Visa to Seek a Vocational Training Place
Young people who want to come to Germany to look for an apprenticeship.
The Visa to Seek a Vocational Training Place is a German study & graduate visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (~€75) and processing time (~6-10 weeks), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the Visa to Seek a Vocational Training Place is for
Young people who want to come to Germany to look for an apprenticeship.
Converts to a vocational training visa once a place is secured.
Visa to Seek a Vocational Training Place - eligibility criteria
- Aged 35 or under
- German language skills at B1 level
- German school-leaving qualification or equivalent
- Proof of funds for the stay
- Health insurance coverage
Visa to Seek a Vocational Training Place cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the Visa to Seek a Vocational Training Place (Germany) is ~€75, with an indicative processing time of ~6-10 weeks. Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at Make it in Germany / BAMF.
| Type | Temporary |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | At a German consulate abroad |
| Length of stay | Up to 9 months |
| Work rights | Up to 20 hrs/week part-time while searching |
| Study rights | Searching for a training place |
| Government fee | ~€75 |
| Processing time | ~6-10 weeks |
| Route to PR | Converts to a vocational training visa once a place is secured. |
Pathway & next steps
Converts to a vocational training visa once a place is secured.
Many applicants also compare Ausbildung · Vocational Training Visa (Berufsausbildung), Chancenkarte · Opportunity Card (Chancenkarte), Job Seeker · Job Seeker Visa for Qualified Professionals. Run a free VisaChief check to see which German route best fits your profile, then prepare an application reviewed by a registered migration agency in our partner network.
Common Visa to Seek a Vocational Training Place pitfalls we fix
Visa to Seek a Vocational Training Place - frequently asked questions
How much does the Visa to Seek a Vocational Training Place cost?
The Visa to Seek a Vocational Training Place government fee is ~€75. Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at Make it in Germany / BAMF before applying.
How long does the Visa to Seek a Vocational Training Place take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~6-10 weeks. Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the Visa to Seek a Vocational Training Place lead to permanent residence?
Converts to a vocational training visa once a place is secured.
Can I work on the Visa to Seek a Vocational Training Place?
Work rights: Up to 20 hrs/week part-time while searching.
Who can apply for the Visa to Seek a Vocational Training Place?
Young people who want to come to Germany to look for an apprenticeship.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official Germany government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, fees and processing times change - always confirm the current rules with the issuing authority before you apply:
- Make it in Germany / BAMF - official Germany immigration authority