Settling in Aachen suits skilled workers in engineering and research at the border of three countries. Aachen is home to RWTH Aachen, one of Germany’s leading technical universities. This article analyses the city for skilled migrants.
Settling in Aachen: the engineering and research job market
Aachen has a distinctive job market centred on engineering, research and technology. RWTH Aachen is one of Germany’s most prestigious technical universities, generating a talent pool and jobs in research and spin-off companies.
Skilled workers in mechanical engineering, electrical/electronics, automotive, IT or research have many opportunities. Its location at the border of three countries (Germany-Belgium-Netherlands) creates unique cross-border job opportunities.
Life and cost of living in Aachen
Aachen has an average cost of living and rent for Germany. It is a moderately sized city with a beautiful medieval old town and the Carolus Thermen baths dating back to Roman times. Aachen was once the capital of the Carolingian Empire under Charlemagne.
Its border culture brings international diversity. Many people working in Aachen live in the nearby Netherlands or Belgium. Its moderate size, academic environment and safety suit families.
Vietnamese community and notes
Aachen has a modest Vietnamese community; newcomers can connect with the larger community in nearby Cologne. The international university environment helps newcomers integrate easily, especially students and researchers.
Skilled migration to Aachen still follows the federal system via the FEG, with no city-specific pathway. Choosing a city is choosing where to settle; you should check the current requirements.
You should refer to the Make it in Germany portal and German Federal Employment Agency to check current conditions.
Summary
Aachen is a city at the border of three countries, with jobs in engineering, research and technology (RWTH Aachen – one of Germany’s leading technical universities), automotive and IT. Cost of living is average. Cross-border job opportunities with Belgium and the Netherlands. International academic environment. The Vietnamese community is modest. Residency conditions follow the FEG; you should check current requirements.
