Ausbildung vs Studium vs Fachkraft
There are three main pathways for Kenyans to live and work in Germany. Each has different requirements, costs, and outcomes. This guide helps you decide which one fits your situation.
Ausbildung
Vocational Training
- What Is It?
- Paid vocational training combining classroom learning and on-the-job experience at a company or hospital.
- Duration
- 2–3.5 years
- German Required
- B1–B2
- Earn While Learning
- Yes — €1,000–1,500/month from Year 1
- Blocked Account Required
- No
- Visa Type
- Ausbildung visa (§16a AufenthG)
- Best Age Range
- 18–30
- After Completion
- 2-year work permit → permanent residency path
- KCSE Requirement
- C+ and above (varies by field)
- Best For
- KCSE graduates, career changers, hands-on learners
Studium
University Degree
- What Is It?
- Academic degree at a German university — Bachelor's or Master's programme.
- Duration
- 3–4 years (Bachelor's)
- German Required
- B2 (or English for some programmes)
- Earn While Learning
- Limited — part-time jobs up to 20hrs/week
- Blocked Account Required
- Yes — €11,904 (2026 requirement)
- Visa Type
- Student visa (§16b AufenthG)
- Best Age Range
- 18–25
- After Completion
- 18-month job search visa → work permit → PR
- KCSE Requirement
- B+ and above (competitive)
- Best For
- Strong academics aiming for research or corporate careers
Fachkraft
Skilled Worker
- What Is It?
- Direct employment in Germany using your existing professional qualifications.
- Duration
- Immediate employment
- German Required
- B1–B2
- Earn While Learning
- Full salary from day 1
- Blocked Account Required
- No
- Visa Type
- Skilled worker visa (§18 AufenthG)
- Best Age Range
- 25–45
- After Completion
- Already working — PR after 4 years
- KCSE Requirement
- Relevant degree or 2+ years experience
- Best For
- Experienced professionals with recognised qualifications
Not Sure Which Pathway Is Right for You?
Your ideal pathway depends on your age, education, German level, budget, and career goals. Take our free Readiness Score to get a personalised recommendation, or sign up to see this comparison customised to your profile.