DE Study → work Temporary
Germany Vocational Training Visa (Sec 16a)
Do a recognised apprenticeship (Ausbildung) in Germany and stay to work.
Official Germany & Europe pageWho this route is for
Non-EU applicants accepted into a recognised German vocational-training programme (dual or school-based Ausbildung), e.g. nursing, trades, IT, hospitality.
Eligibility requirements
- Training contract or confirmed place in a recognised vocational-training programme
- Generally German language at level B1 (or proof you will reach it / lower for some programmes)
- Proof of funds — EUR 1,091/month for 2026 if the training allowance does not cover living costs
- Valid health insurance
- School-leaving certificate / qualifications required for the programme
Requirements reviewed June 2026. They change frequently — confirm the current rules on the official page before relying on them.
Other Germany & Europe routes
Germany Student Visa (Sec 16b)
TemporaryStudy at a German university, then stay on to find graduate work.
Netherlands Orientation Year (Zoekjaar)
TemporaryOne-year permit to job-hunt or start a business after a Dutch degree or top-200 university degree.
Germany Opportunity Card (Chancenkarte, Sec 20a)
TemporaryPoints-based job-search visa — come to Germany with no job offer.
EU Blue Card (Sec 18g)
TemporaryThe EU's flagship permit for university graduates with a German job offer.