If you’re not a citizen of the EU or being transferred to Germany by your company, then the chances of getting a decent job are slim. Despite being the world’s third-largest economy, Germany still has more than 8% unemployment, with the former East Germany almost doubling that quota. In order to get a job, you or your employer will have to prove that no German candidate is qualified for the position. You must apply for a work permit as you apply for a residency permit. The aliens registration office then contacts the labour office and if it approves the work permit, the combination residence and work permit will be stamped in your passport. If not, they can just issue a residency permit with no right to work. There is no separate card or certificate. Work permits are only valid for a specific job and only for the duration of your residency permit.