German Visa Types Explained
Choosing the right visa type is the first step to a successful application. This article provides a detailed comparison of the three main German visa types to help you make the best choice.
🎓 Ausbildungsvisum (Training Visa)
Target Applicants
- Have secured a German Ausbildung training contract
- Possess basic German language skills (usually B2)
- Usually aged between 16-35 years
Application Requirements
- ✅ Valid Ausbildung training contract
- ✅ German language proficiency certificate (B1 or above)
- ✅ Financial proof: €11,904/year
- ✅ Health insurance certificate
- ✅ Clean criminal record certificate
Advantages
- 🟢 High success rate (guaranteed by contract)
- 🟢 Can start vocational training immediately
- 🟢 Receive salary during training
- 🟢 Easy to obtain work visa after training completion
Disadvantages
- 🔴 Need to secure training contract first (challenging)
- 🔴 Relatively high German language requirements
🗣️ Sprachvisum (Language Visa)
Target Applicants
- Low German proficiency, need to learn language first
- Hope to find Ausbildung opportunities in Germany
- Have sufficient funds to support living during language learning
Application Requirements
- ✅ Language school admission letter
- ✅ Basic German proficiency certificate (A1 or above)
- ✅ Financial proof: €11,904/year + language course fees
- ✅ Health insurance certificate
- ✅ Clean criminal record certificate
Advantages
- 🟢 Lower German requirements (A1 sufficient)
- 🟢 Can learn language and seek training opportunities in Germany
- 🟢 Better understanding of German culture and job market
Disadvantages
- 🔴 Higher costs (need to pay for language courses)
- 🔴 No guarantee of finding Ausbildung opportunities
- 🔴 Limited visa duration (usually 1 year)
🎯 Chancenkarte (Opportunity Card)
Target Applicants
- Have professional skills or qualifications
- Hope to find work or training opportunities in Germany
- Meet points-based requirements
Application Requirements
- ✅ Score 6 points or above (out of 14 points)
- ✅ German B1 or English B2 proficiency
- ✅ Financial proof: €13,092/year
- ✅ Health insurance certificate
- ✅ Clean criminal record certificate
Points Calculation Standards
| Category | Points |
|---|---|
| German proficiency | A1(1) - C2(4) |
| English proficiency | B2(1) - C2(2) |
| Education | Vocational training(1) - Master’s(3) |
| Work experience | 2 years(1) - 5+ years(2) |
| Age | 25-35 years(1) |
| German connection | Study/work experience(1) |
Advantages
- 🟢 No need to secure contract in advance
- 🟢 Can seek work or training opportunities
- 🟢 Relatively flexible application conditions
Disadvantages
- 🔴 New policy, limited application experience
- 🔴 May face intense competition
- 🔴 No guarantee of finding suitable opportunities
📊 Three Visa Types Comparison Table
| Comparison Item | Ausbildungsvisum | Sprachvisum | Chancenkarte |
|---|---|---|---|
| German Requirement | A2-B1 | A1 | B1 |
| English Requirement | None | None | B2 can substitute German |
| Financial Proof | €11,904/year | €11,904/year + course fees | €13,092/year |
| Prerequisites | Training contract | Language school admission | 6+ points |
| Application Difficulty | Medium | Low | Medium |
| Success Rate | High | Medium | To be observed |
| Visa Duration | Training period | Usually 1 year | 1 year (renewable) |
💡 Selection Recommendations
If you have German basics and secured a training contract
👉 Choose Ausbildungsvisum - Most direct path
If you have low German proficiency but sufficient funds
👉 Choose Sprachvisum - Safe improvement path
If you have skills but no contract, and meet points requirements
👉 Choose Chancenkarte - Flexible new option
🔗 Financial Proof Service Recommendations
To meet visa application financial proof requirements, we recommend the following blocked account services:
Fintiba Blocked Account
- ✅ Officially recognized by Germany
- ✅ Online application, simple operation
- ✅ Designed specifically for students and trainees
- 💰 Opening fee: €89
Apply for Fintiba Account Now →
Expatrio Blocked Account
- ✅ Fast account opening process
- ✅ Multilingual customer support
- ✅ Includes insurance services
- 💰 Opening fee: €49
Apply for Expatrio Account Now →
📞 Need Professional Guidance?
Choosing the right visa type is crucial for your German journey. If you need:
- 🎯 Personalized visa type assessment
- 📝 Professional document writing guidance
- 📋 Complete application material review
- 🗣️ Interview coaching services
Feel free to contact us for professional consultation services.
Note: Visa policies may change at any time. Please refer to the latest information published by German consulates. It’s recommended to consult professional advisors before applying.