Opportunities and Challenges of Working in Germany under the 18B Visa: A Perspective from Career Changers

A Realistic Perspective: Working in Germany under the 18B Visa – Opportunities and Challenges

Germany is a developed country with a high demand for labor in many industries, especially in sectors such as kitchens, restaurants, hotels, and services. Under the 18B visa, workers from Vietnam, even without a specialized degree, still have the opportunity to work in Germany. However, working outside your field can bring many difficulties and challenges, especially if you do not have sufficient skills. Below is a real-life perspective from a Vietnamese worker who has worked in Germany under the 18B visa, sharing both the benefits and challenges, and most importantly, emphasizing the importance of proper vocational training before going to Germany to avoid unnecessary problems.

Opportunities when working in Germany under the 18B visa

Professional working environment

When working in the kitchen industry in Germany, you will immediately experience a highly professional and standardized work environment. Every step is carried out according to strict procedures, from ingredient preparation and cooking to customer service. This helps you understand that to succeed in such an environment, you not only need skills but also the ability to work systematically, follow regulations, and maintain a high level of focus.

High income and career development opportunities

Even if you work outside your field, jobs in Germany still offer stable and significantly higher income compared to similar positions in Vietnam. This is an undeniable financial advantage. However, career development is not only about salary but also about the opportunity to learn and improve your skills. Germany has a highly developed vocational training system, and working here allows you to gain exposure to new cooking techniques as well as effective work organization methods.

Challenges and difficulties when working in Germany

Lack of skills and initial confusion

However, one of the biggest challenges you may face when working in Germany is the lack of practical skills. Before going abroad, you may have attended culinary courses in Vietnam but not yet mastered the basic techniques. When working in a restaurant, you will realize that kitchen work requires speed, precision, and the ability to work under pressure. This can make it difficult to meet job expectations. Although you can learn from colleagues, lack of experience will still put you in many challenging situations.

Work pressure and strict requirements

Jobs in Germany require you to work quickly and accurately. Cooking is not just about preparing meals but also about time management, ingredient preparation, and maintaining consistent quality under all conditions. This demands strong professional skills—you cannot simply “learn on the job” without preparation. As a result, insufficient skills can create pressure and make you worry about not meeting expectations during the probation period.

Cultural differences and communication challenges

In addition to professional skills, communication can also be a challenge. Germans value precision and efficiency, which is reflected in their focus and minimal conversation during working hours. However, lacking fluency in German or at least English can make it difficult to communicate effectively at work, especially in team-based environments.

Advice for workers planning to go to Germany under the 18B visa

Learn and master your profession before going

Based on the real challenges mentioned above, proper vocational training before going to Germany is extremely important. If you plan to work in the kitchen industry, make sure you have mastered basic skills such as cutting, cooking, food preparation, and using professional kitchen equipment. This will not only help you adapt more easily but also create a positive impression on employers. Without sufficient skills, you may struggle to complete tasks and even risk losing your job.

Learn basic German before departure

In addition to professional skills, learning basic German is essential. Language is the key to effective communication both at work and in daily life. Although you may initially use English, German is still a requirement in most workplaces. Therefore, you should aim to achieve at least a basic level of German before arriving.

Understand German work culture

Before going, it is important to understand the German working culture, especially in the kitchen industry. Professionalism, punctuality, precision, and discipline are key factors for success. Understanding these values will help you adapt quickly and avoid culture shock.

Choose a reputable company

Finally, choosing a reliable agency is crucial. Make sure the company you work with is trustworthy and committed to protecting your rights. This will help you avoid risks related to contracts and potential issues during your time working in Germany.

Conclusion

Working in Germany under the 18B visa is a great opportunity to develop your career and improve your quality of life. However, to succeed, you must be well prepared in terms of skills, language, and understanding of the working environment. Do not let a lack of preparation become a barrier preventing you from stepping into a new life full of opportunities in Germany.