For internationals & expats in Germany
AVGS career coaching in English – free for internationals in Germany with an approved AVGS
You moved to Germany and you are looking for work or a new role – but German isn't your strong suit yet? Career coaching in English helps you navigate the German job market: from application documents that meet German standards to dealing with the employment agency. And with an approved AVGS voucher it is free for you.
Is there career coaching in English that the employment agency pays for?
Yes. With an approved AVGS, the Agentur für Arbeit or the Jobcenter covers the cost of one-to-one coaching, and that coaching can take place in English. The money does not go to the coach directly but to an AZAV-certified provider through which the coaching runs. Whether you get the voucher is decided by your caseworker.
Why the German job market is different for internationals
- Application documents: a complete, gap-free CV plus a cover letter, which is unusual in many countries. A photo is common but optional; leaving it out is a legitimate choice, as a photo can increase the risk of discrimination.
- Recognising degrees & experience: positioning foreign qualifications correctly so they are understood here.
- Authorities in German: the employment agency and Jobcenter mostly communicate in German, which puts many people off.
Who this coaching is for
- International professionals and expats who want to live and work in Germany
- People who don't yet speak German confidently and prefer coaching in English
- Immigrant academics and skilled workers transitioning into the German job market
- International partners of skilled workers who want to establish themselves professionally here
What we work on together
- Application documents to German standards: a CV and cover letter that actually work here.
- Positioning: presenting your international experience as a strength, not a hurdle.
- Application strategy: finding the right employers and roles, including English-speaking jobs, via job boards, company websites and contacts.
- Interviews: convincing with the STAR method, in English or German.
- Navigating the authorities: support in dealing with the employment agency and Jobcenter.
Why coaching in English with a multilingual coach
Free for you if your AVGS is approved: 100% funded
If you are registered with the employment agency or the Jobcenter, you can receive an Activation and Placement Voucher (AVGS) – which makes the coaching 100% funded and free for you (legal basis: § 45 SGB III). You do not need perfect German for this. Check anonymously in a few minutes whether an AVGS applies to you:
Take along to your appointment
- Checklist: your way to AVGS coaching (PDF, all steps to tick off)
- Handout: what your voucher should say (PDF, with all deadlines)
- Info sheet: coaching vs. consulting (PDF, the difference explained briefly)
All three in 8 languages – English on page 2 of each file.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to speak good German to use the AVGS?
No. The coaching takes place in English (or German, Spanish, French). Many coaches offer their services in English – you do not need perfect German to apply for and use an AVGS.
Is the coaching really free?
Yes, if you receive an AVGS. The employment agency or Jobcenter then covers the cost in full. Check your chances in advance with the free AVGS check.
How do I get the voucher?
Talk to your advisor at the employment agency or Jobcenter and say that you would like an AVGS for coaching. We support you with the entire application.
Does the coaching take place online?
Yes, fully online via video. This means you can take part from anywhere in Germany and choose your coach by fit – not by where you live.
In which languages is the coaching available?
In English, German, Spanish and French.