Germany has become one of the most attractive destinations for international professionals and skilled workers — offering structured education, a strong economy, and long-term career opportunities. If you’re planning to work or train in Germany, you may be wondering:
Can I get PR (Permanent Residency) in Germany in just 2 years?
The answer is yes, under certain conditions — and if you’re going through the Ausbildung route (vocational training), it’s a realistic and achievable goal. In this blog, we’ll explain what PR in Germany means, how vocational training and a job in Germany can lead to it, and what you need to do to qualify in just two years.
What is PR in Germany?
PR (Permanent Residency) in Germany, officially called Niederlassungserlaubnis, allows non-EU citizens to:
- Live and work in Germany indefinitely
- Change jobs without needing a new visa
- Access social benefits such as healthcare and pension
- Apply for German citizenship (after meeting additional criteria)
It’s the ultimate goal for many international candidates who begin their careers in Germany — and it’s more accessible than you might think.
What is Ausbildung?
Before diving into how you can get PR, let’s briefly understand the Ausbildung program.
Ausbildung is Germany’s dual vocational training system. It combines theoretical learning at a vocational school (Berufsschule) with hands-on training at a company. The program usually lasts 2 to 3.5 years, and trainees earn a monthly stipend while they learn.
Fields commonly offered under Ausbildung include:
- Healthcare and nursing
- Hospitality and culinary arts
- Retail and sales
- Food processing and logistics
- Construction, plumbing, and mechatronics
After completing Ausbildung, trainees are awarded a nationally recognized vocational qualification and can apply for a job in Germany in their field of training.
How to Get PR in Germany in 2 Years
Now, let’s answer the big question:
Can you get PR in Germany in 2 years?
Yes — if you meet the following conditions:
✅ 1. Complete Ausbildung and Get a Job
After finishing your Ausbildung, you must secure full-time employment in the field in which you trained. This is crucial, as PR eligibility is based on your continued employment in a skilled role.
✅ 2. Work Continuously for 2 Years
You must work full-time for at least 24 months in a qualified job that matches your Ausbildung training. During this time, you must:
- Hold a valid residence permit (usually under §18a or §18b of the German Residence Act for skilled workers)
- Pay social security contributions (health insurance, pension, unemployment insurance)
✅ 3. Hold a Valid Residence Permit
Your current visa status must be tied to your work as a skilled professional. If you’re still on a student or training visa, you’ll need to switch to a skilled worker residence permit after Ausbildung.
✅ 4. Meet Language and Integration Requirements
While there’s no mandatory German language test for PR in all cases, authorities generally expect at least B1-level German proficiency and a basic understanding of life in Germany.
You may be asked to show proof of:
- German language certification
- Integration course completion (if required)
✅ 5. No Criminal Record and Financial Independence
You must:
- Be financially self-sufficient (i.e., not dependent on welfare)
- Have no criminal record
- Hold valid health insurance
Once these criteria are met, you can apply for PR in Germany — even if you’ve been in the country for just two years post-Ausbldung.
Can You Apply for PR Without a University Degree?
Yes. Germany recognizes vocational training (Ausbildung) as a valid qualification pathway for skilled migration. You do not need a university degree to qualify for PR.
In fact, Ausbildung graduates who work in essential sectors like healthcare, logistics, and retail are highly valued, and the government encourages them to settle permanently.
Advantages of Getting PR Early
Achieving PR within 2 years of full-time employment offers several benefits:
- Job freedom: You can change employers or professions without visa restrictions
- Family reunification: Easier to bring your spouse and children to Germany
- Stability: No need to worry about visa renewals
- Path to citizenship: After holding PR for a few years, you can apply for German citizenship if you meet other criteria
How Magic Billion Helps You Get There
At Magic Billion, we don’t just help you apply for Ausbildung — we guide you on the entire journey, including long-term goals like PR and citizenship.
Here’s how we support you:
- Connect you with verified Ausbildung programs in Germany across high-demand sectors
- Provide German language training up to B1
- Prepare you for interviews, documentation, and visa filing
- Offer onboarding support once you arrive in Germany
- Stay in touch to help you understand job-to-PR transition processes, and make sure you’re on track for long-term settlement
With 3,600+ candidates already placed and a 100% visa success rate, Magic Billion is your trusted partner for building a secure and successful future in Germany.
Final Thoughts
So, can you get PR in Germany in 2 years?
Yes, you can — if you complete your Ausbildung, work full-time in a skilled job, and meet the other requirements.
This makes vocational training in Germany not just an education pathway, but a gateway to permanent residency and a long-term future in Europe.
Let Magic Billion help you take the first step — and walk with you all the way to PR in Germany.
