Where national law allows experience instead of — or alongside — a degree
Where higher education is not the sole basis of eligibility, some member states admit applicants with relevant professional experience at a level comparable to a qualifying degree. The directive framework contemplates multi-year experience alternatives; national rules set the exact duration, sector, and approval steps.
Example pattern (Germany IT specialists without a degree): often at least three years of IT experience within the last seven years, at graduate level, plus the reduced salary threshold and Federal Employment Agency involvement — confirm current national instructions before relying on this path.
Common Refusal Themes
Pro Tips
Employment reference letters, contracts, payslips, tax/social-security extracts, and professional licenses where relevant.