Citizens of third countries typically cannot work in, for example, Germany unless they qualify as skilled professionals under the Residence Act (Aufenthaltsgesetz). However, an important exception exists — the Vander Elst visa, named after a ruling by the European Court of Justice.

The Vander Elst visa allows companies registered in EU/EEA countries (including Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Norway) to temporarily assign their third-country national employees to Germany for specific services.
Key requirement: The employee must have legal status and a work permit in the employer’s country of registration. No additional German work permit is needed.

Who is it for?
The Vander Elst visa covers both skilled and unskilled labor, particularly in:

• Construction
• Logistics
• Hospitality
• Cleaning and facility maintenance
• Warehousing and production

How it works:
Example: A Latvian company hires Uzbek nationals with Latvian residence/work permits. The company then signs a service contract with a German client and assigns the employees to Germany for a limited period.

While assignments are temporary, no strict deadlines are imposed. Per EU Court practice, long-term assignments (even over 1 year) are possible.

Advantages:

• Fully compliant EU employment
• Suitable for unskilled labor
• Flexible assignment durations
• Minimal bureaucracy for German companies

Depending on the country: 2–12 weeks (includes selection, testing, and documentation).

Our certified partners and in-house trainers prepare employees for your company’s needs.

2–6 weeks

We officially pay all taxes, contributions, and comply with the employer’s country regulations.

Yes, under the Vander Elst visa (e.g., for construction, logistics, or hospitality).

A formal contract outlining responsibilities, timelines, service scope, and replacement terms if needed.