Why expats in Germany are making the career change to cybersecurity

Most people have no idea what cybersecurity really means. Everything they know is from the movies, how hackers take over systems to steal data, take control of surveillance cameras, or crash websites.

The truth is, it spans a wide range of disciplines: from software and coding to hardware, from IT to cloud infrastructure, and even from compliance to consulting. Cybersecurity touches nearly every area of technology, all united by a single goal: protecting our digital environment.

For expats in Germany considering a new career path, cybersecurity presents a unique and promising opportunity. Not only is it a field in high demand, but it's also incredibly diverse and accessible to career changers, especially those eligible for full government funding through the Bildungsgutschein programme.

Working in cybersecurity

One of the most misunderstood aspects of cybersecurity is the work itself. Many assume it's only for highly technical individuals or people who started hacking websites when they were six years old, but in reality, it encompasses a broad spectrum of roles.

Some positions are deeply technical, involving tasks like penetration testing (hacking!) or network security. Others focus more on compliance, consulting or project management. Some roles are fast-paced and high-pressure, while others offer more routine and flexibility.

Cybersecurity can be a great fit whether you prefer working solo or as part of a team, whether you're detail-oriented or more strategic. It's one of the few tech sectors where you can truly find a niche that matches your interests and strengths.

Why cybersecurity is still growing when the tech market is struggling

We all know the past year hasn’t been great for juniors training to enter tech, with the COVID-19 tech boom over and companies hiring more conservatively. However, in this market, cybersecurity is still growing due to several global and local factors:

• Geopolitical tensions like the Russia-Ukraine war and US-China rivalries have spurred massive investments in defence across Europe, with cybersecurity playing a crucial role in both government and private organisations.
• Artificial intelligence is enabling more sophisticated cyberattacks, increasing both the frequency and severity of threats.
• Germany's digital transformation is finally gaining momentum, creating a surge in digital systems and a corresponding need to protect them.

A smart choice for career changers

In tech fields like UI/UX, data analytics or web development, you're often trained for a single job. Cybersecurity, however, opens the door to a wide variety of roles. Whether you're more technical, more people-oriented, or somewhere in between, there's a role for you. This makes it ideal for career changers who want flexibility and choice.

What's more, the path to cybersecurity isn't rigid. Because many universities and vocational training programs (Ausbildungen) in Germany don't adequately prepare students for cybersecurity roles, there's an industry-wide openness to alternative paths, as long as you have the right skills.

And unlike some tech roles that might be replaced by AI in the coming years, cybersecurity remains relatively resilient. After all, someone has to secure the AI.

Fully funded training with a Bildungsgutschein

Here's where things get especially interesting for expats who are unemployed or at risk of unemployment in Germany. The German government offers a programme called the Bildungsgutschein (education voucher), which fully funds certified training programmes aimed at helping people get back into work.

To qualify, you need to:

• Be a resident of Germany
• Have worked in Germany previously
• Be unemployed or at risk of unemployment & registered with the Agentur für Arbeit or Jobcenter

Your caseworker at the Jobcenter or Agentur für Arbeit will decide whether to approve your Bildungsgutschein based on your personal background and the job prospects in your chosen field. Thanks to its strong and consistent demand, cybersecurity is viewed favourably.

However, it’s still important to clearly explain why this career path suits you and how the training will help you find employment. A well-prepared case can significantly improve your chances of approval.

Who is eligible - and who isn’t

Unfortunately, not everyone qualifies. If you're a student, currently employed, or on a temporary visa as a recent arrival, the programme may not be an option for you. But for many expats who have lost jobs or are facing employment uncertainty, this could be the perfect path forward.

Why does the German government pay for cybersecurity training?

It's a win-win. Getting people into stable, in-demand jobs like cybersecurity reduces the need for unemployment benefits and increases tax revenue. It's a smart investment from the government's perspective, and it creates a pathway for individuals to regain financial independence and long-term career growth while helping grow the German economy.

Cybersecurity isn’t just a job; it's a field filled with purpose, variety, and long-term potential. For expats in Germany navigating career changes, it could be the opportunity you didn’t know you were looking for.