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The vocational training contract in Germany (Ausbildungsvertrag) is the key legal document that regulates the relationship between the trainee (Azubi) and the training company (Ausbildungsbetrieb). This contract is governed by the Vocational Training Act (Berufsbildungsgesetz – BBiG) and guarantees clear rights and mutual obligations. Here is a detailed explanation of its most important clauses and your legal rights:
What is an Ausbildung contract?
It is a written contract concluded between you and the company that will train you, and it must be signed before the training starts.
It only becomes effective after approval by the Chamber of Industry and Commerce (IHK) or the Chamber of Crafts (HWK).
Clauses of the vocational training contract (Ausbildungsvertrag)
| Clause | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Occupation | The full job title you will be trained for, e.g.: “Elektroniker für Energie- und Gebäudetechnik” |
| Training duration | Total duration (usually 2–3.5 years depending on the profession) and the contract start/end dates |
| Training location | The exact workplace address, possibly including additional locations |
| Working hours | Weekly hours (often between 35 and 40 hours/week) |
| Training remuneration (Vergütung) | A monthly salary that increases by year (e.g., €850 in year 1, €950 in year 2, etc.) |
| Vocational school | The Berufsschule you will attend alongside practical work |
| Annual leave (Urlaub) | Number of vacation days, at least 24 days (depending on age and law) |
| Probation period (Probezeit) | Must be 1–4 months; during this time, both sides can terminate more easily |
| Termination conditions (Kündigung) | How and when either party can terminate the contract during or after probation |
| Trainee duties | e.g., attending school, completing tasks, following rules and instructions |
| Company duties | e.g., providing training, safety equipment, qualified supervision, regular pay |
Your legal rights as an Azubi
| Right | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Monthly remuneration | You are entitled to a monthly wage set in the contract that increases each training year |
| Free vocational education | The company must allow you to attend vocational school during working hours |
| Paid annual leave | At least 24 days per year, depending on age and working hours |
| Health and social insurance | Once the contract is signed, you are insured; the employer pays part of the contributions |
| Certificate at the end | You are entitled to a training certificate (Zeugnis) at the end of the Ausbildung |
| Protection from dismissal | After probation, dismissal is only possible under strict, justified conditions |
Important notes:
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Do not start working before the contract is officially signed.
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Do not leave vocational school without permission from the company and the school.
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Keep a signed copy of the contract from both parties.
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In case of problems, you can contact:
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IHK
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HWK
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or trainee counseling centers (e.g., DGB Jugend)
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ـ* The writers and editors team at the website strives to provide accurate information through extensive research and reviewing multiple sources when writing articles. However, some errors may appear or some information may be unconfirmed. Therefore, please consider the information in the articles as an initial reference and always consult the competent authorities for confirmed information.
