Updated: June 22, 2026 · Documents
Erklärung zum Beschäftigungsverhältnis: the work visa document people often forget
For most types of German work visas and residence permits, an employment contract alone isn't enough.
Alongside the contract, the employer must complete the Erklärung zum Beschäftigungsverhältnis (EzB) — the declaration on the employment relationship.
What the form covers
- job title and description of duties;
- salary;
- working hours;
- place of work;
- other details needed to process the application, including by the Federal Employment Agency (Bundesagentur für Arbeit).
Current version
The current version of the form is dated February 2024: EzB 02/2024. Download it from the Bundesagentur für Arbeit website:
Download the Erklärung zum Beschäftigungsverhältnis (PDF) →
What to watch out for
- The employer should use the current version of the form, not an old saved copy.
- The details in the EzB must match the employment contract and the visa application: job title, salary, working hours, place of work.
- Mistakes and inconsistencies in this document are a common cause of follow-up requests and delays.
So when preparing documents for a work visa or residence permit, check not only the contract but also the Erklärung zum Beschäftigungsverhältnis. Other required documents are covered in EU Blue Card in Germany and on the Work & IT visas page.
We check your documents before you apply
In our visa package we review the employment contract and the Erklärung zum Beschäftigungsverhältnis, complete the visa application and put together the full embassy package. Start with a consultation: the €90 fee is credited towards the package.
FAQ
What is the Erklärung zum Beschäftigungsverhältnis?
It is the declaration on the employment relationship, which the employer completes alongside the employment contract. For most types of German work visas and residence permits the contract alone isn't enough.
What details go into the form?
The job title and description of duties, the salary, the working hours and the place of work. It also covers other details needed to process the application, including by the Federal Employment Agency (Bundesagentur für Arbeit).
Which version of the form is current?
The current version is dated February 2024: EzB 02/2024. The employer should use that version rather than an old saved copy, and can download it from the Bundesagentur für Arbeit website.
Why does the EzB cause delays?
Mistakes and inconsistencies in this document are a common cause of follow-up requests and delays. The details in the EzB must match the employment contract and the visa application: job title, salary, working hours and place of work.