Changing Training Providers: Is It Possible?
Terminating an Apprenticeship in Germany: A Step-by-Step Guide
In Germany, terminating an apprenticeship after the probationary period requires following formal contractual and legal procedures. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you navigate this process.
- Review the Apprenticeship Contract and Legal Notice Periods: After the probationary period (usually lasting 1 to 4 months), the termination of the apprenticeship contract must comply with German civil law (§622 BGB). The notice periods depend on the length of employment and are typically 4 weeks to the 15th or end of a calendar month, but can be longer depending on the length of service. The exact notice period is often stated in the contract or collective agreement relevant to the training industry.
- Submit a Written Termination Notice: The apprentice must provide a written notice to the current training company within the required notice period. The notice must be clear and state the intention to terminate the apprenticeship outside probation. It is advisable to keep a copy for records and send the notice via registered mail or hand it in person with a receipt confirmation.
- Inform the Vocational School and Relevant Authorities: Notify the vocational school where the apprenticeship training is partially conducted. Inform the local Chamber of Industry and Commerce (IHK) or relevant training authority that oversees apprenticeships since they help mediate and register apprenticeship contracts.
- Search for a New Training Company: Actively look for a new apprenticeship position (Ausbildungsplatz) in the desired field. Use job portals, company websites, vocational school support, or agencies dedicated to apprenticeship placement. Prepare and submit complete applications according to German standards (cover letter, CV, certificates). Once a new company agrees, sign a new training contract and register it with the appropriate chamber.
- Legal and Financial Considerations: Terminating outside probation can have consequences, such as losing entitlement to unemployment benefits unless you have justified reasons. Ensure you fulfill all duties during the notice period. Seek legal advice or counseling from vocational school mentors or labor law experts if unsure about your rights or obligations.
In summary, an apprentice must follow formal contractual and legal notice periods to terminate their training outside probation and simultaneously start seeking a new training company, involving written notice and coordination with vocational schools and chambers. It's advisable to find a new training company before terminating or signing a termination agreement. The DGB Youth Association's "Dr. Apprentice" offer is available online for advice on apprenticeship problems and questions. Apprentices should only terminate or sign a termination agreement once they have found a new company. During the notice period, apprentices cannot continue their training in another company. No deadline needs to be observed when terminating the training agreement outside the probationary period, according to the Munich Chamber of Industry and Commerce.
- An apprentice embarking on the journey to terminate their training contract outside probation in Germany should initially focus on enhancing their education and self-development by effectively researching, applying, and securing a new apprenticeship position within the desired field.
- Concurrently, the apprentice must adhere to the learning process involved in terminating the existing apprenticeship by reviewing the contract, determining notice periods, providing written termination, informing relevant authorities, and remaining diligent in fulfilling all contractual obligations until the end of the notice period.
