Work is changing, often faster than people's original training. Software replaces routines, new requirements appear. So that employees do not have to become unemployed before they can get training, there is funding under section 82 SGB III, known as the Qualification Opportunities Act (Qualifizierungschancengesetz).
The requirements
- You are employed and subject to social insurance.
- The training teaches skills that go beyond short-term adjustment at the workplace.
- It lasts more than 120 hours.
- Provider and course are approved under AZAV.
- You have not had comparable funding in recent years that would rule it out.
What the approval means is explained in AZAV approval explained.
Who pays what?
The employment agency can cover the course fees fully or partly, and the employer can receive wage subsidies while you attend the course. The employer's share depends mainly on company size: small companies are relieved more than large ones.
How to proceed
- Choose a course that fits your job and where your company is heading.
- Talk to your employer and show the benefit for the company.
- Involve the employment agency, through its employer service or career guidance for working people.
- Receive the education voucher and hand it to the provider before the course starts.
Many courses in the course finder are available part-time or online, which is easier to combine with work.
Häufige Fragen
Do I need my employer's consent?
In practice yes, because the training usually takes place during working hours and the employer contributes to the costs. Many employers are open to it if the benefit for the company is clear.
How much does my employer pay?
That depends on company size and other factors. Small companies are relieved more than large ones. The employment agency sets the exact shares; its employer service advises on this.
Does this apply to part-time employees?
Yes. What counts are the requirements of section 82 SGB III, not the hours you work. Get advice for your individual case.
Quellen
Die Rechtsgrundlagen und offiziellen Stellen, auf die sich dieser Beitrag stützt. Links zuletzt geprüft am .
- Section 82 SGB III: Funding for employeesFederal Ministry of Justice, gesetze-im-internet.de (German)
- Funding further training for employeesFederal Employment Agency (German)
Hinweis: Diese Informationen dienen der Orientierung und sind keine Rechtsberatung. Ob Sie gefördert werden, entscheidet Ihre Arbeitsagentur oder Ihr Jobcenter im Einzelfall. Stand: 06.11.2026.