Can I Move to Germany after Completing my Master’s in Italy?

Legally, yes, you can move to Germany after completing your Master’s degree in Italy, but practically, it depends on whether you have the specific skills and job offers that align with German employment needs.

For EU citizens, the process is relatively straightforward since they enjoy mutual rights under the EU's free movement. This means that as an Italian citizen, you can simply cross the border into Germany at any time without needing a specific visa, provided you meet residency requirements.

If you are a non-EU citizen, the process is more complex. Holding an Italian Master’s degree alone does not automatically grant you the right to live and work in Germany. Instead, you would need to apply for a Blue Card if your field is among the highly sought professions in Germany.

Challenges and Expectations

Many Asians erroneously believe that their fellow country members can assist them in securing a job or visa in Germany. However, this is a false expectation. If your major or skill set is not in high demand, securing a job and subsequently a work visa can be challenging and may not be a worthwhile endeavor.

It's crucial to recognize that the Italian employment market may not be suitable for you, which often leads to the problem of looking for a solution beyond Italy. As a non-EU citizen, you will need to find an employer willing to sponsor your work visa. Simply completing a Master’s degree in Italy is not an extra right to immigrate to Germany.

Certain Professions Gain Better Chances

While you can move to Germany at any time if you hold an EU citizenship, some specific professions in Germany bring better chances for securing a job. For example, if your Master’s degree is in a high-demand profession such as engineering, healthcare, or IT, you stand a higher chance of securing a job offer and obtaining a Blue Card.

However, the game is not as simple as just having a Master’s degree. Employers in Germany are more concerned with the practical skills and language abilities. Proficiency in the German language can be a significant advantage, as the ability to communicate and work effectively in a German-speaking environment is highly valued.

Alternative Pathways

Some people choose to study in Germany even if they have completed their bachelor’s degree elsewhere. This approach can provide better job prospects and potentially faster onboarding into the German job market. If you do not have a German degree, you will need to apply for a study visa for Germany.

Non-EU citizens should be aware that their pre-existing residency status does not follow them from one country to another. A student visa in Italy does not extend to Germany, so you will need to apply for a new study visa in Germany.

Conclusion

While moving to Germany after completing a Master’s degree in Italy is entirely possible, especially for EU citizens, the practical steps you need to take vary greatly depending on your citizenship status. For non-EU citizens, securing a job and a work visa in Germany will require additional effort and skills that are in high demand on the German job market.

Remember that the key to successful migration is not just about obtaining a degree, but about having relevant work experience, a strong job offer, and possibly proficiency in the German language. Familiarize yourself with the specific requirements and opportunities in Germany before making any major life decisions.