Apprenticeship in Germany: Open for non-EU! All you need to know here! (2024)

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Apprenticeship in Germany: Applicants from all countries worldwide can apply for apprenticeships (in German: ‘Berufsausbildung’, ‘Ausbildung’). Apprentices in Germany receive a monthly payment and have high chances for a permanent work in Germany. German language skills are mandatory.

You will learn in this article:

Most important facts about Ausbildung in Germany

What does Ausbildung in Germany mean?

‘Ausbildung’ is the German term for apprenticeship, a form of a vocational training program. With an ‘Ausbildung’ (full title: ‘Berufsausbildung’) you get a state-controlled degree as a skilled worker providing huge perspectives for living and working in Germany even if you are a citizen of a non-EU-country.

What is Ausbildung in Germany?

Apprenticeships (also called “vocational training”) is a formal educational qualification in the area of blue collar professions like sales person, painter, carpenter, nurse, butcher, or car mechanic. After a 3-year training in Germany a degree of a skilled worker is issued. This provides good chances for foreigners from all over the world to get a permanent work position in Germany.

The system of vocational training (in German: “Berufsausbildungen”) in Germany is unique: Within a paid multi-year education program students learn a profession during their apprenticeship according to German standards as well in vocational schools as the companies which employ the trainees.

Can foreigners do an Ausbildung in Germany?

Yes, foreigners from all countries are eligible to apply for an Ausbildung (apprenticeship) in Germany. German language requirements are at level B1.

Who can do Ausbildung in Germany?

Any foreigner regardless of the age, speaking German on level B1 at least and having finished 9 or 10 years school education. To start an Ausbildung you must get selected by a German company. However there is statistically only one applicant per position.

Does Ausbildung guarantee a job in Germany?

With a vocational training in Germany, foreign applicants receive a German qualification as a skilled worker. There is a high demand for skilled workers in Germany which most probably will prevail for many upcoming years. Although there is no ‘guarantee’ for a job the chances are tremendously high – most important in the company that was your host during your apprenticeship.

Having successfully finished an apprenticeship, skilled workers can continue to work in the German company, obtain further qualifications (e.g. master craftsman, Bachelor professional or Master professional or even can start a study at university), become self-employed or return to their home country to work here with the foreign qualification. With this foreign qualification and existing support of the German government foreigners can set up companies in their home countries with massive advantages.

How does Ausbildung work in Germany?

Almost all skilled blue collar professions in Germany can only be practiced if the workers have previously successfully completed a vocational training: for example, bricklayers, bakers, merchants, nurses or electricians. In most countries of the world, there is no comparable qualification to the German vocational training system. The PTU offered in Russia, Ukraine or Belarus, for example, has neither the corresponding contents nor the length and quality of the German training.

Important to understand is that the students in the vocational training are employees of a company where they work approximately 50% of their time in order to learn. During the other 50% they receive a training in a vocational school. The company pays all schooling fees for the apprentices. Hence candidates must be employed by a company – only then they can start the training. This is why also international candidates need to apply first and succeed in a selection process.

Which foreigners can start an Apprenticeship Germany?

Foreigners from all countries in the world can start a vocational training in Germany. It does not matter from which country you come and if you already have a visa for Germany. We consult foreigners on the existing professions and respective trainings, we help foreign applicants to find a suitable position for a vocational training in Germany, to choose a suitable company and explain how to apply for visas. Our cooperation partners in the German economy can be found in Saxony, Thuringia, Hesse, North Rhine-Westphalia, Brandenburg and Berlin, for example in the cities of Dresden, Chemnitz, Werdau, Leipzig, Erfurt, Suhl, Ilmenau, Schmalkalden, Meiningen, Frankfurt am Main and Essen.

Foreigners have very good career opportunities in Germany on the basis of current legislation: After vocational training, it is possible for foreigners to stay in Germany in order to work in this profession.

Apprenticeship in Germany: Open for non-EU! All you need to know here! (1)

Vocational training for foreigners in Germany at a glance:

Our placement is free of charge for applicants and there are also no fees for your apprenticeship in Germany! The training starts in August/September of each year. Your application must reach us however as soon as possible! This time is required to find a suitable employer and to give you time for visa application (visa application might take up to 4 months!)

Further information: Apprenticeship in Germany

How much do I earn in an apprenticeship program in Germany?

During your training you will receive a monthly payment from your employer to cover your basic living costs in Germany. The monthly remuneration ranges from approximately €600 gross in the first training year to at least €900 gross or more in the third training year. For some apprenticeship positions German employers pay even more than €1,200 per month.

The amount of the monthly allowance depends to a large extent on your employer and your curriculum vitae. Employers often offer additional support such as free tickets or financial support for your accommodation. Life-in-Germany.de or your employer will inform you about the specific conditions during the application process since they are individual for each single position. After the apprenticeship you may be enrolled as a skilled worker in Germany to similar conditions as German workers.

How long is an apprenticeship in Germany?

An apprenticeship in Germany lasts between 3 and 4 years, depending on the profession. If you already have qualifications in the profession it might be shorter. You will learn your profession to 50% within the company by practical work and to 50% in a special vocational school. Lessons will be held in German only – therefore you need German skills onlevel B1 of the GER. During the training in Germany, you will be employed by a German company with a German contract providing the same rights and obligations as for German nationals.

Can my family join me during my apprenticeship in Germany?

Life-in-Germany.de offers apprenticeships in cooperation with German companies and educational institutions / vocational schools. We find the right apprenticeship for trainees from abroad throughout Germany and at the desired location. Also we accompany you through the application process. In case you have kids or a spouse we will do our best to make an apprenticeship possible together with your family. In this regard we will try tofind a job or a place for apprenticeshipfor your partner.

Further information: Apprenticeship in Germany

Which degree do I acquire with an apprenticeship in Germany?

As a rule, a certificate as ‘skilled worker’ is awarded as degree. This degree offers excellent career opportunities in Germany and worldwide. The skilled worker qualification enables you to apply for a permanent residence permit in Germany, provided that some other requirements are met.

Which is the maximum age for an apprenticeship in Germany?

There is no age limit. In some professions – e.g. nursing care – applicants over 40 years of age are not rare. However, you should note that as a foreigner you will learn at the vocational school together with German students who are usually between 16 and 25 years old.

Which German language skills do I need for an apprenticeship in Germany?

You must speak German at least at level B1 at the beginning of the training. However you can apply already when you have a A2 command of German. For nursing care training you will need B2 level of German.

Which language certificates do I need for an apprenticeship in Germany?

There is no requirement for a certificate by a selected institution. Applicants can apply with certificates from all institutions – including local language schools abroad or teachers from abroad. However you might need to proof your command of German in interviews and during visa application.

Apprenticeship in Germany: With which foreign school leaving certificate can I apply for a vocational training in Germany?

A foreign school-leaving certificate of 9th grade or higher (usually a middle-school) is sufficient to start an apprenticeship in Germany. For technical professions, you should have good grades in mathematics as well as computer skills.

Apprenticeship in Germany: Get official degrees

Vocational training in Germany is subject to state control and offers education at the highest level. The German vocational qualifications are leading in the world!

Apprenticeship in Germany: Living in affordable regions

If you start vocational training in Germany as a foreigner, you often have to cope with the training allowance “apprenticeship pay”. Despite all the thrift, this money is very, very tight. However, there are ways in which you can still cope with it:

  • As a rule, the training places we arrange are not located in large cities with high living costs – but in economically well developed areas beyond the very large cities in Germany. Often not far from the big cities there is a very good infrastructure – big cities can often be reached by train in 30 minutes to 2 hours.
  • As a trainee you can work up to 10 hours a week and earn extra money: We talk to your employer to give you this opportunity!
  • Many employers also help their trainees with benefits such as housing subsidies or subsidies for monthly tickets for bus and train – Life-in-Germany.de always puts in a good word for you with your employer!

Apprenticeship in Germany: How to apply?

  • How do I apply for an apprenticeship in Germany? You may use the service of specialized agencies like Life-in-Germany.de or may apply directly at German companies. However we recommend to use our free services since they include consultation regarding your application documents. Apply as soon as possible , even if you do not yet speak German at B1 level or if you have not yet completed your school education. The earlier you apply, the better your chances of finding a suitable training place in Germany!
  • How to get a visa for an apprenticeship in Germany? If you are a non-EU applicant you need a visa before you can start your apprenticeship. Read all the detailson our special page here!
  • What happens after an apprenticeship in Germany? Having successfully finished your apprenticeship there are high chances of a permanent employment in Germany after the training. German companies are interested in permanent employment for most applicants and will generally make you a very good job offer.

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Apprenticeship in Germany: Open for non-EU! All you need to know here! (12)

Apprenticeship in Germany: Open for non-EU! All you need to know here! (2024)

FAQs

Can foreigners do apprenticeship in Germany? ›

You can also recruit trainees from non-EU countries and offer them career prospects in Germany. If they come from outside the EU, they need a residence permit to start vocational training in Germany.

How do I get an apprenticeship program in Germany? ›

Apprenticeship Germany Visa: A visa for foreign vocational school students
  1. Find a position. Find a vocational training position in Germany by searching on Arbeitsagentur.de, Make-it-in-Germany.com or other sites.
  2. Apply. Apply for one or more vocational training positions in Germany.
  3. Interview. ...
  4. Get documents. ...
  5. Apply for visa.
26 Jun 2022

What is the minimum entry requirements for an apprenticeship? ›

To apply for an intermediate apprenticeship, you'll just need to be over 16 years old and no longer in full-time education. For an advanced apprenticeship, you're likely to be asked for prior work experience and at least three A*-C or 9-4 grade GCSEs or equivalent - such as an intermediate apprenticeship qualification.

Are apprenticeships open to international students? ›

Are international students eligible to take up a degree apprenticeship? Yes, international students are eligible in certain countries. As long as you have a valid permit or visa, and follow all legal rules, you may apply for a degree apprenticeship.

Are apprenticeships paid in Germany? ›

Apprentices in Germany receive a monthly payment and have high chances for a permanent work in Germany. German language skills are mandatory.

Is there age limit for apprenticeship in Germany? ›

There is no maximum age for an apprenticeship. As a German or a foreigner, you can apply for vocational training at practically any age. Traditionally, it is still common in Germany for apprentices to be of a younger age: most are between 15 and 25 years old.

How long is apprenticeship in Germany? ›

In Germany an apprenticeship is between 2 and 3 years. The concrete length depends from your chosen profession, your skills, your language skills, and the fact how quickly you can pass the exams.

What is the age limit for Ausbildung? ›

Age Limit: Up to 30 Years.

Is there any Ausbildung in English in Germany? ›

Ausbildung in Germany for foreigners is a vocational training program in Germany and is known as an Apprenticeship in the English language.

Who is eligible for apprenticeships? ›

To qualify for an apprenticeship, you must meet the following criteria: be aged 16+ at the time of enrolment. be a UK or European Economic Area (EEA), or have lived in the UK or EEA for the past three consecutive years. not already be in full-time education at the point of enrolment.

What documents do I need for an apprenticeship? ›

Once you find the right apprenticeship, you'll need a CV and a cover letter to apply. If you need help, find out how to write a CV. It's a good idea to apply for a few apprenticeships at a time. This increases your chances and means you're not waiting for a response from one employer.

Is it hard to get an apprenticeship? ›

You are unlikely to get the first Apprenticeship you apply for and sometimes it might take many applications for you to be matched with the right company. Try to keep motivated and be relentless in your pursuit for your new career.

Can I do an apprenticeship in Germany? ›

In Germany, school leavers have the option of taking up a vocational apprenticeship instead of choosing full-time academic education.

Can you get an apprenticeship without qualifications? ›

In a nutshell, yes you can! There are a number of apprenticeship schemes out there that you can apply for even if you don't have any qualifications. So if you're wondered and thinking, “I failed my GCSEs”, don't worry – a fantastic career could still be available to you. There are different levels of apprenticeships.

How long is an apprenticeship? ›

Apprenticeships take 1 to 5 years to complete depending on their level.

How much do apprentices get paid in Germany? ›

Trainees should receive a minimum training allowance of 515 euros per month in their first year of training from 2020 onwards. In the following years, the training allowance should increase further – 2021 to 550 euros, one year later to 585 euros and from 2023 to 620 euros.

What apprenticeships are available in Germany? ›

Economy and administration apprenticeships in Germany
  • Automotive salesman.
  • Banker.
  • Bookseller.
  • Druggist.
  • Real estate agent.
  • Investment fund clerk.
  • Dialogue marketing clerk.
  • E-commerce clerk.
3 Aug 2022

Can foreigners do Ausbildung in Germany? ›

Yes, foreigners from all countries are eligible to apply for an Ausbildung (apprenticeship) in Germany. German language requirements are at level B1 minimum. Please test here online for free if you fulfill all criteria.

Is B1 German enough for Ausbildung? ›

A glance at requirements for vocational training (Ausbildung): Sufficient knowledge of the German language (at least level B1) A school leaving certificate which is equivalent to the German (at least 9 school years)

How many types of Ausbildung are there in Germany? ›

How many types of Ausbildung are there? There are usually two types of Ausbildung in Germany. Dual (duale) Ausbildung is professional technical training or vocational training. A dual education system combines apprenticeships in a company and vocational education at a vocational school in one course.

How do I register for Ausbildung? ›

Apply to an Ausbildung-Program after fulfilling the following criteria: - Having B1 German level, (Or at least visiting B1 course). - Translated and Legitimated your school certificate at the German embassy in your Home country. - Having recognition from the certification authority in Germany.

Can foreigners do Ausbildung in Germany? ›

Yes, foreigners from all countries are eligible to apply for an Ausbildung (apprenticeship) in Germany. German language requirements are at level B1 minimum. Please test here online for free if you fulfill all criteria.

Is apprenticeship considered as work experience in Germany? ›

An apprenticeship program is a combination of theoretical and practical training for aspiring workers in an industry. Apprenticeship in Germany is also called vocational training, whereas apprenticeship is considered different from vocational training in many other countries like India.

What apprenticeships are available in Germany? ›

Economy and administration apprenticeships in Germany
  • Automotive salesman.
  • Banker.
  • Bookseller.
  • Druggist.
  • Real estate agent.
  • Investment fund clerk.
  • Dialogue marketing clerk.
  • E-commerce clerk.
3 Aug 2022

How long is apprenticeship in Germany? ›

In Germany an apprenticeship is between 2 and 3 years. The concrete length depends from your chosen profession, your skills, your language skills, and the fact how quickly you can pass the exams.

Is B1 German enough for Ausbildung? ›

A glance at requirements for vocational training (Ausbildung): Sufficient knowledge of the German language (at least level B1) A school leaving certificate which is equivalent to the German (at least 9 school years)

Is there any Ausbildung in English in Germany? ›

Ausbildung in Germany for foreigners is a vocational training program in Germany and is known as an Apprenticeship in the English language.

Does apprenticeship guarantee a job? ›

Apprentices are trained during their apprenticeship program to immediately get into the role of employees as they are formally trained on the job and certified for a particular industry. Internships could be unpaid, while apprenticeships are paid and often lead to a permanent job.

Is university better than apprenticeship? ›

However, it's important to remember that the training and skills you gain as an apprentice are focused on one role or specific industry. Whereas, a university degree can lend itself to a broader range of careers by teaching you more general skills.

What is the difference between apprenticeship and work experience? ›

Apprenticeships are qualifications, internships are work experience. An apprentice will receive training from an apprenticeship provider, college or university and work towards a nationally recognised qualification at an appropriate level.

Is doing an apprenticeship worth it? ›

Apprenticeship training programmes are specifically tailored to ensure you develop the skills employers want. This means that apprentices not only have better long-term salary prospects, but they also have excellent progression opportunities, whether looking to study further or climb the ranks within the workplace.

How do I register for Ausbildung? ›

Apply to an Ausbildung-Program after fulfilling the following criteria: - Having B1 German level, (Or at least visiting B1 course). - Translated and Legitimated your school certificate at the German embassy in your Home country. - Having recognition from the certification authority in Germany.

Is vocational training in Germany free? ›

Dual vocational training in Germany (in German: 'Duale Ausbildung') is free of charge for all participants. You do not need to pay any fee to the employing company or an agency. On the contrary: In Germany you get paid fairly well during your Ausbildung compared to international standards.

How many types of Ausbildung are there in Germany? ›

How many types of Ausbildung are there? There are usually two types of Ausbildung in Germany. Dual (duale) Ausbildung is professional technical training or vocational training. A dual education system combines apprenticeships in a company and vocational education at a vocational school in one course.

Why is apprenticeship highly valued in Germany? ›

The emphasis on vocational education combined with academic studies and on-the-job training for apprentices is globally admired. The fact that Germans are accustomed to the work-study model masks some of the challenges other countries might face in adopting it, such as doubts about the value of vocational training.

What is German apprenticeship model? ›

German apprenticeships start with a contract.

Therefore, the starting point of an apprenticeship program is the training contract between the apprentice and the employer. It is similar to a work contract and serves as the legal basis for the in-company training in the Dual VET system.

Who teaches an apprentice? ›

Duties of the Master

He is bound to instruct the apprentice by teaching him, bona fide, the knowledge of the art of which he has undertaken to teach him the elements.

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