Training in Germany
It is a dream of many to be able to complete an apprenticeship in Germany. Not only is the labour market excellent, but the training system is also different from other countries. It is also known that there are very good career opportunities in the Federal Republic without a degree. If you want to complete an apprenticeship as a foreigner in Germany, however, there are a few things to consider. First and foremost, you must have a solid German proficiency, both in written and oral form. Followed by legal aspects, the question arises as to how you can find a training place.
Regulations on training in Germany
For citizens from the EU, Switzerland, Liechtenstein, Norway or even Iceland, there is no legal problem to get trained in Germany. A visa or residence permit is not required in this case. All you have to do is to register at the resident registration office with your new place of residence.
If you are not from the EU, you have to apply for a visa. In order to obtain a visa permit, you must find a training facility in the first place. This must be approved by the Federal Employment Agency. Furthermore, it must be demonstrated that no other German is able to complete this training.
To apply to a company, you also need translated certificates that are recognized and certified. You can find more information on the "anabin.kmk.org" website. The school leaving certificate must be corresponding to the German qualifications. Only in this way, the training company will be able to make a better assessment. Furthermore, you must have sufficient knowledge of German. You can apply to the companies both online and in writing. When you receive a commitment, you need a visa. Furthermore, you have to prove that you have enough money to live in Germany. Depending on the state, 600 to 700 euros per month are budgeted for this purpose. You also need valid health insurance before the start of your training. The application for a visa may take up to three months. Therefore, you should complete the formalities in time.
PC skills as a required competency
In addition to the German language, you need media literacy. In Germany, computers are an integral part at work. Therefore, you should be able to handle a PC. Some companies require office knowledge, which serves as the basis for a possible hiring. Other companies also demand the competent handling of various image editing programs. Please get informed in advance what knowledge the company requires exactly. You may be able to learn the basics in your home country, so you can attach a certificate of knowledge to the application documents.
Tips to quickly find a training facility:
In Germany, training is usually dual. This means that the training is completed both in the company and in the vocational school. The vocational school takes place either one to two days a week or block by block. If you have not yet been successful in finding a training place, it makes sense to contact the vocational schools. They often have information, such as which company still have job openings and where an application makes sense. You can contact the vocational schools by phone or with e-mail. If you are already in Germany to, you can simply go to the nearest vocational school and personally search for a training company. On the Internet you will find both the subject areas and the addresses of the individual vocational schools. Big cities such as Munich, Berlin and Frankfurt offer a wider choice than small towns.