Germany's Federal Employment Agency has published the official list of countries whose citizens are eligible for seasonal work within its borders. The regulations, which are tied directly to nationality, currently permit only four categories of foreign nationals to take up temporary employment under this framework.
The announcement, published on 20 September 2026, clarifies that citizens from countries outside the listed group are not currently permitted to carry out seasonal work under this arrangement. The federal government has stated that seasonal workers are "an important source of support for many businesses and organisations in Germany," and the regulations include provisions that legally protect them against financial disadvantages.
Who Qualifies for Seasonal Work in Germany
Citizens from four categories of countries currently qualify for seasonal work in Germany:
- Georgia
- Republic of Moldova
- Member states of the European Union
- EFTA states (Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland)
The guidance from the federal government emphasises that workers should familiarise themselves with their rights before entering the country. The Federal Employment Agency advises prospective seasonal workers to review their rights and conditions well in advance of any planned travel to Germany, noting that the legal framework is designed to provide clarity for both workers and the businesses that rely on seasonal labour.
What the Rules Mean for African Workers
For African nationals, the current framework closes off a direct route to seasonal employment in Germany. With the exception of EU membership, which no African country holds, none of the qualifying categories cover any African nation. Countries such as Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, and South Africa do not appear on the eligibility list, meaning their citizens are not covered by this particular seasonal work arrangement.
The Federal Employment Agency has published this list as part of Germany's labour regulations, which set out specific conditions for seasonal workers, including legal protections against financial disadvantages. The agency has also encouraged workers to review their rights and conditions before travelling to Germany.
Related German Immigration Updates
In a similar story, Legit.ng previously reported that Germany explained how foreigners can become professional drivers with a driving licence from another country. Additionally, Germany announced the 20 countries whose citizens must obtain an airport transit visa before travelling through Germany. That list includes Nigeria, Ghana, Ethiopia and several other countries whose nationals cannot use Germany's usual transit privilege.
Only five German airports have an International Transit Area where eligible travellers can stop over without entering the Schengen area. Even then, limited operating hours and terminal changes could leave passengers needing another visa if they fail to plan ahead.
