Funding for the Recognition of Professional Qualifications Acquired Abroad and for Skilled Worker Potential in Vocational Training (Scholarship Program)

This funding program is aimed at individuals living in Hamburg whose professional qualifications acquired abroad are to be recognized, as well as part-time trainees or those who do not receive other federal funding. The goal is integration into the Hamburg labor market and meeting the demand for skilled workers.

The program supports costs for the recognition of foreign professional qualifications, including translations, fees, and compensatory measures. Additionally, vocational training, especially part-time training, and its costs such as course fees, childcare, and livelihood support are funded.

Funding is provided in the form of scholarships, one-time grants, and interest-free loans. The amount of support depends on income and marital status, with scholarships based on BAföG rates. The maximum funding for grants is €4,000 and for loans up to €10,000.

The funding is subordinate to other federal or state funding. Applications must generally be submitted before the start of the project. Specific income and asset limits apply, as well as the obligation to cooperate in success monitoring.

Depending on the funding purpose, applications are submitted either via the Diakonisches Werk Hamburg (for recognition procedures) or directly to the Hamburgische Investitions- und Förderbank (IFB Hamburg) (for vocational training). Various proofs of identity, income, assets, and other funding exclusions must be submitted.

The scholarship program is based on a guideline from the Hamburg Social Authority dated December 15, 2023, and further budgetary and social law provisions. The official announcement was made in the Official Gazette of the Free and Hanseatic City of Hamburg.