If you’re dreaming of teaching in Germany, you’ll be glad to know that salaries for teachers range between €39000 and €70000 per year, depending on whether you’re in primary, secondary, or international schools.
Most positions require at least two years of professional teaching experience, and you’ll find opportunities for both full-time classroom roles and increasingly popular online/remote teaching jobs. Whether you prefer the structured environment of a government school or the flexibility of part-time or digital classrooms, Germany offers a variety of options for educators ready to take the next step in their careers.
Role of Teacher in Germany:
Teachers (or classroom educators) in Germany are responsible for guiding students through the national curriculum and supporting their overall growth. Their duties include:
- Preparing lessons that match learning objectives
- Managing classroom behavior and engagement
- Providing feedback to students and parents
- Assigning and grading homework and tests
- Creating an inclusive learning environment where all students feel challenged but supported
Requirements:
Foreign teachers must usually have their qualifications recognized in Germany by the relevant education authority. Common requirements include:
- Bachelor’s degree (or higher) in Education or a relevant subject
- At least 2 years of professional teaching experience
- Ability to create lesson plans and adapt to different learning needs
- Strong communication and presentation skills
- Knowledge of teaching methods and student psychology
- Good organizational and classroom management skills
- Proficiency in German (B2 level or higher for public schools; English is acceptable in many international schools)
Responsibilities:
If hired, teachers in Germany can expect responsibilities such as:
- Preparing lessons and setting clear objectives
- Adapting teaching methods to suit different students
- Encouraging career exploration and critical thinking
- Assessing students through tests, projects, and assignments
- Providing one-on-one support when needed
- Holding regular parent–teacher meetings
- Maintaining a safe, respectful, and inclusive classroom
- Tracking academic progress and reporting results
Government Teaching Jobs:
Government teaching jobs remain highly sought-after because of their stability, attractive benefits, and career growth opportunities. These roles often include pensions, medical coverage, and structured pay scales, making them a secure choice for long-term career planning.
High School Teaching Jobs:
High school teaching vacancies are perfect for professionals passionate about shaping young minds during a critical learning stage. From mathematics and science to arts and languages, schools regularly recruit qualified teachers to inspire students and prepare them for higher education.
Primary School Teaching Jobs:
If you enjoy working with younger children, primary school teaching jobs can be incredibly fulfilling. These roles focus on building strong foundations in literacy, numeracy, and creativity, while also fostering curiosity and social skills in a child’s early years.
Part-Time Teaching Jobs:
Part-time teaching vacancies offer flexibility for professionals balancing other commitments. Many schools and institutions provide part-time opportunities, allowing teachers to pursue further studies, manage family responsibilities, or explore other careers alongside teaching.
Online Teaching Jobs:
With the rise of digital learning, online teaching jobs are in high demand globally. Educators can now teach students from anywhere in the world, covering subjects like English, STEM, or test preparation. These roles provide flexibility, global exposure, and the ability to work from home.
International Teaching Jobs:
For those seeking adventure and cultural exchange, international teaching jobs are an exciting option. Schools abroad often look for qualified teachers to bring global perspectives into their classrooms. These positions not only offer competitive salaries but also the chance to live and work in new countries.
Check Also: Visa Sponsorship Jobs in Germany for Foreigners
Benefits:
Apart from salary, teachers enjoy the same social benefits as other employees in Germany, such as:
- Competitive Salary
Teachers in Germany earn well compared to many countries. Salaries range between €39000 and €70000 annually, depending on school type and experience. - Visa Sponsorship Support
Many schools, especially international and shortage-area institutions, offer full visa sponsorship to help qualified foreign teachers relocate smoothly. - Comprehensive Health Insurance
All employees in Germany are covered by mandatory health insurance, with premiums split equally between employer and employee. - Strong Pension Contributions
Both teachers and employers contribute to Germany’s public pension system, ensuring long-term financial security after retirement. - Generous Paid Leave
Teachers typically enjoy 30–42 days of paid vacation per year, along with public holidays, making work–life balance easier to maintain. - Parental and Family Leave
Parents can take up to 3 years of parental leave, with paid maternity leave before and after childbirth, plus protections against dismissal during this period. - Job Security
Public school teachers, once fully recognized, often gain permanent civil servant status (Beamter), which provides unmatched job stability. - Professional Growth Opportunities
Germany encourages continuous professional development, offering training and advancement opportunities for teachers to upgrade their skills. - International Exposure
With diverse classrooms and multicultural students, teachers in Germany gain global experience that strengthens their career profile.
Salary:
Salaries vary depending on state, school type, and experience. On average:
- Primary school teachers: €39000 – €55000 annually
- Secondary school teachers: €50000 – €70000 annually
- International/private schools: Often pay on the higher end of the scale
According to recent surveys, the average salary for a primary school teacher in Germany is around €55331 per year (€27 per hour).
How to Apply for Teaching Jobs in Germany with Visa Sponsorship 2025?
- Research vacancies on official sites such as:
- Make It in Germany (official government portal)
- EURES Job Portal
- International school job boards
- Prepare your documents:
- Updated CV/resume (in English or German, depending on the school)
- Degree and certification documents (recognized in Germany)
- Language proficiency proof (German or English)
- Cover letter (if requested)
- Apply online: Submit through school websites or job portals. Avoid copy-pasting your CV text into forms upload properly formatted files.
- Visa sponsorship: Once you secure a job, the employer can support your application for a Skilled Worker Visa or EU Blue Card, provided your degree is recognized and you meet the salary threshold.
Conclusion:
Teaching in Germany with visa sponsorship in 2025 offers competitive salaries, strong job security, and excellent benefits for qualified educators. Whether in primary, secondary, or international schools, opportunities exist for both in-person and online roles. With recognized qualifications and the right visa, foreign teachers can build rewarding careers in one of Europe’s leading education systems.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Do German schools sponsor visas for teachers?
Yes. Many public schools in shortage areas and international schools offer visa sponsorship if you meet the qualifications and language requirements.
Do I need to speak German to teach in Germany?
For public schools, German proficiency is required (at least B2 level). However, many international and private schools in major cities (Berlin, Frankfurt, Munich, Hamburg) hire English-speaking teachers, especially for subjects like math, science, and English.
Can foreigners teach in Germany?
Yes. Foreigners can teach in Germany if their qualifications are recognized by German education authorities. You may also need German language proficiency (B2 or higher) unless applying to an international or bilingual school where English is the main language of instruction.
