Sharpen your application profile
CV, motivation and language level must match the job.
Training positions are often allocated a year in advance. Anyone who applies in the fall has the best chance of starting the following September. The following applies to international applicants: the application and visa application run parallel – not one after the other.
The training application must quickly show employers why the job, language and start date are realistic.
CV, motivation and language level must match the job.
Many applications without a target job seem weak and lead to rejections.
First prioritize suitable professions and companies, then apply properly.
As on the homepage: first clarify the direction, then decide on the details.
Application route
There are two ways to find a training place. Both can work - the right one depends on the job, the region and your own situation. Anyone applying from abroad should know both ways and use them in parallel.
Directly with the company or via an agency
Apply directly to the training company
Placement via the Federal Employment Agency
Application documents
The documents for an apprenticeship application are more compact than for a course of study – but complete, neat and in German They still have to be. A letter of motivation in German is a clear signal to the company.
Complete application folder
Cover letter
The cover letter is the first impression. It explains why this profession, why this company and why Germany. Anyone who answers these three questions will stand out.
Structure and typical errors
| Section | Content | Length |
|---|---|---|
| Entry | Why exactly this company? Specifically, not generally | 2-3 sentences |
| Motivation | Why this job? What made you do this? | 3-4 sentences |
| Suitability | Relevant experiences, school qualifications, language | 3-4 sentences |
| Foreign reference | Why Germany? Show willingness to settle in | 2-3 sentences |
| Graduation | Invitation to an interview, availability | 1-2 sentences |
Interview
Training interviews are not interrogations. Most companies want to know whether Reliability, interest and communication agree. Linguistic uncertainties are accepted – lack of preparation is not.
Preparation and typical questions
Some companies conduct the interview on video - this is particularly common for applicants from abroad. Test technology in advance. Choose a quiet, bright environment. Keep documents handy.
There is no problem with speaking more slowly or asking to repeat. What is important is that Interest and preparation are recognizable.
After the promise
The commitment is the beginning - not the goal. The visa process begins with the signed training contract. Both must be initiated in good time so that the start of training is not jeopardized.
The training visa (Section 16a Residence Act) has an average processing time two to six months. If you want to start in September, you should apply for a visa no later than March or April put.
The company can be contacted by email until you enter the country - this shows commitment and helps to clarify practical questions (apartment, first day).
What comes next
You now know how the application process works.
Let us clarify whether your documents and profile are sufficient.
Free · No obligation · 30-45 minutes
Applicants who want to combine company, job and application documents in a targeted manner.
Sharpen your application profile and company selection before applying for a visa.
Sort applicationAs of: May 2026. Lalmano checks content editorially and is based on official information, including from Foreign Office, BAMF and Make it in Germany. The content does not replace individual legal advice.