Criteria for a positive statement
Would you like to find out if you will receive a positive Statement on a Foreign Vocational Qualification (DAB)? Find out everything you need to know on this website.
Will I receive a positive statement?
Simply check the criteria below. The ZAB does not offer a preliminary review. We cannot tell you in advance if you will receive a positive statement. Please do not send documents or information to us before you have submitted an application.
Overview of the criteria
The following three criteria have to be met for a positive DAB. Expand each section to find out more.
- My training took at least 2 school years.
A year of training is as long as a school year. It is important that your training took 2 school years and was not shortened.
My training was a full-time program.
Sometimes training programs are offered as part-time or full-time programs. It is important that yours was a full-time program.
Why is this important?
The 2 years of a full-time program give you enough time to gain the skills and knowledge necessary for your occupation.
I completed my vocational training.
You passed the final exam and received a certificate of completion. This proves that you have fully completed your training.
Why is this important?
Your certificate of completion proves that your training was successful and that you have gained sufficient vocational skills.
My vocational training is recognized in the country of training.
The content of the program you completed is regulated by the state. This means that you learned everything you legally need to know to work in your occupation.
How do I find out if my training is state-recognized?
Ask the institution you did your training at. They can tell you if your program is recognized in the country of training.
Why is this important?
If a vocational training program is state-recognized, it is regulated by the state's laws and its content has been approved by the state. Each graduate has gained certain kowledge and skills.
Why do I have to meet these criteria?
A DAB is supposed to help experienced skilled workers with a foreign vocational qualification enter Germany faster. The criteria the ZAB has to check are regulated by law.
Visit Make it in Germany, the German government's website for foreign skilled workers, to find out more:
FAQ
A Statement on a Foreign Vocational Qualification is positive if all three of the following criteria are met:
- The duration of the vocational training was at least 2 full-time school years
- The vocational training was successfully completed
- The vocational training is recognized in the country of training
A Statement on a Foreign Vocational Qualification is negative if not all three criteria are met. You cannot use a negative statement to apply for a residence title. You do not get your fee back if your statement is negative. Make sure that the requirements for a positive statement are met before you apply.
If you are not sure whether your vocational qualification is recognized, please ask the institution you received your qualification from directly.
Why is this important?
We can only issue a positive Statement on a Foreign Vocational Qualification if your vocational qualification is recognized in the country of the vocational training.