Germany's dual Ausbildung combines workplace training with vocational school and usually includes a contractual training allowance. Programme costs, language expectations, employer selection and visa financing vary. Securing a course place or language certificate does not guarantee a contract, visa, job after graduation or permanent residence.
"Dual" means learning both in a company and at a Berufsschule (vocational school), with the weekly split set by the programme. Trainees sign a training contract, receive the allowance stated in it, and complete the applicable recognised assessment. Exact terms, deductions and qualification body depend on the occupation.
| Contract item | Why it matters | What to verify |
|---|---|---|
| Gross monthly allowance | Varies by occupation, employer, region and training year | The signed contract and any applicable collective agreement |
| Net amount and deductions | Determines cash available after social contributions and other deductions | An employer breakdown; do not rely on a gross-to-rupee conversion |
| Housing or meals | May be included, subsidised or entirely separate | Written terms and current local costs |
| Visa financing gap | A low allowance may require additional proof of funds | The current official threshold and accepted proof |
For 2026, Germany's official portal states a livelihood threshold for company-based vocational training and explains how a shortfall may be covered; figures can change. Recheck the live Make it in Germany vocational-training visa guidance before filing. No general savings or disposable-income figure can be inferred from a stipend.
Time from beginner to B1 or B2 varies substantially. Use the A1→B2 German roadmap as an adjustable workload example, then set dates after assessment and confirmation of available exams. DIFL's German programme offers guided preparation but does not promise a completion date or outcome.
Treat any promise of a certain contract, placement or visa as a warning sign. Verify the employer, vacancy, fees and contract through official channels; keep receipts and never assume a payment can secure an immigration decision. Legitimate personal costs may include language study, exams, translations, visa fees, travel and required financing proof.
German preparation is one practical first step. Check your current level with the free quiz, use the Exam Calendar as a planning reference, or call DIFL at +91 99295 15151 to discuss a language-study timeline.
There is no single allowance for every Ausbildung. The amount depends on the occupation, employer, collective agreement, region and training year. For visa financing, compare the written contract with the current threshold on Germany's official Make it in Germany portal.
Germany's official vocational-training visa guidance generally refers to B1 when the training institution has not already assessed the applicant. Employers and regulated professions may require a different or higher level, so check the vacancy, contract and official guidance.
Company-based dual training normally includes a training allowance, while costs and arrangements can differ for school-based programmes. Applicants must also budget for living costs, language study, documents, travel and any financing proof required for the visa.
Graduates may apply for suitable employment or another residence status if they meet the rules in force. A qualification does not guarantee retention, a particular salary or permanent residence.