Why a Pre-Offer Work Visit in Germany is Unusual and the Safest Way to Proceed

Recently, a job seeker received a request from a German employer to visit Germany for a week before the offer is officially confirmed. This raises a pertinent question: is this a normal process? In this article, we will explore why such a pre-offer work visit is highly unusual and discuss steps to ensure the safety and legality of the job seeker.

Understanding the Legal Implications

Firstly, it’s crucial to understand the legal implications of the situation. Working on a Schengen Tourist Visa is illegal, and if caught, you can face serious legal troubles. The employer is likely asking you to apply for a Visit Visa rather than a work visa. This seems like a workaround to allow you to enter the country for work-related activities.

Upon arrival at the German airport, immigration officers will ask about your purpose of visit. If you claim to be working, you will be sent back. Therefore, it is advisable to be honest and clear about your intentions.

Why a Pre-Offer Work Visit is Unusual

Comparing your situation to others, most reputable German companies do not require candidates to visit Germany before an offer is confirmed. A common practice is for the employer to arrange for a virtual interview, eliminating the need for travel.

One example is the experience of a former job seeker who was invited by a German employer for a second round of interviews. The company offered to reimburse all expenses, provided he presented all receipts. Since obtaining a Schengen visa was impractical, he decided to proceed with a virtual interview instead. This highlights that a pre-offer work visit for a week before an official offer is quite rare and should raise red flags.

Legal Considerations and Recommendations

Before proceeding with any visit to Germany for work-related activities, consider the following points:

Company Reputation: Is the employer a well-known multinational corporation or a local German company with a solid reputation? Visa Requirements: How will you travel to Germany? Will you need to apply for a work visa or a tourist visa? Expense Burden: Who will bear the cost of your travel, accommodation, and other expenses related to the visit? Financial Commitment: If you decline the offer after the week-long visit, will you be required to repay the expenses involved?

If the employer is a reputable and well-known company that agrees to bear all expenses and does not require a formal offer before the visit, you might find it acceptable. However, it is not advisable to proceed without these assurances.

Steps for Overseas Job Seekers

For job seekers already employed in India, here are some steps to consider:

Invitation for Visa and Airfare: Ask the German employer to arrange for a work visa and airfare for the to-and-fro travel. The entire expenditure should be borne by the employer. Accommodation: Ensure that the employer will arrange for your accommodation in a hotel or company guest house during your stay in Germany. Remuneration: Find out how much the employer will pay for the work you will do during the one-week visit. Post-Visit Plans: If selected, clarify the remuneration and other associated benefits you will receive after the visit.

Conclusion

It is important to proceed with caution and ensure that all legal and practical considerations are properly addressed before agreeing to a pre-offer work visit in Germany. Seeking advice from trusted individuals in Germany can also provide increased security and support.

Good luck on your job search!