Latest information on German vocational training contracts and things to know

Germany is an attractive destination for young Vietnamese people when looking for vocational training programs with high salaries and good treatment policies. However, one of the conditions to apply for a Visa is that you must have German vocational training contract signed with the training unit. In the following article, SHD Academy will provide full information on the content, regulations and important notes contained in the German vocational study contract.
>> Reference:

• Detailed information about German vocational training conditions 2025
• Total cost of vocational study in Germany latest 2025

What is a German vocational training contract?

Contract vocational training in Germany is an agreement between the learner and the vocational training unit, expressed in writing and confirmed by both parties. The content of the contract fully shows information about the training program. Including: Job position, training content, training time, working hours, salary, etc. 

In addition, the contract also clearly states the responsibilities and obligations of both parties, cases of contract liquidation, etc. All these terms need to be reviewed and stamped by the German Chamber of Commerce and Industry (IHK), except nursing.

Signing a contract for vocational training in Germany is a way to protect the rights of learners and training organizations throughout the learning process. Based on the existing terms, both parties can build a fair and transparent learning and working environment. At the same time, this contract is a solid foundation, helping learners confidently develop their careers, from the time they arrive in Germany until they settle down later.
>> Reference: Summary of the highest paying occupations in Germany 2025

Information required in a German vocational training contract

The main information of the vocational training contract is clearly stipulated in the German Vocational Training Act (abbreviated as BBiG). In case of new regulations, the two parties shall negotiate, reach an agreement and send a written explanation to BBiG. Below are the 4 main information required in the German vocational training contract:

Probationary period

All Occupations deployed in the German vocational study abroad program The probationary period is a maximum of 4 months. The specific period will depend on the agreement between the learner and the training organization. In case the probationary period lasts longer than 4 months due to objective reasons (such as the international student being on sick leave), an additional appendix must be added stating the new probationary period.

Apprenticeship time

The duration of formal vocational training programs will be from 3 to 3.5 years, depending on the nature of the field of study and the training unit. Normally, for courses starting in September, it will take about 3 years to complete the program. For courses starting earlier (ie entering in the extra semester), it will take about 3.5 years to complete. 

So, whether it is 3 years or 3.5 years, this time does not have much difference.

>> Reference:

• LEARN ABOUT STUDYING AUTOMOTIVE ENGINEERING IN GERMANY
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Working time

German labor law clearly stipulates working hours for international students participating in vocational training programs. Accordingly, the standard working hours per week are 40 hours, divided equally into 5 working days.

Note that the German vocational training contract must also clearly state the time each student is allowed to register for part-time work, with a maximum of 48 hours per week and no more than 8 hours per day. In addition, if the work shift lasts from 6 to 9 hours, the student is entitled to a break of at least 30 minutes. If the work shift is over 9 hours, there will be a 45-minute break between shifts. 

In addition, the leave regime for international students is also shown in the vocational study contract. International students are entitled to leave regime like official employees working in Germany. Each student will have from 24 to 30 days of paid leave/year (maybe more depending on the profession). This number does not include holidays and Tet according to the regulations of each state where the international student is studying and working.

Vocational training allowance in Germany

Training allowance is an important item that needs to be considered in the German vocational training contract. According to regulations from BBiG, from 2025, the salary minimum for students at companies without collective labor agreements are: 

• 682 Euro/month (about 17 million VND/month) in the first year.
• 805 Euro/month (about 21 million VND/month) in the second year of training (increase 18% compared to the first year).
• 921 Euro/month (about 24 million VND/month) in the third year of training (increase 35% compared to the first year).

Depending on the characteristics of each profession and practical training program, businesses can pay different salaries but must not be lower than the minimum wage.

One important thing to note is that to be granted a Vocational Study Visa, you must prove that your account maintains at least 929 Euro/month (about 24 million VND). Therefore, Do I need to prove my financial resources to study vocational training in Germany? If the allowance in your vocational training contract is lower than the prescribed amount, you will need to open a blocked account to deposit the remaining amount. 

With a network of more than 40 reputable partners in Germany, SHD Academy supports students to connect and easily sign work contracts with these businesses. In particular, SHD Academy commits that all training contracts are signed with a minimum salary of 929 Euro/month. Therefore, students do not need to open a blocked account or provide additional financial proof. This helps students increase the rate of being approved by the Embassy for a German vocational study visa.
>> Reference: Should I study vocational training in Germany? The truth about vocational training in Germany

Some important notes when making a contract for vocational study in Germany

The German vocational training contract is an important basis for the Embassy to review and issue visas to students. To have a complete and neat vocational training contract, you need to pay attention to the following issues:

• For those who have German B1 level, you need to prepare 4 contracts, including: 6-month German B2 study contract; 6-month housing contract; vocational training contract and paid internship contract.
• For students who have B2 level of German, they only need to prepare 2 contracts: apprenticeship contract and paid internship contract.
• The information on the contract must be accurate and truthful, presented according to the standards of the Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany.
• Review the personal information stated on the contract, make sure you have read and understood the terms signed.

>> Reference: German learning roadmap guide for beginners

Conquer the German vocational study path with SHD Academy

Preparing a contract for vocational training in Germany is a process that requires meticulousness and careful preparation, especially for those who are new to the German vocational training program. Understanding that, SHD Academy was born with the mission of becoming a reliable bridge, helping young Vietnamese people easily conquer their dream of building a good future in Germany. 

During nearly 7 years of operation, SHD Academy has built a comprehensive vocational study abroad program in Germany, including the following steps:

• Step 1: Consulting and orientation: Based on individual abilities and labor market trends in Germany, SHD Academy will advise students on costs and detailed study paths so that students can choose a suitable career and maximize their strengths, meeting the human resource needs of the international market. 
• Step 2: German training: For those who do not know German, they will be able to participate in a German course at SHD Education Training Center. The classes here also organize events and festivals according to German cultural standards, from customs, cuisine to daily life skills. Through this, students can practice cultural behavior, understand how to communicate and work with Germans. From there, students can confidently integrate into life immediately after arriving in Germany.
• Step 3: Interview and receive contract: Students will be connected with businesses in Germany in the right major and participate in interviews to receive vocational training contracts. With a close cooperation network with large businesses in Germany, SHD Academy commits to 100% students successfully signing vocational training contracts in Germany with a training subsidy of at least 929 Euro/month (about 24 million VND/month).
• Step 4: Visa application processing: For nearly 7 years of operation, SHD Academy has successfully supported 99% students to pass the German vocational study visa. SHD Academy's team of experts will support students to complete the visa application according to the standards of the German Embassy. After receiving the visa, students will depart for Germany to settle down, ready for the process of studying, working and living long-term in Germany.

>> Reference:

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Thus, the above article has provided important information needed in German vocational training contractUnderstanding this information will help you better understand the contract signing process, ensure your rights and limit problems that may arise. Contact SHD Academy when needing advice on the preparation process German vocational study profileWe are always ready to accompany young people to realize their dream of studying vocational training in Germany and developing a long-term career in this country.