• Entry into the country for the purpose of training is permitted.
• You may already be employed by a company during your training.
• Within 15 months, you must:
  • obtain a German driver’s license and the initial qualification.

Important:

• The employment contract must explicitly include participation in the training program.
• Without a German driver’s license and basic qualification, you may not yet be employed as a fully qualified professional driver.

Driver’s license conversion:

• After registering your residence, the foreign driver’s license must be converted within 6 months.
• Depending on the country of origin, theoretical and practical exams may be required.

For individuals aged 45 and older:

• Minimum gross annual salary in 2026:
  • €55,770 gross
  • or proof of adequate retirement savings

Long-term prospects:

• The residence permit can be extended as long as the employment relationship continues.
• After 5 years, a settlement permit is generally possible.

The legal basis is:

• Section 19c of the Residence Act (AufenthG)
• Section 24a of the Employment Regulation (BeschV)

Further information can be found at:

• Make it in Germany
• Bundesagentur für Arbeit