Training visit
Citizens of non-EU countries may be issued with a residence permit for the duration of a qualified vocational training programme. A qualified vocational training programme is usually defined as a training programme lasting at least two years.
A visa is always required to enter Germany for this purpose. This does not apply if you are exempt from the visa requirement. You can apply for this in your country of residence at the German diplomatic mission.
Obtaining a residence permit
In most cases the German Employment Agency needs to agree in advance that a work permit can be issued for the purpose of a vocational training programme. Further, evidence is needed of adequate health insurance cover and that the costs of living will be independently covered for the duration of the stay.
Once all requirements have been satisfied, a visa may be issued. Directly on entering Germany the trainee must visit the relevant residents' registration office. Then a residence permit must be applied for in person from the Aliens' Registration Authority. To avoid long waiting times, arrange an appointment with the advisor responsible for you in advance. You will also be told what documents you will need to provide for your matter to be dealt with.
Expiry of the residence permit
The residence permit automatically expires on successful completion of the qualified vocational training programme. For that reason it is crucial that you immediately contact the Aliens' Registration Authority when this happens. You then have the option of extending the residence permit for a maximum of one year in order to find a job related to your qualification. For the duration of the residence permit you need to prove that you have adequate funds to live on and sufficient health insurance cover.
