Umschulung for People with Disabilities: Comprehensive State Support for Professional Reintegration
In Germany, people with disabilities are granted special protection and targeted support under the social law framework (SGB IX), especially when a physical or mental disability or a chronic illness makes it impossible to continue in their previous occupation. In this context, an Umschulung can be a strong pathway to rebuild a stable professional future.
1) Main supporting institutions
| Institution | Role in Umschulung |
|---|---|
| Integrationsamt | Supports integration into the labor market, including training, assistive devices, and workplace adaptation |
| German Pension Insurance (DRV) | Main funder of Umschulung as part of vocational rehabilitation |
| Employment Agency / Jobcenter | Steps in only if the DRV is not responsible, depending on insurance history |
2) Conditions for Umschulung via the DRV
The disability or illness affects your ability to perform your original job.
You have paid pension insurance contributions for at least 15 months within the last 5 years, or you have a work accident / occupational disease.
The goal is “Teilhabe am Arbeitsleben”—real participation and reintegration into working life.
3) What DRV support can include
| Type of support | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Umschulung costs | Full funding of the training program |
| Monthly allowance (Übergangsgeld) | Income replacement during the Umschulung |
| Social insurance coverage | Health, pension, unemployment, and long-term care insurance |
| Transport costs | Coverage of commuting/travel expenses |
| Assistive tools / equipment | Technical devices and workplace adaptations |
| Additional support | Social guidance, career counseling, psychological support |
4) What is the role of the Integrationsamt?
The Integrationsamt becomes especially relevant for:
Providing assistive devices or workplace adaptations after the Umschulung (e.g., special chair, screen reader, talking computer).
Financial incentives for employers who hire a person with a disability (wage subsidies, initial training support).
Special protection against unfair dismissal.
Overseeing Betriebliches Eingliederungsmanagement (BEM)—a workplace reintegration plan.
5) Examples of common Umschulung paths
| Previous field | Suggested Umschulung |
|---|---|
| Physically demanding job (e.g., construction) | Office roles, tax administration roles |
| High psychological stress roles | Lab technician, data specialist |
| Hearing loss | Office roles supported by assistive technology |
6) Application steps
Identify the responsible institution (DRV or Employment Agency).
Visit a doctor and obtain an up-to-date medical report.
Apply for a vocational rehabilitation measure.
Attend a consultation with DRV or Employment Agency to select the right program.
Wait for approval and funding confirmation.
Conclusion
Umschulung for people with disabilities is more than just new training—it is a structured opportunity to rebuild a stable career path with strong legal and financial support from the state.
| Institution | What it provides |
|---|---|
| DRV | Funding, monthly allowance, insurance coverage, additional support |
| Integrationsamt | Assistive devices, workplace adaptation, legal protection |
| Employment Agency | Funding only if DRV is not responsible |
Disclaimer: The editorial team strives for accuracy through extensive research and multiple sources. However, errors may occur or some information may be unconfirmed. Please treat this as initial guidance and verify details with the relevant official institutions.
