Search for a Vocational Training Place

Are you interested in completing qualified vocational training in Germany but have not yet found a vocational training place? With a visa for the purpose of seeking a vocational training place under Section 17 (1) of the Residence Act (External link) <desc>box with arrow to the right</desc> (AufenthG) you can come to Germany to apply for a job and find a suitable vocational training place.

Einem Ausländer kann zum Zweck der Suche nach einem Ausbildungsplatz zur Durchführung einer qualifizierten Berufsausbildung eine Aufenthaltserlaubnis erteilt werden

There are two options: you can either complete school-based or in-company vocational training.

You have a school-leaving certificate that gives you access to higher education or a qualification from a German school abroad.

You are able to demonstrate German language skills at level B1

You are under the age of 35.

You are able to cover your living costs for the entire duration of your stay. You can prove this by opening a blocked bank account with a minimum of €1,091 per month (as of 2026) or by submitting a declaration of commitment.

During this time, you are permitted to work up to 20 hours a week. You also have the opportunity to complete up to two weeks of trial work.

you can enter Germany and stay for up to nine months to apply for vocational training.

It may only be issued anew if the foreigner, after leaving Germany, stayed abroad for at least as long as he or she stayed in the federal territory on the basis of a temporary residence permit pursuant to sentence 1.

As a general rule, foreigners staying in Germany pursuant to subsections (1) and (2) are to be granted a temporary residence permit for another purpose of residence only in accordance with sections 16a, 16b or 19c (2)