Apprenticeship Visa

The German Apprenticeship Visa (Section 16a) lets non-EU nationals enter Germany for a dual vocational training program, combining paid on-the-job work with vocational school instruction. Applicants need a signed Ausbildungsvertrag with a recognized employer and German language proficiency at B1 level.

The permit covers the full apprenticeship (typically 3 years) and extends as needed. Trainees earn a salary—minimum threshold €1,048/month gross—and may take a secondary job up to 20 hrs/week. Completing training opens a path to permanent residency and conversion to a skilled worker permit (Blue Card or §18b).

This visa is ideal for non-EU adults with a German apprenticeship contract, B1 German, and a goal of earning a recognized trade qualification with a route to long-term settlement.