The Ausbildung pathway for Nigerian nurses, explained

Germany faces a severe shortage of qualified nurses. For Nigerian nurses, the Ausbildung (vocational training) pathway offers a structured route to work in Germany — with paid training, no tuition fees, and a clear path to permanent residency.

What is Ausbildung?

Ausbildung is Germany's dual vocational training system. You work at a hospital or care facility while attending a nursing school. The programme lasts three years, and you earn a monthly stipend (typically €1,200–€1,500) throughout.

Am I eligible?

To qualify, you generally need:

• A nursing qualification (RN, SRN, or equivalent)
• B1 level German (some employers accept B2)
• A recognised school-leaving certificate
• No criminal record

Step-by-step process

1. Get your qualifications recognised: Apply through anabin or the German nursing council to have your Nigerian nursing certificate assessed.
2. Learn German: Reach at least B1 level. Aflon offers intensive courses specifically for healthcare workers.
3. Apply to hospitals: Many German hospitals recruit directly from Nigeria. You can also apply through the ANABIN portal or recruitment agencies.
4. Visa application: Once you have a job offer or training contract, apply for a visa at the German Embassy in Abuja.
5. Start Ausbildung: Your three-year programme begins. You will receive a residence permit for the duration.

What happens after Ausbildung?

After completing the programme, you receive a German nursing licence (Berufserlaubnis). You can then work as a fully qualified nurse in Germany and apply for permanent residency after a further two years of employment.

Salary and quality of life

Qualified nurses in Germany earn between €2,800 and €3,500 gross per month (more in cities like Munich or Frankfurt). Combined with Germany's public healthcare, education, and social security systems, this represents a significant improvement in quality of life.

How Aflon can help

We offer German language courses tailored for healthcare professionals, help with document preparation for the recognition process, and connect you with partner hospitals in Germany. Contact us to start your Ausbildung journey.