Apprenticeship abroad for Nigerians

Are you interested in an apprenticeship abroad for Nigerians? Learn more about income, conditions, and requirements for an Ausbildung in Germany here for free.

Apprenticeship abroad for Nigerians

Germany, a nation renowned for its rich history, vibrant culture, and robust economy, presents an exceptional opportunity for young Nigerians looking to further their education and enhance their lives. Apprenticeships in Germany not only offer practical experience across a broad spectrum of professions but also provide an avenue to learn the language, gain valuable insights into the German work culture, and establish a solid foundation for a successful career.

By embarking on an apprenticeship in Germany, young Nigerians are making a strategic investment in their future. The blend of practical experience, quality education, cultural immersion, and professional networking provides a unique and enriching experience that can pave the way for a successful and fulfilling career.

A Unique Learning Experience

German apprenticeships are globally recognized for their dual education system, which merges practical training at a workplace with theoretical learning at a vocational school. This unique approach enables apprentices to gain valuable work experience and develop their skills while also receiving a solid education tailored to their chosen profession.

Young Nigerians who choose to undertake an apprenticeship in Germany will benefit from this well-rounded, real-world education, which can significantly enhance their employability and competitiveness in the global job market.

Basics you need to know

Apprenticeships in Germany:

• are open for participants from all over the world
• are paid: participants get a monthly salary starting from 1st day
• are free of charge: there is no fee for studying and no fee for placement services
• provide legal basis to work in Germany in professions as a foreigner

Apprenticeship abroad for Nigerians: Advantages of a German apprenticeship

• For most apprenticeships German level B1 is sufficient: with daily intensive learning B1 level can be reached within 6 to 12 months
• Apprenticeships do only require a successfully finished school visit of 9 or 10 years – there are no more formal requirements
• Participants receive an apprenticeship salary from 1st day
• Many apprenticeship professions are highly respected and paid well
• There are good chances of being accepted: On about 500.000 available positions in Germany 2019 there were only around 500.000 applicants
• There is currently a high demand for people with vocational (apprenticeship) training in Germany

Two types of apprenticeships in Germany

Life-in-Germany.de only facilitates so called ‘Dual Apprenticeship’ for foreigners. This type is the most well-known type of apprenticeship in Germany. During the apprenticeship you alternate between training in theory and practice as well in a vocational school as in the company of your employer. This form of professional training is very popular because you gain practical experience from the beginning.

Participants not only get trainings but also directly work in the company. A dual apprenticeship normally lasts 2-3 years and pays a monthly salary starting from around 700 Euro. The payments increases with each year during the apprenticeship, but is also dependent on the apprenticeship, training company, and industry.

A second type of apprenticeship is the so called “Educational Apprenticeship”. This usually tales place in a vocational school / technical college in the form of full-time classes. Especially apprenticeships in the health and social services, but also in the technical professions are designed as educational apprenticeships. It is important to note that you receive no salary in an educational apprenticeship since you are not working.

Perspectives after the apprenticeship

Each apprenticeship ends with an exam. Here you need to proof that you know all aspects of your profession in theory and practice. There will be written exams and you need to demonstrate your skills. E.g. as a hairdresser you need to deliver a perfect haircut during the exam, as a painter you need to show your skills in painting a room. Having successfully passed the exam your German employer might offer you a job as a qualified worker, leveling your monthly salary up with a starting point at 1.800€ or above. You might also change your employer at this point. Together with your new working contract you can apply for a residents permit in Germany.

Having successfully finished your exam after the apprenticeship you will also have the possibility to study. Having passed at least two years of professional training and three years of professional experience you can also apply for university studies. This even is possible when you do not have a higher education entrance qualification (equivalent to the German “Abitur”), which is usually a prerequisite for studying in Germany.

Cultural Immersion and Language Acquisition

An apprenticeship in Germany is an excellent opportunity for young Nigerians to immerse themselves in the German way of life and culture. By living and working in Germany, apprentices will naturally develop their language skills, helping them to become more proficient in German. This language proficiency, coupled with a deeper understanding of the country’s customs and traditions, can be a significant asset in both their personal and professional lives. Moreover, a strong command of the German language can open doors to further education, such as attending a German university or pursuing a higher-level vocational qualification.

Building a Professional Network during your apprenticeship abroad for Nigerians

Networking is a crucial aspect of career development, and an apprenticeship in Germany presents an excellent opportunity for young Nigerians to build a strong professional network. Through interactions with colleagues, supervisors, and fellow apprentices, participants can forge valuable connections that can provide support, advice, and potential job opportunities in the future. These connections can be particularly beneficial for young Nigerians who wish to build their careers in Germany or in other German-speaking countries.

Financial Stability and Support

Germany offers attractive apprenticeship programs that often provide young Nigerians with financial stability during their training. Many apprentices receive a monthly salary, which allows them to support themselves while gaining valuable work experience and education. Additionally, there are various support programs available for foreign apprentices, such as language courses and integration assistance, ensuring they have the resources they need to succeed in their new environment.

Apprenticeship abroad for Nigerians: Questions and answers

In which countries in Europe can I do an apprenticeship abroad for Nigerians?

You can find apprenticeship programs in many countries in Europe. This includes countries as Belgium, France, Italy, or Denmark. Each country has its specific regulations and requirements when it comes to allowing international participants.

Who can start an apprenticeship in Germany?

Nigerians, like foreigners from all countries in the world, can start a vocational training in Germany. It does not matter if you already have a visa for Germany. Nigerians have very good career opportunities in Germany on the basis of current legislation: After vocational training, it is possible for Nigerians to stay in Germany in order to work in this profession.

How much do I earn in an apprenticeship program in Germany?

During your training, you will receive a monthly payment from your employer to cover your basic living costs in Germany. The monthly remuneration is around 1.100 Euros on average. For some apprenticeship positions, German employers pay even more than €1,200 per month. The amount of the monthly allowance largely depends on your employer and your curriculum vitae.

Employers often offer additional support such as free tickets or financial support for your accommodation. Life-in-Germany.de or your employer will inform you about the specific conditions duringthe application process since they are individual for each single position. After the apprenticeship, you may be enrolled as a skilled worker in Germany to similar conditions as German workers.

How long is an apprenticeship in Germany?

An apprenticeship in Germany lasts between 3 and 4 years, depending on the profession. If you already have qualifications in the profession it might be shorter. You will learn your profession to 50% within the company by practical work and to 50% in a special vocational school. Lessons will be held in German only – therefore you need German skills on level B1 of the GER. During the training in Germany, you will be employed by a German company with a German contract providing the same rights and obligations as for German nationals.

Which degree do I acquire with an apprenticeship in Germany?

As a rule, a certificate as ‘skilled worker’ is awarded as a degree. This degree offers excellent career opportunities in Germany and worldwide. The skilled worker qualification enables you to apply for a permanent residence permit in Germany, provided that some other requirements are met.

Which is the maximum age for an apprenticeship in Germany?

There is no age limit. In some professions – e.g. nursing care – applicants over 40 years of age are not rare. However, you should note that as a foreigner you will learn at the vocational school together with German students who are usually between 16 and 25 years old.

Which German language skills do I need for an apprenticeship in Germany?

You must speak German at least at level B1 at the beginning of the training. However, you can apply already when you have an A2 command of German. For nursing care training, you will need a B2 level of German.

Which language certificates do I need for an apprenticeship in Germany?

There is no requirement for a certificate by a selected institution. Applicants can apply with certificates from all institutions – including local language schools abroad or teachers from abroad. However, you might need to prove your command of German in interviews and during visa application when applying for your apprenticeship abroad for Nigerians.