Vocational Training Visa (Berufsausbildung)
People undertaking recognised company-based or school vocational training in Germany.
The Vocational Training Visa (Berufsausbildung) is a German study & graduate visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (~€75 (visa); ~€100 (residence permit)) and processing time (~6-12 weeks), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the Vocational Training Visa (Berufsausbildung) is for
People undertaking recognised company-based or school vocational training in Germany.
Stay on as a skilled worker after qualifying, leading to settlement.
Vocational Training Visa (Berufsausbildung) - eligibility criteria
- Training contract or place with a recognised provider
- German skills (usually B1/B2 depending on field)
- Proof of funds where training pay is insufficient
- Health insurance coverage
- Recognised school qualification
Vocational Training Visa (Berufsausbildung) cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the Vocational Training Visa (Berufsausbildung) (Germany) is ~€75 (visa); ~€100 (residence permit), with an indicative processing time of ~6-12 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 | Duration of the training (2-3.5 years typically) |
| Work rights | Training role plus up to 20 hrs/week unrelated work |
| Study rights | Recognised vocational training (Ausbildung) |
| Government fee | ~€75 (visa); ~€100 (residence permit) |
| Processing time | ~6-12 weeks |
| Route to PR | Stay on as a skilled worker after qualifying, leading to settlement. |
Pathway & next steps
Stay on as a skilled worker after qualifying, leading to settlement.
Many applicants also compare Training Search · Visa to Seek a Vocational Training Place, Skilled Worker · Skilled Worker Visa (Fachkräfte, §18a/§18b), Student · Student Visa (Studienvisum). 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 Vocational Training Visa (Berufsausbildung) pitfalls we fix
Vocational Training Visa (Berufsausbildung) - frequently asked questions
How much does the Vocational Training Visa (Berufsausbildung) cost?
The Vocational Training Visa (Berufsausbildung) government fee is ~€75 (visa); ~€100 (residence permit). Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at Make it in Germany / BAMF before applying.
How long does the Vocational Training Visa (Berufsausbildung) take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~6-12 weeks. Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the Vocational Training Visa (Berufsausbildung) lead to permanent residence?
Stay on as a skilled worker after qualifying, leading to settlement.
Can I work on the Vocational Training Visa (Berufsausbildung)?
Work rights: Training role plus up to 20 hrs/week unrelated work.
Who can apply for the Vocational Training Visa (Berufsausbildung)?
People undertaking recognised company-based or school vocational training in Germany.
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