The motivation letter is a central document in the visa application. It offers the opportunity to present one's own reasons for entering Germany and to explain why one is suitable for professional activity in Germany. Here is explained how a convincing motivation letter is structured and what content should be included.

Introduction and personal qualification

At the beginning of the letter, a formal salutation in official German letter style is recommended. This means: At the top left is one's own address, the address of the embassy underneath, followed by place and date, the subject line, and the formal salutation “Dear Sir or Madam” (in German: “Sehr geehrte Damen und Herren”). Then follow the basic personal information in the introduction:

• Name
• Age
• Place of birth and country of origin
• Professional specialization
• Academic degrees and already acquired academic titles
• Current level of German language skills and passed language exams (e.g. Goethe Certificate B2 or telc German B2)
  

The specific goal of the visa application can also be stated here.

Specific Content based on visa type

Visa for recognition of foreign professional qualifications: Presentation of knowledge about the German recognition procedure is important. It should be made clear which steps have already been initiated, which federal state was chosen as the target region, and whether a recognition decision or confirmation of receipt from the competent recognition authority already exists.
Language course visa: It should be mentioned at which language school a German course will be attended, which language level is intended, and in what time frame the instruction takes place.
Visa for employment: Professional qualification and relevant professional experience should be presented. If an employment contract or job offer already exists, this should be mentioned.
Visa for studies and student applicant visa: Admission to the university, the chosen field of study, and the motivation for studying in Germany should be explained.
Visa for family reunification: The family relationship to the person already living in Germany should be presented, including information on the residence situation of this person.
Opportunity Card: Professional qualification, professional experience, and the motivation to find employment in Germany should be explained. If contacts with potential employers already exist, these can be mentioned.

Professional perspectives in Germany

In the main part of the letter, professional plans for the future in Germany should be presented.
For occupation-related visas (work visa, visa for recognition, Opportunity Card): Based on previous professional experience in the home country, it should be explained in which areas one wishes to work and why these particular fields were chosen. It is advantageous to name concrete fields of activity, e.g., in the healthcare sector or in other specific industries. If contacts with employers, clinics, or other institutions in Germany already exist, these can be mentioned in the letter. If an employer has already shown interest, this should be mentioned – for example through a letter, email, or internship offer.
For study visas: Academic goals, the chosen field of study, and professional perspectives after completion of studies should be presented.
For family reunification: Plans for integration in Germany, such as through language acquisition, professional perspectives, or social participation, can be mentioned.

Justification for Germany as destination country

Since Germany is not the only country open to qualified professionals, the decision for Germany should also be justified. Here, the professional, technical, or personal advantages that Germany offers can be addressed. Possible arguments include the high quality of medical care, good further education opportunities, attractive working conditions, or the reputation of the German healthcare system. It can be briefly explained how the German healthcare system or professional framework conditions differ positively from those of other countries. If specific institutions or regions in Germany are already intended, these can be mentioned here.

Family and financial situation

The letter should also contain information on the family and financial situation. Family situation includes information on marital status (single, married, divorced) as well as family responsibility – for example, whether children will travel along or remain in the home country. Regarding the financial situation, it should be explained how livelihood is secured during the stay in Germany. For a blocked account, the bank at which the account was opened should be named. If instead a declaration of commitment from a person living in Germany exists, the relationship to this person as well as their occupation and workplace should be briefly explained. This information shows the embassy that livelihood is secured during the stay.

Conclusion and formal requirements

The letter should end with a polite thank you to the embassy for processing the visa application. This is followed by a formal farewell, the full name, place and date, as well as the handwritten signature. It is important to note that not only the motivation letter but also the curriculum vitae and the visa application must be personally signed.

Important notes and practical tips

The letter should be written in German if possible – especially when language skills at level B1 or B2 already exist – and ideally should not be longer than one to two pages in DIN A4 format.