Quick Fact!
Germany left 69 000 paid apprenticeship seats unfilled in 2024—companies are eager to sign up anyone who can prove B1 German skills.
1. What Is an Ausbildung?
An Ausbildung is Germany’s paid dual‑training program: you earn while you learn, that means you work and study at the same time.
3‑4 days a week on the job: You learn by doing. A senior worker shows you each task and you try it yourself. Every few months, you get more duties — and a little more pay.
1‑2 days in trade school: Teachers cover the basics you need for work — simple maths, safety rules, customer service. You do small projects and short tests to prove you understand.
Official German certificate: After about 3 years you take a final test. Pass it and you get a government‑approved diploma that lets you work anywhere in Germany and the EU as a skilled worker.
Imagine:
Training as a chef in a Black Forest hotel.
Fixing robots at BMW as a mechatronics technician.
Assisting patients in a Berlin clinic as a nursing assistant.
New to German?
Most applicants begin their language journey at A1—start now and build momentum for your future application.
2. Why Germany Needs You
69 000 paid seats are still open : That’s how many apprenticeships went unfilled at the end of the 2023–24 recruiting season.
Skill shortages everywhere : Mechanics, chefs, hotel staff, electricians, IT technicians, carers, you name it, companies are short‑staffed and willing to train newcomers who speak German
Ageing workforce : 1 in 4 skilled workers will retire within 10 years. Firms must look abroad for young talent to keep factories, hotels and clinics running.
Achieve B1 German and employers quickly show interest in you.
Visit our homepage for all German courses in one place.
3. How B1 German Unlocks the Door
Why should you consider Germany for your nursing career? There are a few big reasons:
B1 = visa and contract : The Ausbildung visa checklist lists B1 German as mandatory. Companies also need your B1 certificate to draw up the training contract that goes with your visa application.
Learning on the job : From machine manuals to safety briefings and patient charts, everything is in German. B1 lets you follow instructions, ask questions and avoid costly mistakes.
Pass the classroom exams : One day a week you attend Berufsschule (vocational school). Subjects like trade maths, hygiene and customer service are all tested, that too in German. So B1 is the entry ticket.
Free language upgrades : Many employers pay for extra German classes to help you reach B2 or C1, and some even give paid days off before exams.
Everyday life made easy : With B1 you can rent a room, open a bank account and make friends, which is crucial for settling in quickly.
4. The Importance of Learning German
| Trade (example) | Year 1 Stipend | Year 2 | Year 3 | Starting Salary After Graduation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Nursing Assistant (Pflegefachfrau/-mann) |
€1 190 |
€1 250 |
€1 340 |
€32 000 – €35 000 |
|
Mechatronics Technician |
€1 100 |
€1 180 |
€1 260 |
€34 000 – €38 000 |
|
Hotel & Restaurant Chef |
€1 1050 |
€1 150 |
€1 300 |
€28 000 – €32 000 |
|
IT Specialist (Fachinformatiker) |
€1 140 |
€1 220 |
€1 310 |
€36 000 – €40 000 |
Extra perks
Free public health insurance from day one.
Paid holidays: 24–30 days per year.
Pension contributions – build your German retirement pot early.
Discounted transport / staff canteens / uniform allowances depending on employer.
5. Your 6‑Step Game Plan
| Steps | What to do | Why it matter |
|---|---|---|
|
1. Learn German to B1 |
Enrol in an A1‑B1 intensive or online bundle. |
Aim for Goethe/ Telc or ÖSD B1 exam. |
|
2. Draft a German‑style CV |
Use Europass layout and highlight practical skills. |
We can review it for free. |
|
3. Pick a trade and state |
Hospitality in Bavaria? IT in Berlin? Choose based on interest and vacancies. |
Check ausbildung.de for ideas. |
|
4. Apply to companies & schools |
Send CV + B1 proof; many firms interview by video. |
Apply early—places fill by late summer. |
|
5. Secure an Ausbildung contract |
Company issues training agreement; you sign. |
Needed for visa. |
|
6. Apply for Ausbildung visa |
Submit contract, B1 certificate, funds proof. |
Embassy processing ~8–12 weeks. |
(Bookmark this table; it’s your checklist.)
6. FAQ – Your Questions Answered
1. How long does an Ausbildung last?
Most programmes run 3 years. Some trades (e.g., nursing) can be shortened to 2½ years if you have prior experience.
2. Is there an age limit?
No legal cap, but companies prefer applicants 17‑30 because of long‑term career prospects and insurance costs.
3. Do I need a blocked account?
Usually no. Your signed training contract and stipend cover living costs, so the embassy waives the blocked‑funds rule.
4. Can I bring my spouse or children?
Yes, after you have lived in Germany at least 6 months on an Ausbildung visa and can show adequate income + housing.
5. Can I switch employers mid‑Ausbildung?
Rarely. You need Chamber approval and a new company willing to take over your contract. Better to finish, then change jobs.
6. Is the qualification recognised outside Germany?
Yes – within the EU/EEA and often beyond, because it follows strict EU standards (EQF Level 4).
7. Do I have to know English?
No, German is the key language. English is a bonus in hospitality or IT but not mandatory.
8. How fast can I reach B1?
With intensive study (20 hrs/week) you can hit B1 in 8‑9 months; part‑time learners may need 12‑14 months.
9. What happens after graduation?
You switch to a Skilled‑Worker Residence Permit, often on an unlimited contract, and can pursue further studies or a master craftsman (Meister) qualification.
7. Conclusion
Germany’s Ausbildung programme is one of the fastest, safest ways to build a career in Europe. In just three years you:
Earn while you learn – a monthly stipend that covers living costs from day one.
Graduate debt‑free with a nationally recognised qualification.
Step straight into a €34 k starting salary (and rising) at age 21 or 22
B1 German is the key. Reach this level and three big doors open:
Visa approval (the embassy checklist demands B1).
Company contract (employers must file your language proof).
Daily success in the workshop, classroom and social life.
Stick to that timeline and you could land in Germany before the next training year starts.
Book your A1 class (today).
Set a B1 exam date nine to ten months ahead..
Draft a German‑style CV and send your first application before your exam. Companies often issue conditional offers.
Thousands of seats still wait—69 000, to be exact, so the opportunity is real and immediate. Take these next steps now:
Ready to begin?
Enrol in our A1‑B1 German combo course for a FREE German‑style CV makeover, interview coaching and visa guidance.
GD Language Team
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