Working as a Painter and Varnisher (Maler/in und Lackierer/in) in Germany

Painters and varnishers work on homes, public buildings and commercial properties. They apply coatings, wallpapers, protective systems and façade finishes, often as part of renovation and energy-efficiency projects.

What the job involves

• Prepare walls and façades
• Apply paint, coatings and wallpaper
• Repair plaster and surface defects
• Install simple insulation and protection systems
• Advise customers on materials and colours

Requirements

• Painting or finishing qualification
• Careful surface preparation skills
• German B1 for customer contact
• Knowledge of materials and safety
• Portfolio/references helpful

Recognition of your qualification

The employee occupation is generally non-regulated, but foreign vocational equivalence is normally needed for skilled-worker residence under §18a.

German you'll need

This role typically expects around B1. German is essential for daily work.

What you can earn

Indicative gross monthly pay — varies by region, employer and collective agreements.

Possible routes to Germany

Depending on your situation, these routes may apply:

• Skilled Worker with vocational training (§18a) after recognition/equivalence
• Recognition Partnership (§16d AufenthG)
• Vocational training visa (§16a)
• Opportunity Card / Chancenkarte (§20a, points)

Typical employers

• Painting craft firms
• Façade renovation companies
• Housing maintenance providers
• Restoration and refurbishment contractors
• Facility management companies

Outlook

Demand is steady in renovation and maintenance, although pay and regional demand vary more than in core infrastructure trades. Some tools improve productivity but do not replace on-site finishing work.

Your next steps

• Check whether your training is formal and comparable
• Prepare photos and references of completed work
• Apply to renovation, façade and maintenance firms
• Improve German for customer communication
• Use Ausbildung if your background is mostly informal

Sources

Federal Employment Agency Fachkräfteengpassanalyse · Make-it-in-Germany · Anerkennung in Deutschland

General information, as of 2025. DeutschBound provides orientation and German-language training — not legal advice, visa application services or job guarantees. Always confirm current requirements with the official sources above.