Dual training in Germany

Dual training in Germany offers a combination of theory and practice, and optimally prepares career entrants for a professional future in Germany. Especially for young Indonesians, this form of education opens up exciting career opportunities and an internationally recognized degree. Interested? Learn more about visa requirements, language skills and very in-demand occupational fields.

Young cooks in training © Goethe-Institut

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Training, studies and FEG 2.0 in Germany

There are many opportunities to live and work in Germany. During our information event, the Goethe-Institut Indonesia invited various partner organizations to talk about opportunities for labor migration to Germany.

The Trainees

Dual training in Germany is highly regarded abroad. Many young people from Indonesia are also interested in this form of training. Questions about the dual training system are increasingly reaching us. The number of students who attend our German courses in preparation for training is also on the rise. That is why we have gathered some information here about in-company training.

Please note that the legal conditions as well as the list of skilled labor shortages may vary. All information on this website may therefore not be currently up to date.

What is dual training?

In-company dual training is an opportunity to obtain a vocational qualification in Germany. It combines theory and practice and takes place in two learning locations: in a vocational school and in the workplace. The “Azubis”, as trainees are called, learn the technical basics plus general education subjects such as German and mathematics in the vocational school. They receive practical training in the workplace about two-thirds of their traineeships. Trainers look after the trainees there. National training and examination standards guarantee the quality of training.

How long does a dual training take?

The training lasts between two and three-and-a-half years, depending on the respective training occupation. However, it’s usually 3 years and concludes by passing a final examination. Under certain conditions, the training can also be shortened or extended.

What level of language is required?

Good knowledge of the German language and regional studies are very important. After all, Indonesian trainees should feel comfortable in Germany and be able to cope well in everyday life. German is also used in the vocational schools and in the examinations. As a rule, a minimum language level of B1 is required. If you want to travel to Germany to look for a training place, you must prove that you have at least Level B2.

Dual training in Germany © Goethe-Institut/getty images

Which visa do you need to apply for?

  1. You apply for a visa to complete vocational education if you have already secured a training place in Germany, e.g. by means of the training contract. For qualified vocational education, the approval of the Federal Employment Agency is usually obtained first during the visa procedure. 
  2. To enter Germany and apply on site, you then need a visa for the purpose of seeking training. This has been possible since 1 March 2020 following the implementation of the Skilled Workers Immigration Act (Fachkräfteeinwanderungsgesetzes). This means you can stay in the country for six months and look for a training position. You should meet the following requirements:
  • Graduation from a German school abroad or a school-leaving certificate entitling students to enter university
  • At least Level B2 German
  • A maximum age of 25
  • And proof that you can support yourself

Please note that only the German Embassy Jakarta can make statements about individual visa requests and that the Goethe-Institut is not authorized to do so.

How much is the training salary?

Trainees receive a training salary. How much depends on the sector and the region in which the workplace is located. In Eastern Germany, for example, salaries are on average slightly lower than in Western Germany. The statutory minimum remuneration is currently €515/month (as of 2020) for the first year of training. A trainee’s salary increases during the course of the training.

Dual training in Germany © Goethe-Institut/getty images

Which occupational groups are currently considered shortage occupations?

Occupations in which the greatest shortage of skilled workers exists regionally and/or nationwide are called shortage occupations. Currently these are the health and care sector, but the STEM sector (mathematics, computer science, natural sciences, technology) is also experiencing a considerable shortage of personnel. Specialists and trainees for the hospitality and catering sector are in demand regionally (Positivliste Stand 09/2019).

What is the priority check?

The approval of the Federal Employment Agency (BA, Bundesagentur für Arbeit) is usually obtained in the visa procedure for company training. This agency carries out a priority check to determine whether preferential domestic candidates are available for the specific training position. It also checks whether foreign applicants are recruited on the same terms as German trainees.

Training compass

Information about company training in Germany. Here you will find useful information on training, the training occupations and requirements as well as interviews with trainees from Indonesia.
Available online here.

Dual training ©Siti Hasnah Hanum

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