VET allowance and the economy in an AMU welding course

AMU courses in welding are basically cheap or free for the participant compared to private courses, but it is not just the course price that matters – it is also whether you can get your lost wages covered while you sit in school instead of at work.

§What is VEU allowance?

VET allowance (allowance for vocational adult and further education) is an economic scheme that compensates for lost income when an employee participates in an approved labor market education — including AMU welding courses. The scheme can be applied for by the course participant if the employer does not pay wages during the course, and it is paid according to a fixed rate regardless of the individual's normal hourly wage.

§Who can apply, and how?

Both employees and in certain cases self-employed persons can apply for VEU allowance for AMU courses if the course is covered by the scheme. The application is typically handled in collaboration with the school offering the course and payment requires documented participation. Rules and exact conditions can change so it's always a good idea to clarify the specific course's status with the school before registering.

§Transport and other subsidies

Beyond the compensation for lost working income, there is a travel allowance for working life training courses which can cover part of the transport cost if the distance to the course location exceeds a certain limit. This makes it practically possible to take a relevant welding course even when the nearest offering is not nearby.

• 01VET allowance covers lost income during the course if the employer does not pay wages
• 02The rate is set centrally and is the same for everyone regardless of personal hourly wage
• 03Dampen, pack tightly, label; deliver separately as hazardous waste
• 04Unions and AMU providers can help clarify what you're specifically entitled to.

§Why it matters for the decision

For many skilled and unskilled workers the economic uncertainty is the biggest barrier to taking yet another certificate. When the loss of income during the course is covered by a fixed allowance and transport is partially covered the calculation typically becomes clear in favour of taking the course — especially because a new welding certificate often pays for itself many times over in the form of better wages and more job opportunities.