The training permit is generally granted for the duration of the training specified in the training contract. If you can already foresee that you will not be able to complete your training within the planned time frame, you must apply for an extension of the training permit.

An extension may be considered, for example, if you fail the final exam.

The vocational training relationship is usually extended until the next repeat exam. The extension is also entered in the register of vocational training relationships. Upon application, the training permit is also extended for the extension period of the vocational training.

The extension of the training permit is also required after the successful completion of a state-recognized or comparably regulated assistant or helper training program for the duration of the subsequent qualified vocational training.

If the training relationship is terminated or discontinued prematurely, the training permit expires.

In this case, it depends on whether anything has changed since the initial application for the training permit (including whether the training place for the subsequent training still exists and whether it is still a so-called "shortage occupation").

You may remain in Germany for the duration of the validity of the training permit and cannot be deported.

• You are unable to successfully complete your training, would like to extend it to achieve your training goals, or have successfully completed your training as an assistant or aide.
• You already have an apprenticeship position or are in the process of securing one.
• This is a qualified vocational training program.
• Your identity has been verified, or you have unsuccessfully but demonstrably taken all reasonable steps to verify your identity.
• You have no ties to extremist or terrorist organizations and do not support them. You have not been convicted of a criminal offense to date. There are no grounds for deportation against you.
• If you are under 18 years of age, your legal guardians must consent to your stay in Germany.

• You must apply to extend your training-based temporary residence permit before your current permit expires.

• Find out whether your immigration office allows you to submit your application online or provides a specific application form.

• If you can only apply in person, make an appointment at the Foreigners’ Registration Office. If you apply online, the Foreigners’ Registration Office will contact you after receiving your application to schedule an appointment.

• During the appointment, your identity and documents will be verified (please bring your documents to the appointment, preferably the originals).

• If your application is approved, you may be issued the new training permit during the appointment. If your application is denied, you will receive a notice of denial. In this case, you may not begin the training program.

• If you successfully complete your vocational training, you may be eligible for a residence permit for two additional years (“3+2” rule). If the company where you completed your training does not hire you, you will initially be granted a temporary residence permit for six months to look for work.
• If you terminate your apprenticeship or end it early, your temporary residence permit for vocational training will expire. You may receive a one-time six-month temporary residence permit to search for a new apprenticeship position. Training companies and educational institutions are required to notify the Foreigners’ Registration Office within two weeks of the termination of your apprenticeship.
• You are not permitted to travel abroad while holding a training permit.
• The training temporary residence permit expires if you are convicted of a crime, or if an expulsion order or deportation order is issued against you to avert a specific threat, particularly a terrorist threat.
• The proceedings are generally conducted in German. If your German language skills are insufficient, you are advised to bring someone with you who can act as a translator.
• You must provide all information to the Foreigners’ Registration Office truthfully and completely, to the best of your knowledge and belief, so that your case can be processed without significant delays.
• Providing incorrect or incomplete information may slow down the proceedings and be to your disadvantage. In serious cases, incorrect or incomplete information that you have provided and failed to complete or correct in a timely manner with the Foreigners’ Registration Office result in the revocation of residence rights already granted, a fine, imprisonment for up to three years, or deportation from the federal territory.
• Due to the complexity of residence law, this description is provided for informational purposes only and is not legally binding.

You may appeal against the decision of the immigration authorities within one month of notification.

The extension should be applied for in good time before your current training permit expires.

The validity of the training permit depends on the remaining duration of the training.

The training permit will be extended by a maximum of one year if trainees fail the final exam, the training is extended, and proof of the next exam date is provided.

The processing time may vary depending on the workload of the immigration office. Since the training permit is issued by the immigration office, it is generally possible to receive it during the appointment.

The immigration office responsible for the applicant's place of residence is responsible for issuing the residence permit. In rural districts, this is the district administration, and in independent cities, it is the city administration.

• Valid identification document (for example, passport, passport substitute, official photo ID, official documents from the country of origin such as a military ID, driver’s license, consular card, laissez-passer, service ID, or civil status certificate with a photo)
• Current biometric passport-sized photo (45 x 35 mm)
• For company-sponsored vocational training:
  • Extended vocational training contract
  • Proof of the extension of the training contract’s entry in the register of vocational training relationships (e.g., confirmation from the relevant Chamber of Crafts regarding the registration or the application for registration)
• For school-based vocational training: Extended contract from the educational institution specifying the vocational training program
• For minors: Consent from the legal guardian(s) for the planned stay (declaration of consent)
• The documents and information must generally be submitted in German. In individual cases, the Foreigners’ Registration Office may require fewer or additional supporting documents.

Fixed fee:

• 58.00 for the training permit as an adhesive label
• 62.00 for the training permit on a pre-printed form

Note:

The Immigration Office may charge a fee for extending the training permit. The timing, method of fee collection, and payment vary depending on the office.

In certain cases, fee reductions or exemptions may be granted (for example, if the applicant cannot cover their living expenses without relying on public assistance).

Forms available: No

Written form required: No

Informal application possible: Yes

Personal appearance required: Yes