Studying Nursing in Germany : Ausbildung Visa Step by Step

Introduction :

Studying Nursing in Germany offers a golden opportunity to embark on a rewarding career path in healthcare. However, before you can dive into the world of compassionate caregiving, you must navigate the intricacies of securing an Ausbildung Visa. This comprehensive guide is your key to unlocking the doors of nursing education in Germany, providing you with a step-by-step roadmap to make your dream a reality. 

Join us on this informative journey as we pave the way for your future in nursing.

1. Language Proficiency:

Demonstrating at least a B1 level of German proficiency is a prerequisite. However, aiming for a B2 level increases your chances significantly. Many institutions offering "Ausbildung" (vocational training) in nursing in Germany require a B2 level for considering an applicant. It's important to note that some institutions may have different language requirements, so thorough research is essential. Additionally, some institutions may require residency in Germany, necessitating the submission of numerous applications.

2. Recognized Language Certificate:

In Germany, the evaluation of the German language proficiency is a critical aspect for those aspiring to pursue vocational training (Ausbildung) opportunities. Two prominent institutions, the Goethe-Institut and the ÖSD (Österreichisches Sprachdiplom Deutsch), play pivotal roles in this process. Aspiring candidates often undergo rigorous language assessments conducted by these institutions to demonstrate their language proficiency. These evaluations are essential, as they ensure that individuals possess the necessary language skills to succeed in their chosen vocational paths. Proficiency in German, as assessed by Goethe and ÖSD, serves as a fundamental requirement for individuals seeking to embark on successful educational and career journeys within Germany.

3. Document Preparation:

Compile your application file, including essential documents like your high school diploma (or equivalent), university transcripts (if applicable) legalized by the relevant authorities, a well-crafted motivational letter, and a structured resume – all in the German language. 

before delving into the details, it's essential to clarify that the specialization mentioned in the title is "Pflegefach," "Pflegefachmann," or "Pflegefachfrau," which pertains to nursing specialists. Holders of this degree are referred to as nurses. The training typically spans three years, comprising both theoretical and practical components, and requires a high school diploma (or equivalent). We are specifically discussing this specialization in Germany and the admission process for it.

In this article, we'll break down the process into ten key points:

Please note that the information provided here is intended to guide you through the process of pursuing nursing education in Germany. It's essential to stay updated on any changes in admission requirements and procedures specific to your circumstances and location.

 

4. Identifying Nursing Schools and Elderly Care Facilities:

• The practical contract, known as "Praktische Vertrag," responsible for providing positions for "Ausbildung" in the nursing specialization, is typically obtained through nursing schools, elderly care facilities, or clinics. Your first step is to send applications to institutions offering practical training. Many of these institutions, such as elderly care homes, are the primary providers of such contracts. After securing the practical contract, you can then proceed to apply to nursing schools for the theoretical contract known as "Schulvertrag."

5. Creating a Comprehensive List and Sending Inquiries:

• After conducting your research, compile a lengthy list of email addresses belonging to elderly care homes and other institutions that offer practical training. Document their names and addresses in a Word file. Next, send a similar inquiry to each of them, using the same template mentioned in point four but customizing it with the institution's name. It's crucial to send out numerous applications – dozens, even hundreds. Then, patiently await responses. At least one of them is likely to respond positively.

This process requires persistence and diligence, as securing an "Ausbildung" position can be competitive. However, with determination and an organized approach, you can increase your chances of finding the right opportunity for your nursing education journey in Germany.

 

6. How can you search for these institutions?

The answer is quite simple. You can either visit some well-known websites like this one: https://www.ausbildung.de, where you'll find plenty of offers and advertisements. Alternatively, you can enter these phrases into the Google search engine: "Pflegefach," "Pflegefachmann," or "Pflegefachfrau." This will display dozens of institutions that provide professional training in the field, along with advertisements.

We always emphasize self-searching without the need for agencies or companies, as they often demand significant fees that you can do without. It's a matter of time and patience. You must be patient and conduct thorough research. Eventually, you'll find what you're looking for without losing a large sum of money. If a reasonable fee can save you time, you might consider using such intermediaries.

 

7.  The Interview : Duration and Questions :

• If you receive a positive response, indicating that you are being called for an interview, typically conducted via Skype or another similar platform, it's crucial to prepare adequately for the interview.

• The interview is usually brief, lasting anywhere from 10 to 15 minutes, with a maximum of half an hour. The questions are straightforward and typically revolve around your educational background, your motivation for pursuing this training, why you chose this path, and whether you have any prior experience in the field. If your specialization is different from nursing, they may inquire why you shifted to nursing. In many cases we've observed, questions follow this pattern. There's no need to be anxious, and if your German language skills are strong, you stand a good chance of acceptance. During the interview, your Goethe language certificate is not the sole measure of your language proficiency. Your conversation skills in the interview will be the primary indicator of your German language proficiency – whether it's good, needs improvement, or still requires development. Therefore, it's crucial to focus on conversation and enhance your speaking skills.

8. Post-Interview Decision:

• At the end of the interview, you will learn whether you have been provisionally or definitively accepted. The interviewer will communicate the final decision directly to you or inform you that the result will be sent to you via email. If the answer is a definitive "yes," they will send you the practical training contract by email. Since your interview was most likely conducted with an elderly care home or clinic, they will be responsible for your monthly salary. The contract you receive via email is acceptable for visa purposes. It's important to note that the total monthly salary mentioned in the contract should not be less than 939 euros, and it should not drop below 752 euros after tax deductions. If it falls below this threshold, you are required to open a blocked bank account in Germany and deposit the remaining amount to reach a total of 939 euros for each month of your stay (12 months in total, as of April 2023). 

9. Applying for Theoretical Nursing Education:

• After receiving your practical training contract, the institution itself may provide you with a list of nursing schools, or you can request this list from them. You will use this list to send applications for theoretical nursing education alongside your practical training. When sending these applications, use the same template mentioned in point four, but include a clarification that you have secured a practical training contract and attach it to the email. The nursing school will likely respond by scheduling an interview, following the same formal process as the previous one. After the interview, they will send you the theoretical training contract.

10.Valuable Insight on Contract Signing:

• One crucial piece of advice is not to delay signing a well-structured contract. When you receive the initial contract, carefully read its terms. If it contains favorable conditions, promptly sign and return it. Seize this opportunity swiftly, but don't rush into it blindly. It's essential to read the contract thoroughly and seek advice from experts within a reasonable timeframe. Then, you can decide whether to sign or decline. This advice applies to both the practical and theoretical contracts.

Importance of Labor Office Approval:

• Another significant point to note is the approval of the labor office. Since the practical contract essentially serves as an employment contract, securing approval from the labor office is essential for your "Ausbildung" visa. While it's not mandatory, it is highly recommended. You can request this approval by sending an application to the institution that provided you with the practical contract. This process is known as "zustimmung zur Beschäftigung" and is mentioned in Article 39 of the German Residence Act. Additionally, Article 36 of the German Employment Act covers this aspect [Link to German Employment Act]. Importantly, the responsible authority for issuing this approval is the labor office, not the foreigners' office. You can also apply for it online by creating an account on the website arbeitsagentur.de [Link to arbeitsagentur.de] and completing the necessary steps.

Conclusion :

In summary, prompt but informed decision-making when it comes to contract signing, coupled with securing labor office approval, will significantly contribute to a smooth transition into your "Ausbildung" in Germany.