Vocational Training

If you do not already have any vocational qualifications, one route for you into the world of work could be traditional vocational training. The German vocational training system is internationally renowned and offers both elements of theory and a strong practical element. It is also described as a dual system of training. You do not only learn in a vocational training school but part of the time you are in the workplace.

Vocational training occupations that are particularly in demand include, for example, occupations in healthcare and nursing and in certain technical professions such as mechanical engineering or electronics.

As a general rule: Holding a good vocational qualification improves your prospects in the employment market and for a well-paid job!

Whether or not you can join a vocational training course may also depend on your residence status.

If you are from an EU country, you have the right to undertake a vocational training course in Germany. You do not require any permit from any authority.
Generally, as a non-EU national you will certainly require a residence permit.
Before you can commence a training course, you must be able to produce a vocational training contract. You enter into this contract with the training institution at which you will complete your training course. Finally, the training course must be approved by the Federal Employment Agency.

If you are interested in a vocational training course, ask the careers advisory centres of employment agencies about options for training.

Information for Refugees in the Asylum Process

In Germany there is currently demand for professionals in many occupations. The Federal Government therefore has an interest in training refugees who are likely to be granted permanent resident status for the employment market and allowing them to enter a vocational training course. The entry requirements for this have even been eased. If you would like to start a vocational training course and have not yet been granted a residence permit, you can usually apply to do so to the immigration authority.

This is subject to the following:

You need to find a workplace or school to sign a training contract with you.
You must have a residence permit. This is the responsibility of your local immigration authority. The Federal Employment Agency must give its approval for your vocational training course.

The Dual System of Vocational Training in Germany

The short explanatory film clearly and simply explains the dual system of vocational training in Germany.

Stark im Beruf [Strong at Work] – Mothers with Immigrant Backgrounds

The Stark im Beruf [Strong at Work] - Mothers with Immigrant Backgrounds programme aims to improve the prospects of female immigrants for successful integration into the employment market. As part of the project, participants are supported with vocational guidance. They work together to identify opportunities and to find a vocational training course, continued training or an internship. Participants can also address issues relating to Careers and Family during the project.

The project is funded by the Bundesministerium für Familie, Senioren, Frauen und Jugend [German Federal Ministry for Family Affairs, Senior Citizens, Women and Youth] (BMFSFJ) and the European Social Fund (ESF).