Nationality as a Requirement for Bafög Funding for Vocational Training (Berufsausbildung) in Germany 2025

To receive Bafög for funding vocational training (Berufsausbildung) in Germany, German citizenship is one of the basic requirements. The Federal Training Assistance Act (Bafög) primarily supports German citizens, with certain conditions under which foreign nationals may also receive assistance. The regulations for support are based on the principle that assistance should primarily benefit domestic citizens.

In addition to German citizens, nationals of the European Union (EU) and the European Economic Area (EEA) can receive Bafög for financing their vocational training (Ausbildung) in Germany under certain conditions. This regulation is based on the freedom of movement within the EU and EEA, which facilitates access to social benefits such as Bafög, ensuring equal opportunities for all Union citizens.

Third-country nationals, meaning individuals who do not possess German citizenship or that of an EU or EEA state, can also receive Bafög to finance their vocational training (Ausbildung) in Germany under certain conditions. However, the funding for this group is subject to specific requirements regarding legal status and duration of stay in Germany.