Ausbildung in Germany

An Ausbildung in Germany is a dual vocational training program that combines practical experience in a company with education at a vocational school. Unlike traditional routes to higher education, Ausbildung is designed for students who want to gain practical skills in a specific trade or profession while earning a monthly salary.

Upon successful completion of the Ausbildung in Germany, trainees receive an officially recognised certificate from institutions such as the IHK (Industrie- und Handelskammer) or HWK (Handwerkskammer), qualifying one to work as a skilled professional in Germany or other EU countries.

• Duration: 2 – 3.5 years
• Salary range: EUR 750 – 1500 
• Outcome: Recognised professional qualification (IHK or HWK certification).

To pursue either school-based or company-based vocational training in Germany, you will be granted a residence permit valid for the duration of your training program. This permit allows you to stay legally in the country while completing your vocational education.

Key benefit: This residence permit also allows you to work a second job for up to 20 hours per week, provided it is not related to your training.

Why Choose Ausbildung in Germany?

There are several benefits to choosing an Ausbildung program while studying in Germany:

• No tuition fees.
  Public vocational schools in Germany do not charge tuition, making this program highly cost-effective.
• Get a monthly stipend during training.
  Trainees receive a monthly allowance from their employer, which helps them cover living expenses while gaining practical experience.
• Internationally recognised qualifications.
  Ausbildung certification is valued across the EU and other countries, boosting global career prospects.
• Stay back option after training.
  After completing your Ausbildung, you can stay in Germany for up to 18 months to search for qualified employment with a job-seeker residence permit.
• Pathway to permanent employment in Germany.
  Many trainees are offered full-time roles by their training companies, creating a direct route into the German workforce.
• High demand across sectors like healthcare, IT, and engineering.
  Germany faces a skilled labour shortage, which increases your chances of long-term employment. 
• Access to preparatory language courses.
  With a residence permit for in-company training, you are allowed to attend vocational German language courses to support your training.

What are the Different Types of Ausbildung in Germany?

There are two different types of Ausbildung in Germany:

1. Duale Ausbildung (Dual Ausbildung in Germany).

Combines practical training at a company with classroom instruction at a vocational school (Berufsschule).

• Structure: 3–4 days of work and 1–2 days of school per week.
• Duration: 2 to 3.5 years.
• Available in 300+ recognised occupations, including engineering, IT, hospitality, mechanics, nursing and other healthcare.
• Includes a formal training contract detailing trainee responsibilities and entitlements.
• Trainees earn at least 682 euros gross per month in the first year. This salary increases with each year of training.
• Involves mid-term and final exams, regulated by the responsible chamber to ensure national standards.

2. School-Based Ausbildung (Schulische Ausbildung).

• Takes place entirely at vocational schools (no company-based training).
• These programs are offered at public and private vocational schools.
• Training at public vocational schools is free of charge, while private schools often require tuition fees.
  Exception: The healthcare sector, where trainees undergo extended practical phases in hospitals or nursing homes and receive compensation throughout the entire training. 
• Common in fields like healthcare, education, social work, and design.
• Programs typically last 2 to 3 years.
• Focuses mainly on theoretical education, often including internships for practical exposure.
• No salary is provided, unlike Dual Ausbildung programs.
• For visa purposes, students must prove financial means via a blocked account or a declaration of commitment.

3. Dual Studies (Duales Studium).

• Combining academic learning at a university with practical training at a company.
• Upon completion, students receive two qualifications:
  • An academic degree from the university
  • A practical certificate or reference from the company

• The structure and schedule vary based on the agreement between the university and the company.
• Compared to traditional university programs, dual studies are less research-oriented and more practice-focused.
• Common in commercial and technical fields such as Economics, Mechanical Engineering, and Computer Science.
• Programs typically last 3 – 5 years, depending on the degree.
• Students receive a monthly salary of €800 – €1,500, which increases with each training year. Many companies also cover tuition fees, especially at private universities.
• For visa purposes, no blocked account is required if an official training contract and salary proof are submitted.

Eligibility Criteria for Ausbildung in Germany

• Proof of Vocational Training.
  – Submit a vocational training contract with full details, including type (in-company or school-based), duration, and salary.
• Visa Application Form.
  – Completed in English or German.
  – Signed and dated by applicant.
  – For minors: Authorisation form plus passport copies of both parents.
  – Submit 2 printed sets.
• Passport.
  – Original passport (valid for at least 1 year, issued within the last 10 years).
  – At least 2 blank visa pages.
  – Valid UAE residence permit.
  – Previous passport (if applicable).
• Passport-Sized Photo.
  – 3 recent biometric photos
  – Not older than 6 months, plain light background, clear face
• Proof of Qualification.
  – High School Certificate
• Language Proficiency Certificate.
  – Proof of German language (at least B1 level)
  – Confirmation of preparatory language course
  – Confirmation of school/employer that language skills have been checked and are sufficient.
• Proof of Financial Means (Cost of Living Coverage).
  – Evidence of at least €959 per month (as of 2025) to cover living expenses.
  – For school-based vocational training: Submit a blocked bank account or a declaration of commitment.
  – For company-based vocational training: A training salary of at least €990 gross/month (2025 rate) is sufficient. If the salary is below this amount, the difference must be covered through a blocked account or a declaration of commitment.
• Motivation Letter.
  – Clearly stating reasons for choosing Ausbildung
• Curriculum Vitae(CV).
• Medical Insurance Coverage.

Popular Ausbildung Courses in Germany

Ausbildung in Germany courses are available in a wide range of fields, including:

• Nursing and Healthcare.
• Transport and Logistics.
• Electronic and Metal Industry. 
• Construction Industry and finishing trade.
• Hotel, Hospitality and the Gastronomy Industry. 
• Trading.
• Marketing and Sales.
• Foodstuffs Industry.
• Business and Administration.
• Computer Science and IT.
• Graphic Design and Media.
• Engineering and Technology.
• Retail and Logistics.
• Sports and Fitness.

How to Apply for Ausbildung in Germany from Dubai?

Applying for an Ausbildung in Germany from Dubai involves a multi-step process that requires planning and documentation. Here’s how you can begin:

1. Choose your Ausbildung field based on your interests and background.
2. Improve your German language skills to at least a B1 level, although some programs may require a B2 level of German proficiency.
3. Gather all your academic documents, including school-leaving certificates, transcripts, and your passport.
4. Prepare a German-format CV (Lebenslauf) and cover letter tailored to the role.
5. Search for open Ausbildung positions on job portals or company websites.
   Apply directly to companies offering training contracts.
6. Attend interviews (often online) if you are shortlisted.
7. Once selected, sign the Ausbildung contract with the employer.
8. Apply for an Ausbildung visa at the German Embassy in Abu Dhabi or the Consulate in Dubai, submitting all required documents, including your contract, language certificate, and proof of accommodation.

Ausbildung Visa Processing Time for UAE Applicants

The processing time for an Ausbildung in Germany visa for applicants residing in the UAE can vary depending on several factors, including the completeness of your application, the specific German consulate handling your case, and the time of year. On average, the processing period ranges from 6 to 12 weeks from the date of your visa interview or submission of a complete application. It is highly recommended that applicants begin the process well in advance, ideally 3 to 4 months before the intended start of their vocational training program in Germany.

To avoid delays, ensure that all required documents are complete and correctly formatted, including your vocational training contract, proof of language proficiency, financial proof, CV, motivation letter, and valid passport. Submitting any missing or incorrect documents can lead to prolonged processing times or even rejection.

Pro tip: Regularly check the official websites for current appointment availability and updated checklists.

Conclusion:

Need expert guidance with your Ausbildung application and visa?
CanApprove is here to help. As trusted study abroad consultants, our team offers personalised support—from finding the right training program and preparing your documents to scheduling visa appointments and ensuring compliance with all German requirements.

Start your journey to Germany with confidence! Contact CanApprove today!