How Expats in Germany Can Change Jobs or Prepare for Unemployment: Your Guide to Free Coaching & Career Security

Navigating Job Change or Unemployment as an Expat in Germany

If you’re an expat in Germany and thinking about switching jobs or worried about losing your current one, it’s common to feel unsure about what comes next. You might have questions about paperwork, language, or how your visa might be affected. It’s easy to feel lost, especially if German bureaucracy is new to you or your support network is small. The good news is that Germany offers help and many resources—often for free—even for those who are still working but see changes ahead.

Who Can Get Free Career Coaching in Germany?

Free career coaching isn’t just for people who are already unemployed. Germany’s system encourages you to take action early, so you may qualify for coaching even if you’re still in your job.

It’s Best to Act Early

If you know your contract will end, your company is restructuring, or you’re unhappy at work, don’t wait until you’re unemployed. Getting support early can help you find a new job faster and reduce stress.

Who Qualifies?

• Unemployed: You’ve lost your job and are registered as unemployed with the Agentur für Arbeit or Jobcenter.

• Soon-to-be-unemployed: You’ve been told your contract will end or you know your job is ending soon.

• Employed but at risk: You have evidence your job might not last—like company downsizing or instability.

• Employed but looking for a change: In some cases, if you have good reasons (like health or a skills mismatch), you can get support even if you’re still working.

Common Myths

Many people think you can only get help if you’re already unemployed. In reality, German authorities want people to manage their careers before problems happen. If you have a valid work permit and are registered with the right office, you can get support—no matter your nationality. You don’t need perfect German; more services are available in English or with translation help

How to Get Started: Steps for Free Job Coaching

Where to Apply
Go to your local Agentur für Arbeit (Federal Employment Agency) or Jobcenter. They handle job services and give out vouchers for coaching (called Aktivierungs- und Vermittlungsgutschein, or AVGS).

What You Need to Bring

• Passport or ID

• Residence permit (if needed)

• Your latest job contract or termination notice

• Your CV or job history

• Registration certificate (Meldebescheinigung)

• Any evidence your job is at risk (if you’re still employed)

When to Start
Start as soon as you know or even assume your job might end or you get a termination notice. Don’t wait until your last day—early registration gives you more time and options.

Step-by-Step Process

1. Register with the Agentur für Arbeit or Jobcenter: Make an appointment online or in person.

2. Explain your situation: Say if you’re unemployed, about to be, or worried about your job.

3. Ask for the AVGS voucher: This lets you get free career coaching. More info on how to ask for it so that you have the highest chance of getting it approved in the free guide (download here)

4. Pick a coaching provider: You can pick your own coach. Look for English-speaking coaches with experience helping expats. Discover how “Get the Job You Want” by Jenia Korenkova helps high-level professionals and executives find their ideal, fulfilling roles in Germany. Learn about the unique 7-step coaching program, fully AVGS voucher funded, that guides expats toward meaningful, joyful careers—no matter how impossible it may seem.

5. Start coaching: Topics can include career planning, CV help, job search strategies, and interview practice.

Why Free Coaching Helps Expats

Free coaching through “Get the Job You Want” by Jenia Korenkova is designed specifically for international professionals in Germany who feel lost, frustrated, or stuck—whether they're between roles or unhappy where they are. This program recognizes that, especially at senior levels, career challenges go beyond just finding the next job: it’s about rediscovering purpose, understanding what truly brings fulfillment, and rebuilding confidence after setbacks or disappointments.

What This Program Offers Experienced Professionals

• Career Rediscovery: Work with a fellow executive as a coach who understands the unique struggles of seasoned leaders. Explore what really matters to you and clarify which roles, industries, or environments will reignite your motivation.

• Strategic Tools: Get bespoke advice on repositioning your experience; your international achievements and leadership are reframed as assets—not obstacles—in the German market.

• Job Market Navigation: Receive insider tips on the hidden job market, executive networking, and how to approach influential decision-makers, going beyond standard application channels.

• Confidence & Clarity: Through guided reflection and practical exercises, regain confidence in your value and decision-making, even if traditional career paths feel closed off or unappealing.

• Personalized Support: Tackle self-doubt, burnout, or uncertainty in a confidential setting, with coaching that addresses both emotional setbacks and strategic next steps.

By meeting seasoned expats exactly where they are, “Get the Job You Want” helps you move forward—no matter how stuck or uncertain you feel—and reimagine what’s possible in your journey in Germany.

Can You Get Support While Still Employed?

Yes—you don’t have to wait until you’re out of work. In fact, it’s better to start early. Acting now gives you more options and less pressure.

Why Start Now?

• No gaps in employment: You can find a new job before your current one ends.

• Less stress: Knowing your options makes things less overwhelming.

• Stronger negotiation: You may be able to discuss better terms if you’re prepared.

• More services available: Some help is only open to people who start before they’re unemployed.

How This Helps Your Career
Expats who take early action often get better jobs, higher pay, and even chances to train for new skills. Coaching helps you make a plan, grow your network, and feel confident about your next steps.

Master the Coaching Voucher Application Process: Download Your Complete AVGS Voucher Guide

Getting approved for the AVGS voucher is where most people fail. The reality is that budget cuts have made rejections increasingly common, and most expats are applying completely wrong.

We’ve put together a detailed PDF guide for expats facing job changes or unemployment in Germany. In it, you’ll find:

• Complete Registration Walkthrough - Step-by-step screenshots showing exactly how to create your profile on the Arbeitsagentur website (most people get stuck right here!)

• The Job Applications Documentation Strategy - How to create and present a tracking spreadsheet that convinces case workers you're serious about finding work

• Skills Gap Analysis Method - The specific process for analyzing 100+ job ads to identify and document gaps between your background and German job requirements

• Document Package Creation - What to include in your written application to the case worker and how to present your case for maximum impact

• Communication Scripts - Exactly what to say (and not say) when talking to your case worker to build the right relationship

• Rejection Recovery Process - Your legal rights when denied, how to file an appeal ("Widerspruch"), and what evidence to gather for your next attempt

• Coach Assignment Rights - What to do if they assign you a coach you don't want and how to request a different coaching program

The bottom line: Knowing you're eligible is just the beginning. This guide shows you the exact application process, documentation requirements, and relationship-building strategies that actually get approvals in today's competitive environment.

Secure Your Future in Germany

Losing your job or switching careers in Germany doesn’t have to be scary. With strong legal protection, free coaching, and plenty of support—much of it in English—you can make this change with confidence. Acting early, knowing your rights, and using the help available will give you the best chance at a new start or a smoother transition.