Here’s a comprehensive, updated (2026–2027) guide on how to apply for Ausbildung (vocational training) programs in Germany, tailored for international applicants (especially non-EU/EEA). I’ll walk you through eligibility, finding programs, application process, visa steps, timelines, and key tips so you know exactly what to do at each stage.
🇩🇪 What Is an Ausbildung?
An Ausbildung is a dual vocational training program in Germany combining classroom education with on-the-job training at a company. Most programs last 2–3.5 years and are common in sectors like technical trades, hospitality, healthcare, business, logistics, and IT.
🧑🎓 Step 1 — Check Eligibility
Before applying, make sure you meet key criteria:
Education
- Minimum: Secondary school certificate (10th/12th pass depending on profession).
Language
- German language proficiency is crucial — typically B1 minimum; B2 is an advantage for many fields. Employers and embassies expect solid German.
Age
- Most companies prefer applicants around 18–30 yrs, but some may accept older applicants depending on the profession.
Medical & Legal
- Medical fitness; no serious criminal record or previous visa refusals help the process.
🔍 Step 2 — Find Ausbildung Positions
You must secure a training contract (“Ausbildungsvertrag”) with a German company before you can apply for a visa.
Where to look
- Federal Employment Agency / Jobbörse
- Ausbildung.de, Bundesagentur für Arbeit, Meinestadt.de
- Company career sites (e.g., Deutsche Bahn, Bosch, DHL) — search “Ausbildungsplatz”.
Tips
- Tailor your CV (Lebenslauf) and Motivation Letter (Bewerbungsschreiben) for each application — in German where possible.
- Apply many places (10–20+) to improve chances.
🗓️ Step 3 — Know the Application Timeline
Most Ausbildung programs begin in August/September with recruiter deadlines well in advance:
| Phase | Typical Window |
|---|---|
| Initial research & language prep | Jan–Mar (year before start) |
| Application submission | Sep–Dec (for next August) |
| Interviews & contracts | Oct–Mar |
| Visa preparation | Mar–Jul |
| Start training | August/September |
💡 Some smaller companies accept applications 6–9 months before start, but it’s best to start 9–12+ months early.
📄 Step 4 — Prepare Your Documents
Before applying for jobs and for your visa, gather:
For Company Application
- German-style CV (Lebenslauf)
- Motivation letter (Bewerbungsschreiben)
- Copies of educational certificates (translated & certified)
- Language certificate (B1/B2)
For Visa Application
Once you sign an Ausbildungsvertrag:
✔ Valid passport
✔ Signed training contract
✔ Training plan (“Ausbildungsplan”)
✔ German language certificate
✔ Proof of financial means (blocked account or sponsor)
✔ Health insurance
✔ Pre-approval (if required)
✔ Biometric photos
✔ Visa application form filled out
Note: All foreign certificates usually need certified German translations and sometimes official recognition.
🇩🇪 Step 5 — Apply for the Ausbildung Visa
Only after securing a training contract should you apply for the visa at the German embassy/consulate in your country.
General visa steps
- Complete application form & collect documents.
- Proof of financial Resources (often a blocked account or sponsor letter).
- Book embassy appointment.
- Attend interview and submit originals.
- Wait for processing (usually a few weeks to months).
Important: Visa processing can take time — plan at least 2–3 months before your proposed start.
💶 Financial & Practical Preparations
Financial requirements
- Evidence you can cover living costs if salary doesn’t cover minimum (~€990/month).
- Can be shown via blocked account or a sponsor (“Verpflichtungserklärung”).
Health Insurance
Mandatory before arrival.
Accommodation
Look early, as housing in cities is competitive.
🧠 Tips to Increase Your Success
✅ Learn German early — B1/B2 increases interview chances.
✅ Start applications early — 9–12+ months ahead.
✅ Avoid sketchy agencies — prefer official portals or direct company contacts.
✅ Use professionals for translations and certificate recognition.
✅ Follow embassy checklists exactly — missing docs cause delays.
📌 Quick Summary Checklist
- Check eligibility (education, language, age).
- Improve German (B1/B2).
- Search & apply to Ausbildung positions.
- Prepare CV + motivation letter + certifications.
- Secure training contract.
- Apply for national visa with full documents.
- Plan finances, housing, insurance.
