What is the German Ausbildung and who is it for
The Ausbildung (§16a) is Germany’s dual vocational training program: you study and work at the same time while earning a wage. According to the German government’s Make it in Germany portal, it is an effective way for young people without a vocational qualification to enter the German labor market and work toward settlement.
The program lasts 2–3.5 years with a wage throughout your training (around €1.000–1.200/month depending on the field and training year). German is usually required at B1/B2 level. After graduating, you transition to §18a Fachkraft and continue on toward permanent residence.
Want paid vocational training in Germany? Get a free profile assessment so an M2W specialist can advise you on the right field and pathway.
- Study and work at once, with a wage throughout the program
- No prior vocational qualification required — ideal for young people
- A clear pathway: Ausbildung → §18a → settlement
Popular Ausbildung fields
Many sectors in Germany face labor shortages and actively welcome international Ausbildung trainees.
Nursing & care
Pflege
A major shortage sector with high demand and a clear settlement pathway after graduation.
Engineering & mechanics
Technik
Mechanics, electrical, mechatronics and more — many German companies take on international trainees.
Hospitality & restaurants
Hotel & Gastro
A strongly rebounding service sector that needs staff and is accessible to newcomers.
The Ausbildung vocational training process
The Ausbildung is tied to a training contract with a German company.
Step 1 — Learn the language & choose a field
Reach the required German level (usually B1/B2) and choose a field and a company to train with.
Step 2 — Sign the training contract & apply for the visa
With an Ausbildung contract in hand, submit the §16a visa application along with your documents and proof of funds if required.
Step 3 — Paid vocational training
Move to Germany for 2–3.5 years of training, studying and working while earning a training wage.
Step 4 — Transition to §18a & settle
Graduate, transition to §18a Fachkraft with a permanent contract and continue on toward settlement.
Costs and important notes
Because the Ausbildung is paid, the financial pressure is lighter than studying abroad, but you still need to budget for language courses, translation, visa fees, sometimes an initial proof of funds (Sperrkonto) and service fees. Note: during training, family reunification conditions are more restricted than once you are a Fachkraft. See the cost structure on the pricing page.
Frequently asked questions about the Ausbildung
Is vocational training in Germany paid?
Yes. Ausbildung is a dual vocational training model, and trainees receive a salary throughout the course (around €1,000–1,200/month depending on the field and year of study).
What level of German is required?
Usually requires German level B1 or B2 depending on the field and employer. Some care sector roles require a higher level.
What happens after finishing vocational training?
After graduating from the Ausbildung, you move to an §18a Fachkraft visa with a formal employment contract, paving the way towards settlement.
How long does Ausbildung take?
Programmes typically last 2–3.5 years depending on the field. During this time you study and work while earning a salary.
Can I do an Ausbildung if I'm older?
Ausbildung has no strict age limit, but suits younger people best. Older applicants with experience may consider §18 or the Chancenkarte — M2W advises on the best-fit category.
Want paid vocational training in Germany?
The Ausbildung is a study-and-work pathway leading to settlement via §18a. M2W specialists advise on the right field and connect you to a vocational training program.
