Who it fits

  • Doctors, dentists, pharmacists, nurses and other health professionals
  • Teachers and regulated technical professions
  • Anyone whose qualification is only partly recognised and needs to close a gap

What is usually required

  • An assessment of your qualification by the competent state authority: full recognition or a deficit notice (Defizitbescheid).
  • For health professions, usually B2 German plus the professional language exam (Fachsprachprüfung).
  • Where gaps remain, an adaptation course (Anpassungslehrgang) or a knowledge exam (Kenntnisprüfung).
  • A § 16d permit for the recognition period, then § 18a or the EU Blue Card for work.

The route, step by step

  1. Establish whether your profession is regulated and which authority is competent.
  2. Translate and certify the documents, then file the recognition application.
  3. While the decision is pending, take German to B2 and prepare the language exam.
  4. Close any gaps through the adaptation course or exam, then obtain admission.
  5. Sign an employment contract and move to a work permit.

This page is informational and is not legal advice. Requirements change; ask the competent authority for binding information.

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