Do universities in Germany or France offer post-study work permits, and how long are they valid?

Yes, both Germany and France offer post-study work permits for international graduates.

- Germany: Graduates can apply for an 18-month Job Seeker Visa after completing a degree from a recognized German university. This allows you to stay and work in any job while searching for employment related to your field. Once you secure a qualified job, you can switch to a work residence permit.

- France: International graduates can apply for the "Autorisation Provisoire de Séjour" (APS), a temporary residence permit valid for 12 months (sometimes extended to 24 months under specific agreements). This allows you to work full-time while seeking employment or starting a business, and later transition to a standard work permit.

Work permit durations and conditions are subject to change. For guidance on your specific situation, speak with your LeapScholar counsellor.