Before the vocational training

If you are interested in pursuing vocational training in Germany, you can first apply for a residence permit for the purpose of language acquisition to allow you to learn the German language. More information to the topic Language aquisition.

You may also obtain a residence permit for the purpose of seeking a training position. You can find more information on this page.

Please bring the following with you…

If you wish to apply for a residence permit for the purpose of seeking training position, please bring the following documents with you (if we do not already have them):

• Your valid passport
• A current passport photo
• A completed application form
• Proof of funding (letter of intent according to Section 68 AufenthG (German Residence Act) or blocked account with a blocked amount of currently € 1091,20 € per month)
• Proof of health insurance
• Certificate of graduation from a German school abroad or a school leaving certificate that entitles you to admission to higher education in Germany or in your home country
• Proof of good German language skills (B2 level)
• Fee: up to € 100.00

Please note: As a rule, the residence permit is issued by the German diplomatic mission abroad in the form of a visa.

Period of validity of the residence permit

A residence permit for the purpose of seeking a training position can be issued for a period of up to six months.

Change in purpose of stay

During the period of residence for the purpose of seeking a training position, changing the purpose of stay is only possible in the following cases:

• In order to engage in employment as a skilled worker with vocational training or skilled worker with academic training
• In order to carry out in-company or school-based training
• In order to obtain a residence permit to which you are legally entitled (e.g. in the case of a residence permit for the purposes of a family reunification)

If you are unable to find a training position during your stay, you must leave Germany again and can apply for a certificate of residential status to resume your search after you have stayed in your home country for six months.

Paid employment

While seeking a training position, you are allowed to pursue paid employment for up to 20 hours per week.

Please note: Work shadowing does not constitute employment and is therefore permitted.