Vocational Training Visa
For apprentices and trainees (Section 17 Residence Act).

Eligibility

• Vocational training contract with a German company (minimum length: 2 years except in justified individual cases).
• Sufficient German language skills (minimum A2, better B1/B2).
• Sustainable financing (blocked account or sponsorship).
• Continuation prospects after training: Good chances of being taken on as a skilled worker.
• Suitability for the training occupation, possibly a mandatory internship before the start of training.

Path to Permanent Residence

Post-training employment: After completing your vocational training, you can extend your residence permit to look for a job for up to 12 months. If you find a qualified job, you can switch to a skilled worker visa (Section 18a AufenthG). The skilled worker visa allows you to work for any employer in Germany. After 5 years in total (including training), you can apply for a settlement permit ('Niederlassungserlaubnis').

Financial proof: You must show that you can support yourself during your training. This is usually done through a blocked account (Sperrkonto) with funds equivalent to at least 12 months of living expenses (approx. €1,091 per month).