Residence Permit; Application for On-the-Job Training and Continuing Education, and Vocational School Training

You can apply for a residence permit to pursue vocational training in Germany. Entry into the country is generally preceded by applying for the appropriate visa at the relevant German diplomatic or consular mission abroad and then entering the country.

The training may take the form of either on-the-job training or school-based training.

If on-the-job training is planned, the training may be preceded by attendance at a German language course to prepare for the vocational training, in particular a job-related German language course in accordance with the German Language Support Regulation.

A residence permit may also be applied for in the case of school-based vocational training if it leads to a state-recognized vocational qualification.

Further information about vocational training in Germany can be found on the “Make it in Germany” website (see “Related Links”).

The residence permit entitles the holder to engage in employment unrelated to the vocational training program for up to 20 hours per week.

Approval from the Federal Employment Agency is required for in-company vocational training.

For school-based vocational training, the program must, in accordance with federal or state regulations, lead to a state-recognized vocational qualification and must not be primarily aimed at nationals of a single country.

In the case of a qualified vocational training program (at least two years), proof of sufficient German language proficiency (Level B1) is required if the language skills necessary for the specific qualified vocational training program have neither been tested by the educational institution nor are to be acquired through a preparatory German language course. The training company may confirm that the applicant’s existing German language skills can be considered sufficient for the specific training program.

It is not a requirement that the vocational training be a qualified vocational training program (at least two years). It should be noted, however, that in most cases a new residence permit cannot be issued after the vocational training program ends, since only a qualified vocational training program confers the status of a skilled worker. An exception applies to trained nursing assistants (Pflegefachhelfer).

A means of support must be secured for the duration of the stay for vocational training. As a rule, proof must be provided that at least 903 EUR (for the year 2024) is available each month. This can be ensured through the training stipend. If the vocational training is school-based or if there is a shortfall, the required amount can be demonstrated through a part-time job (see above), a blocked account, or by submitting a declaration of commitment (see the link under “Related Topics”).

Many immigration offices already offer an online application process. If an online process is available, it will be displayed on BayernPortal under "Online Processes" once you have specified your place of residence under "Select Location."

If your immigration office does not offer an online application process, please contact the immigration office by email or visit in person.

If you already hold a foreign professional qualification, a so-called recognition procedure can be used to determine whether it is equivalent to German vocational training. If this is the case, completing vocational training may no longer be necessary, and you can apply for a residence permit as a skilled worker. An application for the recognition procedure can be submitted either through a recognition partnership within Germany or from abroad prior to entry. If the recognition procedure determines that the foreign vocational training is only partially equivalent, it is possible to complete compensatory measures within Germany (see the service description “Residence Permit; Gainful Employment in Germany” under “Related Topics”).

Any change in the training company or educational program within Germany must be applied for in a timely manner with the Foreigners' Registration Office.

Processing times may vary. If necessary, please contact the relevant immigration office.

• For in-company vocational training: Declaration of Employment (see "Forms")
• The documents to be submitted can vary widely.
  

  Please check with your local immigration office. However, the following documents are generally required, among others:

  • a valid passport
  • a recent biometric photo (full-face shot)
  • Proof of sufficient financial means
  • Proof of adequate living space
  • Proof of health insurance coverage
  • Proof of the purpose of stay, e.g., employer’s letter or employment contract, marriage certificate
  • Additional documents, if applicable

100 EUR

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