Germany is a developed country and a dream destination for many people around the world. However, not everyone who applies gets to live their dream of building a successful life there. To achieve success, you need to know the correct way to apply.
The most effective way for a foreigner to get to Germany is through a professional training program called **Ausbildung**. This program is designed for vocational training and you can even earn a salary while studying. Your salary will depend on your chosen field, but it can range from **€1,000 to €1,300**, or even more. The program lasts for three years, and you will spend 15 days in a vocational school and the other 15 days working in a company.
The most important requirement for this program is a good level of German language proficiency. You must have passed at least the **B1 or B2 level** of a German language exam.
### The Importance of German Language Proficiency
Unlike in some other countries, it is very difficult to work in Germany with only English proficiency. This is because most things in Germany are in the German language, and many German people do not speak English.
* **A1 & A2:** Basic levels.
* **B1 & B2:** Intermediate levels, which are generally required for most professional jobs.
* **C1 & C2:** Advanced levels.
If you dream of working in Germany, you must first enroll in a German language course and get the necessary certifications. After that, you can prepare a strong CV and a professional cover letter. You can also create a portfolio with photos and videos of your work.
### Finding and Applying for Jobs Online
Many websites, including those run by the German government, list jobs for foreigners. Here are some of the best websites you can use:
* **For General Jobs:**
* [https://www.arbeitsagentur.de/](https://www.arbeitsagentur.de/)
* [https://jobs.meinestadt.de/](https://jobs.meinestadt.de/)
* [https://www.stepstone.de/](https://www.stepstone.de/)
* [https://www.monster.de/](https://www.monster.de/)
* **For Ausbildung Programs:**
* [https://www.azubiyo.de/](https://www.azubiyo.de/)
* [https://www.ausbildung.de/](https://www.ausbildung.de/)
* [https://www.aubi-plus.de/berufe/thema…](https://www.aubi-plus.de/berufe/thema…)
When searching, it’s best to use German job titles. For example, if you are a mechanic, search for the German word for “mechanic” to get better results. You can use Google Translate for this.
### Accommodation and Other Costs
When applying for an Ausbildung program or a job, some companies provide accommodation. It is important to ask about this during your interview. While the accommodation is not free, it is often at a very reasonable rate.
### Alternative Pathways to Germany
Besides the Ausbildung program, there are other visa options for skilled workers:
* **German Opportunity Card:** This visa, sometimes available, allows you to live in Germany for up to one year to look for a job. It works on a point-based system.
* **Requirements:** You need at least six points, and you must prove you have €12,324 in a blocked bank account. You can work part-time (up to 20 hours a week) while you look for a permanent job.
* **Job Seeker Visa:** This visa gives you six months to find a job in Germany. You are not allowed to work part-time, and if you don’t find a job within six months, you will have to return to your country.
* **Blue Card for Highly Skilled Migrants:** This visa is for highly skilled professionals. Some companies sponsor this visa, but you can also get it on your own if you have a high level of skill.
* **Student Visa:** If you are a student, you can study in Germany for free. However, you must show proof of funds for living expenses. Most courses are in German, so language proficiency is a must.
### Important Tips for Your Application
* **Language is Key:** The more German you know, the easier it will be to find a job and settle in the country.
* **Self-Study:** Use resources like **Chat GPT** and **Gemini** to practice your language skills.
* **Practice with Videos:** Watch German films like `Nicos Weg` on YouTube to improve your listening and pronunciation.
**YouTube Channels:** You can also watch a German learning channel like `Learn German with Herr Antrim` on YouTube.
**Validate Your Qualifications:** Before you apply, check if your educational qualifications are recognized in Germany through the [Anabin Database](https://anabin.kmk.org/anabin.html).
The process requires effort, but with the right preparation and research, your dream of working in Germany can become a reality.