Teaching Jobs in Germany in 2025-26: Salary, Requirements, Prospects, and More

The demand for qualified educators is steadily growing, making teaching jobs in Germany in 2025-26 a promising career option for both local and international candidates. Germany’s education system values highly trained teachers, especially in subjects like STEM, foreign languages, and special education. 

With over 800,000 teachers currently employed, projections indicate a steady increase in vacancies due to retirements and expanding school enrollments. In addition to public schools, international and private schools across Germany continue to offer opportunities for native and fluent English-speaking teachers. Let’s explore the key aspects and steps involved in securing teaching jobs in Germany.

Scope of Teaching Jobs in Germany

Teaching remains a stable and in-demand profession in Germany, with a growing need across various education sectors. The rising vacancies and subject-specific gaps offer great opportunities for qualified educators.

• Strong Workforce Demand: Germany’s education system supports over 800,000 teaching professionals, yet many regions are struggling to fill roles, especially in rural and eastern areas.
• High Demand in STEM Subjects: There is a consistent shortage of teachers in STEM fields, making them top priority areas for recruitment.
• Attractive Salary Packages: Teachers in Germany earn an average salary of around EUR 48,500 annually, with variations based on experience, region, and the type of school.
• Notable Vacancy Rates: According to the VBE, there is an average of 1.6 unfilled positions per school, reflecting a national vacancy rate of about 11%, signalling strong hiring potential.
• Opportunities Across School Types: Both general education and vocational schools face shortages, opening doors for teachers with diverse qualifications and specialities to find roles more easily.

Also Read: Best Country To Work For Indian Teachers & Build Careers

Average Salary for Teaching Jobs in Germany

The average salary for teaching jobs in Germany varies depending on the type of school, experience, and region. Here is an overview of the average salary of teachers in Germany.

Quick Read: How To Get Job in Germany From India in 10 Simple Steps

In-Demand Skills Required For Teaching Jobs in Germany

Achieving success in this field necessitates candidates to possess a specific set of highly sought-after skills. These in-demand skills not only enhance an individual's proficiency but also play a pivotal role in placing them in the highest-paid teaching jobs in Germany.

Explore: 14 Things You Should Know Before You Start Working in Germany in 2025

Minimum Requirements To Secure a Teaching Jobs in Germany

Securing a teaching job in Germany involves meeting specific prerequisites tailored to the chosen role. Additionally, prospective educators may need to undergo background checks and submit relevant documentation for verification. These foundational criteria lay the groundwork for a successful teaching career in Germany.

1. Teaching Qualifications: For teaching roles in public schools, you generally need a recognized teaching degree. This degree should align with the subject and age group you wish to teach. If you're looking to teach at the university level, you'll typically need a relevant academic qualification, such as a master's or doctoral degree.
2. Language Proficiency: Proficiency in the German language is often a fundamental requirement, especially for teaching in public schools. Some international or bilingual schools may require English proficiency as well. Language proficiency ensures effective communication with students and colleagues.
3. Work Authorization: Ensure you have the necessary work authorization to teach in Germany. This may involve obtaining a work visa or permit, which can vary based on your nationality and the specific job offer.
4. Teaching Experience: While not always mandatory, having prior teaching experience can significantly enhance your chances of securing a teaching job in Germany, particularly if you're competing for competitive positions.
5. Teacher Certification: Certain teaching roles, especially in language instruction, may require specific certifications. For instance, teaching English may necessitate a TESOL or TEFL certification.
6. Legal Requirements: Adhere to all legal requirements for working in Germany, including background checks and any specific documentation required by the education authorities or the school.

Suggested Reading: How To Apply For Germany Job Seeker Visa in 2025 From India

Work Visa Requirements for Teachers in Germany

To apply for teaching jobs in Germany, you must first secure the appropriate visa and work authorization. Below are the main visa options available for teachers seeking employment in Germany.

• Work Visa (Arbeitsvisum): Ideal for most non-EU applicants, this visa requires a valid job offer from a recognized German school or institution. It permits long-term employment and is commonly used by Indian teachers.
• EU Blue Card: Designed for highly skilled professionals, the EU Blue Card is suitable for teachers with advanced qualifications in high-demand areas like STEM. It allows easier mobility between employers and faster residency options.

How To Apply For Teaching Jobs in Germany?

To pursue teaching opportunities in Germany, the initial step is to find job vacancies in Germany for teaching. This task can be accomplished through a straightforward process, consisting of the following uncomplicated steps. In essence, the first crucial phase entails actively seeking teaching positions within the German job market, a pivotal move for those aspiring to embark on a teaching career in Germany.

Steps to apply For Teaching Jobs in Germany are as follows:

Step 1. Find a job offer with a German employer or school: The first step to moving to Germany as a teacher is to find a job offer. You need an employment contract with a German school or employer to apply for a work permit. It is the employer’s responsibility to apply for a work permit, and the contract is part of the supporting document. 

You can look for a contract through the websites that advertise teaching job positions in Germany. Also, you can move to the country through a job seeker visa or a tourist visa to find a job position. However, you might now have permission to work under these two visas. If you are from a visa-waiver country, you can enter Germany with your passport and look for a job. You don’t need to apply for a visa.

Step 2. Apply for a work permit: The German employer must apply for a work permit. It is mandatory to receive a work permit. When German officials issue the work permit, they agree that the teacher can immigrate to Germany as a teacher.

So prepare the complete list of supporting documents and submit them to the offices to get the work permit.

Step 3. Apply for a work visa: When you get the work permit, the employee must apply for a work visa. You must gather a list of supporting documents and apply to the German embassy in your home country.

You can see the work visa article from the right sidebar to know the list of visa-supporting documents and get familiar with the application in more detail. You must visit the embassy in person, submit the documents to them and wait for visa processing.

Step 4. Move to Germany: Upon obtaining the work visa, you are granted permission to relocate to Germany and commence your employment. However, it is imperative to adhere to legal procedures, and one such requirement is the mandatory registration of your stay with the relevant authorities.

This essential step ensures that you are in compliance with German immigration regulations and allows you to smoothly integrate into your teaching role in the country, safeguarding teaching jobs for foreigners in Germany.

Also Read: 13 Popular Germany Job Seeker Visa Interview Questions

Tips to Apply for Teaching Jobs in Germany

Germany offers diverse teaching opportunities, from public schools and international schools to universities and private institutions. To succeed in your application, understanding the language, qualification standards, and job market is essential. Here are some tips to help you apply for teaching jobs in Germany.

• Meet the Qualifications: Ensure you have a recognized teaching degree and, for public schools, a Zweite Staatsprüfung or equivalent certification. For university or international school roles, a master’s degree and relevant experience are often required.
• Learn the German Language: Most teaching jobs in public schools require at least a B2 or C1 level in German. Even in English-speaking schools, basic German proficiency helps with integration and communication.

• Get Your Qualifications Recognized: Apply for Anerkennung (recognition) of your foreign qualifications through the Zentralstelle für ausländisches Bildungswesen (ZAB). This is mandatory for public school jobs and increases your chances in others.

• Prepare CV and Cover Letter Accordingly: Adapt your application documents to the German format, including a photo, clear structure, and focus on teaching experience and subject expertise.

• Apply Via Regional Portals and Networks: Use portals like Lehrer-Online, Jobbörse der Bundesagentur für Arbeit, and regional education authority sites. Networking with local teachers or expat forums can also lead to job leads and recommendations.

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In summary, teaching is highly favored in Germany, offering excellent career opportunities for individuals with the necessary skills and qualifications. The German job market highly values professionals with advanced knowledge in various fields related to teaching.

GetGIS distinguishes itself as a leading global immigration service platform, specializing in job seeker visa services not only for Germany but also for countries such as Austria, Sweden, and more. Beyond visa assistance, we provide comprehensive support, including guidance in job hunting, improving your resume, post-arrival services, and the dedicated assistance of a relationship manager. Your path to a successful international career begins with us.

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Useful Links:

• Career Opportunities in Germany: Top Jobs, Recruiters & More
• Work Experience Certificate: Formal, Tips, Sample, and More
• Top 10 Highest Paying Jobs in Germany