Ausbildung includes company-based dual training and school-based vocational training. Requirements, payment and course structure depend on the profession and training provider.
In a company-based dual Ausbildung, trainees work with a German company and attend a vocational school (Berufsschule). The weekly schedule is organised by the company and school. School-based Ausbildung takes place mainly at a vocational school, and its fees, practical placements and payment conditions can differ.
After successfully completing a recognised program and its examinations, trainees receive a German vocational qualification. Employment and recognition requirements can still vary by profession, especially for regulated occupations.
Company-based trainees normally receive a monthly training allowance. For eligible dual training beginning in 2026, the general statutory minimum starts at €724 gross per month in the first year and rises in later years. Actual pay depends on the profession, employer, region and collective agreement. School-based training may follow different payment or fee rules.
Since Ausbildung training and workplace communication happen in German, students should normally prepare at least up to B1 and preferably B2 level. The German Missions in India state at least A2 for vocational training and at least B1 for medical professions, while employers or schools may require a higher level. Students planning for Ausbildung can complete German language training from A1 to B2 at Berlin German Academy in Surat before applying. Online German classes are also available for students in Navsari, Bardoli, Kim, Vapi and Valsad.
Most Ausbildung programs last between 2 and 3.5 years depending on the profession. High-performing trainees may shorten the duration with company approval.
German is essential because workplace communication, vocational-school lessons and examinations are normally in German. B1 is the usual general benchmark, while many employers and professions prefer or require B2. Students preparing for Ausbildung can complete German language training from A1 to B2 at Berlin German Academy in Surat before applying.
After successful Ausbildung, a trainee may be offered employment by the training company or seek another qualified position. Salary depends on the occupation, employer, region, collective agreement, shift allowances and experience. Graduates may apply to stay in Germany for up to 18 months to search for qualified employment.
Exact gross pay must be stated in the training offer or contract. It changes by profession, training year, employer, region and collective agreement. See the official 2026 general minimum table below.
| Training Year | 2026 General Minimum | Important Note |
|---|---|---|
| First Year | €724 gross/month | For eligible dual training starting in 2026 |
| Second Year | €854 gross/month | Actual contract pay may be higher |
| Third Year | €977 gross/month | Tariff and legal exceptions may apply |
| Fourth Year | €1,014 gross/month | Only for programs with a fourth year |
For company-based training, livelihood is generally considered secure when the training allowance is at least €1,048 gross or €822 net per month. If it is lower, the difference may be covered through a blocked account or declaration of commitment. For school-based training, at least €959 net per month must generally be available.
No Training Contract Yet? The separate visa for seeking a vocational training place is generally available to applicants under 35 with German B1, an eligible school-leaving certificate and financial proof of €1,091 per month. It permits a stay of up to nine months, work of up to 20 hours weekly and up to two weeks of trial work. There is no general age limit for beginning Ausbildung after a training place has been secured.
Apply through the German Consular Services Portal with your passport, recognised language proof, signed training contract, contract-registration confirmation where applicable, motivation letter, Class 10 and 12 marksheets, health-insurance proof and financial evidence. APS is not listed as a standard Ausbildung visa document, although additional certificate verification may be requested in an individual case.
Students from Mota Varachha, Varachha, Amroli, Katargam, Nana Varachha and Kapodra can prepare for Ausbildung with structured German classes in Surat from A1 to B2.
Students searching for German classes near Udhna, Navsari, Bardoli, Kim, Vapi or Valsad can join online German courses and receive current Ausbildung pathway guidance.