10.05.2026 | Application, European Visas
How to deploy skilled workers to Germany in a legally compliant manner!
There are clear and attractive regulations in the context of B2B postings from third countries (outside the EU) to Germany – German companies are often reluctant to make use of these opportunities due to a lack of sufficient information or support. The ICT card (Intra-Corporate Transfer) is generally known. Many companies use this option to temporarily transfer managers, specialists and trainees to German branches, for example. Often this is applied for and rejected by the authority because a different category would have to be applied.
But: What is the difference?
Example I: Company A from Wuppertal buys a component for an industrial machine in Shenzhen. In order to install and commission this component in the Wuppertal plant and train the employees on it, a team from the Chinese manufacturer is to travel to Wuppertal and work there. A 12-month stay is planned.
- Posting of companies (general): In this case, this variant would be chosen for a residence and work permit. Granted for up to 2 years, but at least for the duration of the planned assignment.
- In this case, what documents would you need to apply for secondment?
Employer China:
Order of the German company Invitation letter and project description of the German company Excerpt from the commercial register as proof that the foreign company is actively engaged
in Employee China:
PassportEmployment contract with company China at least 6 months employment relationshipProof of education (university diploma, proof of professional training)Posting agreement between employer China and employee China
This variant is the classic posting of employees in a corporate or project context. Additional labour and social security law requirements often apply here (e.g. comparable working conditions, possibly approval by the Federal Employment Agency).
Important information: If there is a social security agreement between Germany and the country of posting, the payment of the salary and social security contributions may remain in the home country, depending on the duration of the posting. (A1 form). In this case, it is important to check whether 183 days of residence are exceeded and whether income tax liability arises in D. (Shadow Payroll). This may have advantages for the employee for later retirement.
Example II: German company establishes a subsidiary in Vietnam and employs local employees on site. In order to train these employees on machines, product lines and processes, entire teams are to be sent to Germany for training measures.
- ICT card: this would be a classic case for an ICT card. A special residence permit for intra-company transfers from third countries. Ideal for longer deployments (> 90 days). Enables simplified entry and work as a manager, specialist or trainee.
- ICT Mobile (Mobile ICT card): For employees who already have an ICT card from another EU country and are now coming to Germany for more than 90 days. Faster and more flexible for EU-wide mobility. Certain requirements and, if applicable, restrictions apply here
Important requirements for the ICT card
- The employee must have been employed by the posting company (outside the EU) for at least 6 months without interruption.
- Assignment in Germany as a manager (manager), specialist (with essential specialist knowledge) or trainee.
- The assignment lasts more than 90 days (max. 3 years for managers/specialists, 1 year for trainees).
- The German company belongs to the same group of companies.
- Remuneration and working conditions meet German standards (no priority check, but a check for appropriateness).
Required evidence
From the employer (posting and receiving company):
- Declaration on the employment relationship + supplementary sheet B (posted workers).
- Valid employment contract for the duration of the posting.
- Assignment letter with details of location, activity, remuneration, duration and guarantee of return.
- Proof of affiliation with the company (group structure).
- In the case of a traineeship, a corresponding training plan must be submitted.
From the employee:
- Valid passport.
- Proof of professional qualification (degree, certificates, curriculum vitae).
- Proof of previous 6 months of employment.
- Proof of health insurance.
Tip: The application is first made via the German diplomatic mission abroad (visa) and after entry it is then exchanged for the ICT card at the Foreigners' Registration Office/BAMF within a certain period of time.
Info: EU-wide mobility, faster processing and clear framework conditions for B2B projects. Perfect for tech, consulting, engineering and corporate structures.
Do you need support with a specific assignment? Write us in the comments or a PM – we will be happy to share more checklists or current practical tips!
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