Who it fits
- Anyone whose vocational or academic qualification has not yet been assessed in Germany
- People holding a partial recognition (Defizitbescheid) who need to close the gap
- Anyone who wants to know what their qualification is worth before approaching employers
What is usually required
- Certified translations of the diploma, transcript and proof of work experience.
- An application to the competent body — which one depends on the profession and the federal state.
- Where a gap is found, an adaptation course or a knowledge exam.
- A § 16d permit for the recognition period, which allows limited work.
The route, step by step
- Establish whether the profession is regulated and which authority is competent.
- Gather and translate the documents, then file the application.
- Raise your German while the decision is pending.
- Close any gap through the adaptation course or the exam.
- Move to a work permit once recognition is complete.
This page is informational and is not legal advice. Requirements change; ask the competent authority for binding information.
Is this your route?
Take the test to see how well your profile fits this route, or look at the packages built for it.
