Are you new to Germany and looking for ways to advance your career? The Activation and Placement Voucher (Aktivierungs- und Vermittlungsgutschein, AVGS) could be just what you need. In this post, you'll learn what the AVGS is and how it can help you.

What is the Activation and Placement Voucher (AVGS)?

The AVGS is a voucher you can obtain from the Federal Employment Agency (Agentur für Arbeit) or the Jobcenter. With this voucher, you can attend coaching sessions with private providers free of charge to help you find a job. These sessions can focus on identifying what you enjoy doing professionally and what you are particularly good at.

In the next step, you'll explore which jobs, industries, or employers align with your interests and skills. You'll also learn how to apply for such positions in Germany. Some providers even have networks of employers to whom they can directly recommend you. Additionally, you can get support with the recognition of your degrees or vocational qualifications from your home country.

Sometimes personal challenges make it difficult to focus on job hunting. Some providers offer assistance in these situations by connecting you with organizations specialized in your circumstances and guiding you through the “bureaucratic jungle.”

Who is eligible for the AVGS?

The AVGS is available to individuals who are unemployed or at risk of unemployment. This means you must be registered with the Federal Employment Agency or the Jobcenter.

The AVGS is a discretionary benefit, meaning your caseworker is not obligated to issue one. Usually, your caseworker will discuss where you need help in your job search and then decide if the AVGS is the right support for you. Most caseworkers are happy when someone takes the initiative and actively requests support like the AVGS.

How do you apply for the AVGS?

Applying for the AVGS is quite simple. Here’s a quick guide:

Start by looking for a provider that matches your preferences. If your German skills are limited, it can be helpful to choose a provider who offers coaching in your native language or a foreign language you are comfortable with. The provider will give you informational material that you can take to your Jobcenter or the Federal Employment Agency to apply for the AVGS.

Alternatively, zou can also start by asking your caseworker at the Jobcenter or Federal Employment Agency for the AVGS and then look for a provider.

How do you find a provider?

The Federal Employment Agency offers a tool where all AVGS services are listed: 🔍 Federal Employment Agency

Here, select “Introduction to the Training and Job Market” (Heranführung an den Ausbildungs- und Arbeitsmarkt) and search for options that interest you. The range of offerings is vast, which can make it challenging to get an overview. You can also ask your caseworker at the Jobcenter or Federal Employment Agency for recommendations.

Another option is to ask friends or acquaintances who have had positive experiences with a provider. Check with your network to see if anyone has recommendations.

What happens next?

TOnce you receive an AVGS, schedule an appointment with the provider you have chosen. The provider will record your details and send a so-called “provider certificate” back to the Jobcenter or Federal Employment Agency. Your caseworker will then review whether this AVGS measure is a good fit for you. If approved, the provider will receive authorization, and you will be invited for an initial consultation—then the process can begin.

In our blog posts, we do not use gender-inclusive language to make them easier to read for non-native German speaking readers. Of course, all genders are included, as diversity and inclusion are important to us.