Guide · AVGS
AVGS voucher: what it is and how to get it
The Activation and Placement Voucher (AVGS) is a form of funding from the German Federal Employment Agency and the Jobcenters. With it, coaching can be free for you. Here you can find out how it works and what to look out for.
What is an AVGS?
With the AVGS, the employment agency or the Jobcenter covers the cost of measures that support you in your job search, for example one-to-one coaching. The legal basis is § 45 SGB III. The voucher is redeemed with a provider whose measure is approved through an AZAV-certified provider.
Who can get an AVGS?
As a rule, you must be registered as unemployed or as a jobseeker with the employment agency or the Jobcenter. If you are still employed but have received notice of dismissal, you register as a jobseeker. The voucher for coaching is a discretionary benefit: your caseworker decides. There is a legal entitlement only to a voucher for private job placement, not to one for coaching.
How to apply for it
- Register as unemployed or as a jobseeker, online, by phone or in person.
- Actively approach your caseworker and ask for an AVGS for one-to-one coaching. The voucher is not issued automatically.
- Briefly explain why the coaching brings you closer to your goal, for example orientation, application documents or job interviews.
- Name the coach you would like to work with and mention that the coaching takes place online.
You can find sample wording for the conversation in the step-by-step guide.
What the voucher should say
- „Einzelcoaching“ (one-to-one coaching) as the type of measure
- Goal and content of the coaching
- Scope: 30 to 60 teaching units of 45 minutes over 8 to 12 weeks is sensible
- „bundesweit“ (nationwide) instead of a restriction to your region, so that online coaching is possible
- Expiry date: the coaching must start before it expires
Check the voucher before you leave the appointment. You can find a checklist to take with you below.
Common pitfalls
- Starting too early: costs are not covered retroactively. Only start after written approval.
- Region too narrow: if only your region is on the voucher, an online coach from another region is difficult.
- Voucher expired: it is valid at most as long as your integration agreement or your entitlement to unemployment benefit.
- Not asking: the AVGS does not come by itself. If you don't bring it up, you usually won't get it.
AVGS coaching at Alizee Institute
My coaching is AVGS-eligible through an AZAV-certified provider. I take care of the provider. The coaching takes place online, in German, English, Spanish or French, for PhDs, people who are new to Germany and IT professionals.
Check your chances
In a few minutes and anonymously, the AVGS check gives you a first assessment of how good your conditions are:
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 about the AVGS
Does AVGS coaching cost me anything?
No. With an approved voucher, the employment agency or Jobcenter covers the cost in full.
Does the agency have to give me an AVGS for coaching?
No, the voucher for coaching is a discretionary benefit. Your caseworker decides. With a clear justification, your chances are better.
Can I use the AVGS for online coaching?
Yes, if the voucher says „bundesweit“ (nationwide). Ask your caseworker for this explicitly.
Can I choose the coach myself?
Yes. You can tell your caseworker which coach you would like to work with.