Engaging in vocational training in Germany can open up many opportunities and is an excellent path to prepare for the job market in the country.
There are two main ways: pursuing school-based training or choosing company-based vocational training programs.
Visa requirements for vocational training
To qualify for a visa for vocational training, you must meet certain criteria:
- Specific training location in Germany: Provide confirmation of securing a vocational training place in Germany, either through an in-company training program or a school-based program.
- Language proficiency: Demonstrate proficiency in the required language for qualified vocational training, usually German at least at level B1 within the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). This is necessary unless your language skills have been tested by the training institution or unless you have completed a preparatory German course.
- Financial capability: Showing your ability to cover living expenses throughout your stay. You usually have to provide evidence of having an amount of up to €903 per month (by 2024). You can prove this by opening a reserved bank account or providing a commitment declaration.
Opportunities offered by the vocational training visa
- When registering for a school-based or company-based vocational training program, you will receive a residence permit for the duration of your training, which usually lasts for at least two years.
- With this permit, you can work in an additional job for up to 20 hours per week, provided it does not conflict with your vocational training.
- Upon successful completion of the training, you can stay in Germany for up to 12 months to search for a qualified job, with the help of a specific residence permit.
Visa to search for a place for vocational training
To be eligible for a visa to search for a place for vocational training, you must meet the following conditions:
- School leaving certificate: Holding a school leaving certificate that gives you access to higher education or a qualification from a German school abroad.
- Language proficiency: Demonstrate proficiency in the German language at level B1 within CEFR.
- Maximum age limit: Be under the age of 35.
- Financial capability: Prove your ability to cover living expenses during your stay by opening a bank account reserved for a minimum of €1,027 monthly (by 2024) or by providing a commitment declaration.
With your acquisition of a visa or residence permit for the purpose of seeking a place for vocational training, you can enter Germany and stay for up to nine months to apply for vocational training. During this period, you are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week and have the opportunity to complete up to two weeks of trial work.