I can give some advise on this topic, especially in regards to Germany. I am in the same boat. I am in the process of relocating to Germany, and I want to work in the bicycle industry, but i dont have any official qualifications. I had the same concerns, and i went to a few bike shops to enquire. There is a huge demand for bike mechanics in Europe, but not enough labour. If you have the following documents in place, then you should be able to find something in Germany, or Europe. Firstly you will have to apply for a work permit, or have the relevant visa/ passport in order to work legally in Europe. Secondly you need to make sure that your health insurance covers you for accident and injury in the work place, as this is a requirement. The Germans are crazy about insurance. LOL. Many places will take you on as an apprentice/ junior mechanic but you should look for the cities in Germany that have many internationals/ foreign nationals, or international universities/international programs that attract english speaking people to that city. If you work in a smaller city, where not much english is spoken, then you may find it difficult to get in, because they would prefer someone who speaks the local language. That is a big disadvantage, however if you are in a city that has a large population of foreign nationals/ international students etc. then it might be easier for you to fit in, and convince the bike shop owner/manager that your english is an asset to the company. I am back in Cape Town until October-November. I live in Green point. If you need any more pointers please reach out to me. I am also looking for a temporary part-time job at any local bike shop close to city centre. I am not qualified as a bike mechanic, but I believe I can do many of the basic things a junior mechanic can do, and I also have a ton of sale expereince. Jack of all trades, lol... Please email me, or message me. jamiedouglasholloway@gmail.com/ +27658439066.
