Working as a Teacher for German as a Second Language (DaZ-Lehrkraft) in Germany
DaZ teachers help learners acquire German for school, training, work and everyday life. Access can be easier in private language schools than in state schools, but BAMF-funded integration courses and public schools have formal qualification rules.
What the job involves
- Teach German grammar and vocabulary
- Prepare learners for language exams
- Support school integration or vocational language
- Assess language levels
- Create learner-specific materials
Requirements
- German C1 or higher
- DaF/DaZ or language-teaching qualification
- Teaching experience
- For BAMF courses: provider-specific or BAMF approval requirements
German you'll need
This role typically expects around C1. Some employers start in English, but German is needed for everyday work.
What you can earn
| Entry level | €2,700–€3,800 / month (gross) |
| Experienced | €3,600–€5,000 / month (gross) |
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 academic degree (§18b) if degree and job match
- EU Blue Card (§18b, academic + salary threshold) for eligible academic teaching posts
- Study visa (§16b) for DaF/DaZ qualification
- Opportunity Card / Chancenkarte (§20a, points)
Typical employers
- Adult education centres (Volkshochschulen)
- Private language schools
- BAMF integration-course providers
- Schools with preparatory classes
- Vocational language-course providers
Outlook
Migration and integration needs support demand, but funding cycles and regional pupil numbers can fluctuate. AI tools may help practice but not replace qualified language teaching and assessment.
Your next steps
- Check whether the target job is in schools, BAMF courses or private teaching
- Obtain or document DaF/DaZ teaching qualification
- Prepare proof of German C1/C2
- Apply to language-course providers and schools
Not sure this path fits you?
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Check your pathway Learn German →Sources
Make-it-in-Germany professions in demand · BAMF integration courses · 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.