startups can seamlessly integrate international professionals into their work culture. This ensures a harmonious and productive environment across multiple cultures and continents. 

Leveraging the Advantages of Hiring International Professionals

Startcon offers comprehensive relocation services tailored to the unique needs of businesses seeking to recruit international talents. We help startups to harness the advantages of hiring international professionals. We support you and your international employees before, during and after their arrival in Germany. Likes this, we help you to embark on an extraordinary journey towards innovation and global competitiveness. 

Interested to tap into the advantages l of hiring international professionals? We are just a message away. Please contact us at info@startcon.berlin and we are happy to connect 🙂

This information does not include legal advice or legally binding information. If questions remain or arise, please contact the responsible authority directly or consult a legal expert in this field. Thank you for your understanding!

Relocating to a new country is an exciting but often complex endeavor, likewise for companies that want to relocate their international talents to Germany as for individuals who take a chance to build a new life abroad. The challenges of navigating the communication with authorities, understanding visa requirements, and settling into a new life can be overwhelming. Startcon helps you and your international employees to make the transition to the new country seamless and stress-free. In this article, we introduce you to the 5 business values that determine our company mindset and helped Startcon to become what we are today. Let us explore the special attributes that set us apart from other companies.

1. Women-led Company: At Startcon, we pride ourselves on being a women-led company. Our female leaders bring a unique perspective and a meticulous attention to detail. In an industry traditionally dominated by men, our women leaders have broken barriers, demonstrating exceptional expertise and a passion for helping individuals and families embark on successful relocation journeys.
2. Organic Growth: What sets Startcon apart from many other relocation companies is our commitment to organic growth. We have never sought support from banks or investors, relying solely on our own resources and the trust of our clients. This independence allows us to maintain complete control over our operations, decision-making processes, and most importantly, our dedication to serving your needs. Our growth has been fueled by the satisfaction and referrals of our clients, a testament to the quality of our services and the trust we have earned. With our service comes personalized attention, innovative solutions, and a relentless commitment to your successful relocation.
3. Multi-cultural team: Startcon thrives on the strength of our diverse team. We are proud to have a multicultural and inclusive workforce, consisting of individuals from various nationalities and backgrounds. Our team represents a tapestry of cultures, including Colombia, Russia, Brazil, Ukraine, India, Poland, Kirghistan, and Germany. This diversity enables us to understand and cater to the unique needs of our clients, fostering cultural sensitivity and creating an inclusive environment. With Startcon, you can be confident that your relocation journey will be supported by a team that embraces diversity, fosters understanding, and celebrates the richness of different perspectives. We all provide our services from a space of personal relocation experience, meaning that we handle you and your international employees with compassion and understanding based on our personal story.
4. Gütesiegel “Fair Recruitment“: Startcon holds the esteemed Gütesiegel “Fair Recruitment” certification, which reflects our unwavering commitment to ethical employment and recruitment practices. We firmly believe in fairness, transparency, and equal opportunities for all. This certification is a testament to our dedication to upholding high standards of integrity and professionalism. At Startcon, we treat our employees and clients with respect, ensuring that our interactions are conducted in a fair and ethical manner. We value fairness, transparency, and the highest ethical standards as a part of our business values.
5. Sustainability and People-centered: We are not only committed to your successful relocation but also to the well-being of our planet. We recognize the importance of sustainability and strive to minimize our ecological footprint. From digital platforms to reduce paper waste to energy-efficient practices in our operations, we take conscious steps to promote environmental sustainability. Furthermore, our people-centered approach is the foundation of everything we do. We understand that relocating to a new country involves not only paperwork and logistics but also emotional challenges. Our dedicated team of experts provides compassionate support, guiding you through every step of the process. You can expect a warm and welcoming experience, backed by professionalism, attention to detail, and a genuine commitment to your well-being.

Our team of relocation experts is ready to provide you with comprehensive visa relocation services tailored to your specific needs based on our business values. Interested? We are just a message away. Please contact us at info@startcon.berlin and we are happy to connect 🙂

This information does not include legal advice or legally binding information. If questions remain or arise, please contact the responsible authority directly or consult a legal expert in this field. Thank you for your understanding!

As a leading relocation agency that specializes in bringing foreign employees to Germany for startups, we understand the unique challenges and complexities of the visa and immigration process. The relocation of international professionals to Germany can be challenging, eating away time and resources. Our goal is to provide seamless and comprehensive support to ensure a smooth and successful relocation for both the new hire and the HR team. Here is a detailed step-by-step process of our relocation support services:

Step-by-step process

1. Introduce New Hire to Startcon: As part of your onboarding process, you’ll introduce your new hire to us. We provide a warm welcome and explain the relocation process, including the role of the personal visa specialist who will be assigned to support the new hire and guide the HR team throughout the process.
2. Assignment of Personal Visa Specialist: Startcon assigns a dedicated personal visa specialist (VS) to the new hire and the HR team. The VS serves as the main point of contact and provides expert guidance and support at every step of the visa and immigration process. The VS also works in tandem with your HR team to ensure a coordinated approach. After a first call, your new hire and their VS first get to meet each other and get the chance to discuss first questions and the following steps.
3. Document Collection: The VS reaches out to the new hire and requests the first set of documents, which typically include the CV, passport, work contract, and university degree (if applicable). These documents are essential for initiating the visa application process and determining the most appropriate visa option for the new hire.
4. Visa Options Discussion: Based on the information provided by official government websites, we evaluate visa possibilities together with the candidate. The VS engages in a detailed discussion with the new hire to understand their qualifications and background. Based on this information, the VS discusses various visa options, such as the Blue Card, which is applicable for highly skilled professionals, or the IT Specialist visa, which may be suitable for those without a university degree. If the new hire’s degree is obtained from a foreign country, the VS also advises if it needs to be evaluated by the Central Office for Foreign Education (ZAB) for recognition in Germany.
5. Visa Application Planning: Once the appropriate visa option is identified, the VS plans the visa application route and shares an estimated timeline with the new hire and the HR team. This includes outlining the required documents, processing times, and potential challenges. The VS keeps the HR team informed about all the steps during the process and updates them in case of any unforeseen events or changes in the timeline.
6. Relocation Software: Our relocation process is supported by our state-of-the-art relocation software, “RelocationOnline.” This comprehensive platform provides a chat function for seamless communication, a secure document exchange function for efficient document management, and other features that streamline the visa and immigration process. Also, it helps you monitor the whole process of relocation of international professionals to Germany within your company.
7. Ongoing Support: Throughout the visa and immigration process, the VS provides continuous support to the new hire and the HR team. This includes addressing any questions or concerns, communicating with the authorities on their behalf, and ensuring that all requirements are met in a timely and efficient manner.
8. Visa Issuance and Entry: Once the visa is issued and the new hire arrives in Germany, they can start working. This milestone marks the successful completion of the initial phase of the relocation process.
9. Address registration: After arrival to Germany, we support with the next crucial step in the relocation process: booking an appointment for address registration (“Anmeldung”) and accompanying our candidates to their first appointment in Germany. We take care to support with this as early as possible, so the candidate will receive their tax ID in time and can open a bank account to receive their first salary.
10. Application with the local Immigration Office: After we guided your employee and your HR department through all the steps, we submit the new hire’s complete application for their final residence permit (Blue Card, skilled worker permit) with the local immigration Office and secure an appointment. We accompany in person to the appointment to facilitate communication with the caseworker and make sure all goes smoothly.

Finally, the residence permit is ordered, and your relocation of international professionals to Germany is complete! Our dedication and expertise come from 10 years of professional relocation experience and from personal histories of moving countries and building new lives abroad. We draw from a rich cross-cultural experience and combine this with detailed knowledge of the German immigration system. We offer support Germany-wide. From inception to completion, our team of experts will demystify the intricacies of the process, saving you valuable time and resources.

Interested? We are just a message away. Please contact us at info@startcon.berlin and we are happy to connect 🙂

Our consultation does not include legal advice or legally binding information. If questions remain or arise, please contact the responsible authority directly or consult a legal expert in this field. Thank you for your understanding!