Last updated: 12/02/2025
(This article will be updated each academic term.)

Introduction

We are a support group for Vietnamese students in Germany. This article provides detailed information about the process of studying in Germany via the vocational training track (Ausbildung), helping you prepare your application and paperwork with ease.

We encourage you to prepare your own application so you can better understand the process and save on costs. Any form of copying or use of this article on other platforms must clearly cite the source.

A. Before arriving in Germany

I. Finding a field of study and a training school

🔗 List of vocational fields and training schools in Germany: berufenet.arbeitsagentur.de

📌 Note:

You need at least a high school diploma to apply for vocational training in Germany.
Some fields require a B1 or B2 certificate in German.
Vocational training can be divided into two types:
- Schulische Ausbildung (school-based training, unpaid or low pay).
- Duale Ausbildung (dual training, combining study and work, paid).

II. The vocational training application process

🗓 Application periods:

January–March (for the summer intake, starting in August or September)
June–September (for the winter intake, starting in February or March)

1. Preparing your application

The application includes:

📄 A copy of your passport (the photo page).
📝 A vocational training application (written in German, using the school's template or your own following a standard form).
📜 A B1 or B2 German certificate (depending on the requirements of each field of study).
🎓 A high school diploma (translated and notarized into German).
📃 A résumé (Lebenslauf) (written in German).
📩 A motivation letter (Motivationsschreiben) (stating your reasons for wanting to do vocational training in Germany).
💼 A vocational training contract (if you already have an employer who has accepted you).

2. The steps for processing your application

Step 1: Find an employer or a vocational school

You can search through the official websites:
Step 2: Submit your application
Email the school or company directly.
If you receive an invitation letter or a vocational training contract, continue to the next step.

Step 3: Translate and notarize your documents
Notarized translation of your diploma, transcript, and German certificate.
Consular legalization at the German Embassy in Vietnam.

Step 4: Apply for a German vocational training visa
📅 Book an appointment at the German Embassy: vietnam.diplo.de
The visa application includes:
- A valid passport.
- A visa application form.
- A vocational training contract or an invitation letter from the school.
- Proof of finances (about 11,208 Euro/year in a blocked account).
- A B1 or B2 German certificate.
- Health insurance.
- Visa fee: 75 Euro.

⏳ Visa processing time: 6–12 weeks.

B. After arriving in Germany

I. Things to do as soon as you arrive in Germany

️ Register your residence (Anmeldung) (within the first 2 weeks)

Go to the Bürgeramt to register your temporary residence address.
Application form: service.berlin.de

️ Open a bank account (Deutsche Bank, Sparkasse, N26... recommended)

️ Purchase health insurance (AOK, TK, Barmer... depending on the requirements of the company/vocational school)

️ Obtain a residence permit (Aufenthaltstitel)

Submit your application at the Ausländerbehörde.
Fee: about 110 Euro.

️ Begin your vocational training program

If it is a Duale Ausbildung, the company will guide you on working hours.
If it is a Schulische Ausbildung, the school will have a specific class schedule.

️ Renew your residence permit annually (provide a certificate of study and a contract continuing your vocational training).

💬 If you need help, contact the Page: Cộng đồng du học nghề Đức

We wish you success! 🇩🇪🎓