Ausbildung in Germany: document checklist

For your application

CV in the German formatA tabular CV with photo if you like, signed with place and date.
Create your CV
Cover letter for each positionOne page: why this career, why this company, when you can start.
Write a cover letter
School leaving certificateYour highest school certificate, with a translation into German or English.
German language certificateGoethe, telc, ÖSD or TestDaF. Most companies ask for B1; in nursing often B2.
Upload certificates
Internship or work referencesif neededIf you have them: they show what you have already done.

Check your certificate in anabinThe anabin database shows how German authorities rate certificates from your country.
Open anabin
Statement of comparabilityif neededSome companies or embassies ask for an evaluation of your school certificate by the ZAB.
Certified translationsif neededMade by a sworn translator, if the embassy or the company asks for them.
Apostille or legalisationif neededDepends on your country: the German embassy tells you which one you need.

Signed Ausbildung contractYou get it from your company after the interview. The visa is based on it.
Declaration on the employment relationshipA form your company fills in for the visa (“Erklärung zum Beschäftigungsverhältnis”).

Valid passportValid for long enough: check the rule of your German embassy.
Biometric passport photos35 x 45 mm, recent, light background.
Visa application and appointmentThe national visa form, and an appointment at the German embassy or consulate.
Proof that you can pay your living costsUsually your Ausbildung pay. If it is too low, an additional proof such as a blocked account. The embassy tells you the current amount.
Health insuranceFrom your first day in Germany. After you start, the statutory health insurance of your Ausbildung takes over.