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Visa for Seeking a Vocational Training Place (§ 17 Abs. 1 AufenthG)
GermanyGermany•Europe
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Visa for Seeking a Vocational Training Place (§ 17 Abs. 1 AufenthG)

Work

At a Glance

Processing Time

2-3 months

Estimated Cost

EUR €75

Stay Duration

Up to 9 months

Not renewable

Renewal

Not renewable

Family

No dependents

PR Pathway

None

Sponsor

No job offer needed

Work

Remote not required

Official Information
Germany flag

Living in Germany

Cost of Living
2% cheaper than United States
Avg Salary€36,000
Quality of Life
195/200
Full Country Guide

Overview

Nine-month German visa for third-country nationals under 35 with B1 German and qualifying school credentials to search for a vocational training place.

Under § 17 AufenthG, Germany grants third-country nationals up to 9 months to search for a qualified vocational training (Ausbildung) place. Applicants must be under 35, hold a school-leaving certificate qualifying for higher education, and have German at B1 level or above.

The visa costs €75 and requires proof of at least €1,091/month (e.g. a blocked account). Since March 2024, holders may work up to 20 hours per week while searching. The visa cannot be extended; once a training contract is signed, a separate residence permit for vocational training is required.

This visa is ideal for young third-country nationals who meet the education and language requirements and want time in Germany to secure an Ausbildung contract.

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Requirements

PUBLISHED REQUIREMENTS

Must be under 35 years of age

German language skills at least at level B1

A school-leaving certificate qualifying for higher education or equivalent (e.g., from a German school abroad)

Proof of sufficient financial means to cover living expenses (at least €1,091 net per month, e.g., via a blocked account)

Proof of health insurance

KEY CRITERIA

Education

high_school or higher

REQUIRED DOCUMENTS

Valid passport

Completed national visa application form

Proof of school-leaving qualification

Proof of German language skills (at least B1 level certificate)

Proof of financial means (blocked account of at least €1,091/month)

Proof of health insurance

Biometric passport-sized photos

Application Process

1

Obtain school-leaving certificate recognition.

2

Achieve German B1 language level and obtain a certificate.

3

Secure financial means (e.g., open a blocked account with the required amount).

4

Apply for the national visa at the German embassy/consulate in the home country.

5

Enter Germany and register the residential address.

6

Search for a qualified vocational training placement (apprenticeship).

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