English-speaking jobs in Berlin

Is Berlin suited for an English-speaking job?

Yes, Berlin is a good place to look for English-speaking jobs. While German is the official language in Germany, Berlin is an international city with a diverse and multicultural population. Many companies in Berlin, especially in sectors such as technology, startups, tourism, and international organizations, have a strong English-speaking work environment.

Berlin has a thriving startup scene and is known as a hub for innovation and entrepreneurship. Many startups in Berlin operate in English, and they often seek international talent to join their teams. Additionally, there are several multinational companies and organizations with offices in Berlin, where English is commonly used for communication.

Furthermore, Berlin attracts a significant number of expatriates, students, and young professionals from around the world. As a result, there are English-speaking communities, networking events, and job fairs specifically catering to the international workforce in the city.

Berlin Facts – More than 3.6 million people live in Berlin and about 1.5 people are working in the city. About 15.5% of those are foreigners, who are not German citizens. While the majority of the Berlin workforce is German, foreigners still have a chance to work and live in Berlin. Nonetheless, before moving, you should make sure, if people with your qualifications are needed in Berlin. 

Who can work in English-speaking jobs in Berlin?

English-speaking jobs in Berlin are typically open to a wide range of individuals, including:

1. Native English speakers
2. Bilingual individuals
3. Expatriates and international professionals
4. Non-native English speakers

It is important to note that specific job requirements may vary depending on the industry, sector, and company. Some positions may require additional language skills or specific qualifications, while others may be open to English-speaking candidates with relevant experience.

Are there English-speaking companies in Berlin?

You can absolutely find companies in Berlin where most people speak English. The city is home to a diverse range of international and multinational companies that operate in English or have a strong English-speaking work environment. Those are mostly Start-ups and international companies. Berlin is an interesting place for both, since there are many Expatriates from all over the world, looking for job opportunities in Berlin. Other options for English speaker are Tourism and Hospitality, the Creative and Media Industries and Education and Language Schools. 

Does Berlin offer entry-level jobs for English speakers?

Yes, Berlin does offer entry-level jobs for English speakers. While some positions may require specialized skills or experience, there are opportunities available for individuals who are just starting their careers or looking for entry-level positions. It’s important to note that competition for entry-level positions can be strong, so it’s advisable to tailor your applications, highlight relevant skills and experiences, and actively network within the industry or field you are interested in. 

As a foreign citizen, what work permit do I need to work in Berlin?

As a foreign citizen, if you wish to work in Berlin, you will generally need a valid work permit or visa that allows you to legally work in Germany. The specific work permit or visa you require depends on your citizenship, qualifications, and the nature of your employment.

Here are some common options:

1. EU Blue Card: If you are a highly skilled professional and have a job offer in Germany that meets certain salary and qualification criteria, you may be eligible for the EU Blue Card. This permit is designed to attract highly qualified workers to the European Union, including Germany.
2. Job Seeker Visa: If you are a non-EU citizen and want to search for employment in Germany, you can apply for a Job Seeker Visa. This visa allows you to stay in Germany for up to six months to look for work. Once you find a job, you can then apply for the relevant work permit.
3. Work Visa: Non-EU citizens who have a job offer from a German employer can apply for a specific work visa. The employer typically initiates the work permit application on your behalf, and you will need to provide supporting documents such as a job contract, qualifications, and proof of sufficient funds.
4. Freelancer Visa: If you plan to work as a self-employed individual or freelancer in Berlin, you can apply for a Freelancer Visa. This visa allows you to legally work on your own projects and provide services to clients while residing in Germany.

It’s important to note that the application process for work permits and visas can vary depending on your individual circumstances and the type of permit you are applying for. It is advisable to consult with the German embassy or consulate in your home country or seek guidance from an immigration lawyer to ensure you have the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding your specific situation.

The EU blue card – In 2021 Germany registered 70,000 people working here with the blue card. About half of those work in jobs with a high demand, the other half is working in a high paid position. About 28% of the blue card owners are from India, followed by China, Turkey and Russia with each about 6%. At the same time, about 28% already studied in Germany before receiving the blue card. 

Are there ways to improve my English skills or learn German to increase my chances in the job market in Berlin?

Improving your English will also increase your chances in getting a job in Berlin. The job market is quite competitive and if you are aiming for a well paid job, besides speaking English very well you should have some other skills to offer as well. If you want to have the best chances of finding a job in Germany, learning German will give you a great advance. Most job positions are offered to people who speak German. Learning German, you will have a much greater range of jobs, you can choose from. 

Are there English-speaking counseling centers or agencies in Berlin that can help with the job search?

Especially in Berlin, there are many English-speakers and foreign citizens who are looking for work. This is why there are also agencies, that specialize in finding jobs for English speakers. Before hiring an agency to find you a job, you should check how successful and reputable they are. You don’t want to spend money and still not get a job in the end. Check with them first, how high the success rate is (if the promises are too high, it might be also a red flag) and what options there are, if they can’t find you a job. Also, make sure you talk to an agency that has contacts fitting for the industry you want to work in. 

5 Steps – How to find an English-speaking job in Berlin

Finding an English-speaking job in Berlin as a foreigner requires some specific strategies and approaches. Here are five steps to help you in your job search:

Step 1 – Research the Job Market: Begin by researching the job market in Berlin to identify industries, sectors, and companies that have a high demand for English-speaking employees. Look for sectors such as technology, startups, international organizations, tourism, or language schools. Learn about the skills and qualifications that are in demand and align your profile accordingly.

Step 2- Polish Your Application Materials: Adapt your resume, cover letter, and any other necessary documents to highlight your relevant skills, experiences, and qualifications. Emphasize your English language proficiency, international experiences, and any cross-cultural competencies. Tailor your application materials to match the specific requirements of the job you’re applying for.

Step 3 – Utilize Online Job Platforms: Utilize online job platforms and websites that cater to the Berlin job market. Platforms like LinkedIn, Xing, Indeed, or Berlin-specific job portals can be valuable resources for finding English-speaking job opportunities. Set up job alerts and regularly search for relevant positions using keywords such as “English-speaking” or “international.”

Step 4 – Network and Engage with Expatriate Communities: Networking is crucial in finding job opportunities as a foreigner. Join online communities, forums, and social media groups focused on expatriate or international professionals in Berlin. Attend networking events, industry meetups, and job fairs to connect with professionals and build relationships. Expatriate communities can often provide valuable insights, job leads, and support.

Step 5 – Consider Language Teaching and Language-Related Jobs: If you are a native English speaker, consider exploring opportunities in language teaching or language-related jobs. Berlin has language schools, international schools, and institutions that often hire English teachers or offer language-related positions. Teaching English as a foreign language can be a viable option for foreigners looking for English-speaking jobs.

It’s important to stay persistent, be proactive in your job search, and continue to improve your language skills and qualifications. Be prepared for potential language requirements outside the workplace, as some positions may require knowledge of the German language. Remember to follow the specific application instructions for each job and stay informed about the visa and work permit requirements for your country of origin.

Are there other cities in Germany, where you can work as an English speaker?

Even though Berlin is the most popular city for expatriates, there are other cities in Germany, that might be a great fit. To find English-speaking jobs, you should focus on other big German cities. You also have a chance to find jobs for English speakers in Hamburg, Frankfurt, Stuttgart and Düsseldorf, for example. So if you don’t have any luck in Berlin, those are great options, that you should consider as well. 

How to learn German – Even though even with speaking only English you will get along quite well in Berlin, you should make the effort to learn some German. A language course is a great way to start, but talking to Germans will be a great way to really apply those skills and get a better feel for the language. You can also watch German shows and movies or turn on the radio to practice your listening skills. 

Conclusion

For most Expatriates in Germany, Berlin is the number one city to go to. As an English speaker, you will have the most work opportunities there. Another advantage is that you find a big community of people sharing your experience of moving to Germany from all over the world. If you want some help, finding an English-speaking job in Berlin Tideri is the right place to start. We search various online job boards and show you all matching results in one list. This way you can shorten the search and focus on getting your dream job. 

FAQ