Being a teacher in Germany is rewarded with a high-quality education system and a strong job market. But the question remains, “Can a foreigner be a teacher in Germany?” This article answers this question in detail and tells you how to immigrate to Germany as a teacher. It also talks about teaching jobs in Germany and salaries. Keep reading to learn about working as a teacher in Germany.
How to Immigrate to Germany as a Teacher?
To immigrate to Germany as a teacher, follow these simple steps:
- Checking eligibility
- Having language proficiency
- Finding a teaching job
- Applying for a visa
- Moving to Germany
Step 1. Checking Eligibility
Let’s talk about the requirements to be a teacher in Germany and answer the question: “How to qualify as a teacher in Germany?” Germany’s requirements for teachers include:
- A Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in education or a related field. You may need additional qualifications if you have a degree in specific subjects or specialties. German authorities have to recognize foreign qualifications. You’ll have to submit your education credentials.
- A valid teaching license or certification from your home country or an international body
- Work experience. This can range from 2-5 years, depending on the school or level of education.
- A clean criminal record or a police clearance certificate
- Some schools may require a medical examination to prove physical and mental eligibility.
Step 2. Having Language Proficiency
Learn German. Most teaching positions require fluency in German. For most teaching positions, a C1 level of German is required. German language tests for this purpose include:
- TestDaF (Test Deutsch als Fremdsprache)
- Goethe-Institut Certifications
- DSH (Deutsche Sprachprüfung für den Hochschulzugang)
Step 3. Finding a Teaching Job
You can look for teaching jobs in Germany. These websites can help you:
Job Searching Websites
- StepStone.de
- Indeed Germany
- Monster.de
- Make-it-in-Germany.com (official portal for qualified professionals)
- Lehrer.biz (specific for teaching jobs)
International Schools in Germany
- Berlin International School
- Munich International School
- Frankfurt International School
- International School of Hamburg
- Cologne International School
Language Institutions
- Goethe-Institut
- Berlitz
- VHS (Volkshochschulen – Adult Education Centers)
Recruitment Agencies
- Randstad
- Michael Page
- Hays
Step 4. Applying for a Visa
To immigrate to Germany as a teacher, you need to get a work visa for Germany. You must:
- Find a job in Germany. You need this before you apply for a work visa.
- Make sure you have the right type of work visa. Teacher visas are usually regular employment visas.
- Get a national (long-term) visa by filling out the form.
- Gather the required documents:
- Your valid passport with at least 6 months of validity
- A signed job offer or contract from your employer
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) or resume
- Your educational and professional qualification certificates
- Proof of health insurance coverage (Techniker Krankenkasse (TK), Allianz, AOK, BARMER, DAK-Gesundheit)
- Your biometric passport photos
- Proof of accommodation in Germany. You can use websites like ImmobilienScout24, WG-Gesucht, Immowelt, eBay Kleinanzeigen, etc.
- Declaration of accuracy of information
- Pay the visa fee. It is usually around 75 euros, but it can vary. Make sure to have the payment receipt.
- Book an appointment at the German embassy in your country.
- Go to the visa interview on the scheduled date. Take all your documents and application forms with you.
- Wait for the visa to be processed. This can take from a few weeks to a few months.
- Once approved, collect your visa from the embassy or consulate.
Step 5. Moving to Germany
After obtaining your visa, plan your move to Germany. This includes:
- Register at the Local Registration Office (Einwohnermeldeamt/Bürgeramt). You have to register your address within a week of arriving. Make sure you bring your passport, visa, and rental contract.
- Apply for a Residence Permit. Visit the local Ausländerbehörde (Foreigners’ Registration Office) to apply for a residence permit. You’ll need a few documents: a passport, proof of residency, a job contract, health insurance, and a registration permit.
- Open a Bank Account. Open a current account with a bank. Popular banks in Germany include Deutsche Bank, Commerzbank, and Sparkasse.
- Get Your Teaching Qualifications Recognized. Recognize your foreign teaching credentials. Get in touch with the local school authority or the Ministry of Education. Read about it in the below section.
- Attend an Integration Course. These courses give you a better understanding of the German language, culture, legal system, and society. Volkshochschule (VHS) is one of the institutions that offers them.
- Learn About German Culture and Laws. You’ll easily integrate into German society if you’re familiar with local customs, rules, and laws.
- Notify Ausländerbehörde of Any Changes. If you change your address or job, inform the Ausländerbehörde.
- Explore Local Transportation Options. Learn about public transportation like buses, trams, and trains. If you’re going to ride the train a lot, you might want a BahnCard.
- Get a Local SIM Card or Mobile Plan. For better communication, choose a mobile provider. There are a lot of providers like Deutsche Telekom, Vodafone, and O2.
- Connect with Local Expatriate and Social Groups. As you adjust to your new environment, joining a group or community can help you.
Can Foreigners Work as Teachers in Germany?
Let’s answer the question: “Can I move to Germany as a teacher?” Yes, foreigners can work as teachers in Germany. They can work in international schools, private language institutions, and universities. However, qualifications and language requirements need to be met.
German Teacher Certification Recognition Process
To immigrate to Germany as a teacher, you may need to get your teaching qualifications recognized or accredited. The process includes:
- Gather all necessary documents. This typically includes your degree certificates, transcripts, teaching certifications, proof of work experience, and identity documents. If these are not in German, they must be translated by a certified translator.
- Complete the application form for recognition of foreign qualifications. Attach the prepared documents and apply them to the appropriate authority.
- The authority will assess your qualifications against German standards. They might evaluate your educational background, teaching experience, and any professional development courses you’ve undertaken.
- You may also be required to provide proof of your proficiency in the German language, usually at a B2 or C1 level, depending on the state and type of school.
- If there are significant differences between your qualifications and the German standards, you might be required to complete an adaptation period. This could include additional training, an internship in a German school, or passing an aptitude test.
- You will receive a decision after the assessment and any necessary adaptation period. If successful, your qualifications will be recognized as equivalent to a German teaching qualification, allowing you to teach in Germany.
Teaching Jobs in Germany with Visa Sponsorship
- International Schools (for example, Berlin International School)
- Private Language Schools (for example, Berlitz)
- Universities
- Some public schools
Teaching Jobs in Germany for Foreigners
- ESL Instructor
- Subject Teacher at International Schools
- Guest Lecturer at Universities
- Private Tutoring
- Corporate Language Trainer
How Much is the Salary of Teachers in Germany?
Many factors determine a teacher’s salary in Germany, such as the type of school, the region, the teacher’s experience, and whether the teacher works for the government or the private sector.
- Public Schools. Entry-level teachers can expect approximately €3,000 to €3,500 per month. Experienced teachers can earn exceeding €5,000 per month.
- Private Schools. Depending on the school’s prestige and funding, they may match or exceed public schools.
- English Teachers. For English teachers, the salary can depend on whether they’re working in a public school, a private language institute, or as freelancers. The pay can range from €15 to €30 per hour.
English Teaching Jobs in Germany with Visa Sponsorship
- ESL Teacher in Private Language Schools
- English Teacher in International Schools
- Corporate English Trainer
- English Lecturer in Universities
English Teaching Jobs in Germany
- ESL Teacher in Language Institutes
- English Literature or Language Teacher in International Schools
- Private English Tutor
- Freelance English Trainer for Businesses
Immigrate to Germany as a Teacher: Let’s Recap
We covered how to be a teacher in Germany in this article. Teaching jobs in Germany offer a world of opportunities for both personal and professional growth. You can start a successful career with the right qualifications in one of Europe’s most advanced educational countries.
If you have any questions about moving to Germany as a teacher, write them in the comment section.
FAQs
Typically, you need work experience, a relevant degree, teaching qualifications, and fluency in German. A work visa is also required for non-EU citizens.
Ensure you have German language proficiency and teaching qualifications. Apply for a work visa after finding a teaching job as a non-EU national. UK citizens follow the same process post-Brexit.
To apply for a work visa and residence permit, American teachers must first get their qualifications recognized in Germany, demonstrate German language proficiency, and secure a teaching position.
Teachers in Germany have high standards, fluency in German, and a deep understanding of the German education system. It’s possible, though, if you have the right qualifications and dedication.
Germany’s teachers are generally well paid, but salaries vary by region, school type, and experience level. Teachers in public schools usually get higher salaries and better job security.
- Published by
- Max-B.
- 4 Comments
I really would like to work as an English teacher.
Good luck
I really would like to work as an English teacher in Germany . Can’t wait…🥰
Good luck