All information about the recognition procedure
On this page you will find an overview of all the content concerning the recognition procedure and everything related to it.
Required language skills
In order to obtain a visa, you’ll need at least a B1 language certificate according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) and a B2 level for your recognition, however, almost all employers now require a B2 language certificate before arrival.
This is to ensure that you have not only memorized your sentences for the interview, but that you can communicate on the ward and hold a normal conversation.
Fachsprachenprüfung
If you would like to find out more about the Fachsprachenprüfung (technical language test) and whether it is relevant for you, you can find all the information you need on the Nice website.
If you already have a B1 level, you will find an app here that you can use to playfully improve your German in the nursing profession.
Recognition Process
In order to be able to work in Germany, you must have your degree recognized in Germany. To do this, you must submit an application for professional recognition. As soon as this has been done, you will receive a so-called Defizit- or Feststellungsbescheid (assessment/recognition notice). If you then do not have enough work experience or the appropriate professional qualification to receive a direct recognition, there are two ways to make up for your deficits:
Kenntnisprüfung (knowledge exam) or Anpassungslehrgang (adaptation course)
How does the recognition process work?
Application for recognition
Formal review
Have all documents been submitted?
Content review – Gleichwertigkeitsprüfung (equivalence assessment)
a) no significant differences ⇒ direct recognition
b) significant differences ⇒ can be compensated by professional experience ⇒ direct recognition
c) significant differences, no compensation through work experience is possible ⇒ no direct recognition ⇒ Defizitbescheid (recognition notice)
Feststellungsbescheid (Defizitbescheid)
Choice between:
a) Anpassungslehrgang (adaptation period)
b) Kenntnisprüfung (knowledge test)
What is a Kenntnisprüfung?
The Kenntnisprüfung (knowledge exam) consists of a theoretical/oral and a practical exam. Before the actual exam, you will take part in a preparatory course that will thoroughly prepare you for all exam content. The duration of this course varies depending on the state and provider. In some states, you can start the preparatory course with a B1 language certificate, but a B2 language certificate is usually required.
If you would like to learn more about the knowledge test, please click here.
What is an Anpassungslehrgang?
The Anpassungslehrgang (adaptation course) consists of a practical part and a final interview. Essentially, the adaptation course can be understood as a longer internship in various departments of a hospital or other suitable institution.
At the end of the course, a final interview takes place to determine whether the adaptation course has been successfully completed. During the practical part, participants are assigned practical instructors to assist them.
The exact duration of the adaptation course and the departments that must be completed are specified in the Defizitbescheid (deficit notice). Depending on the federal state and the requirements of the Defizitbescheid, the duration may vary, often indicated in hours, but sometimes also in months. As a rule, the maximum feasible duration of an adaptation course is approximately 9 months.
It is important to clarify in advance with the employer whether the necessary facilities or departments are available for the course at all.
Simplified overview of required documents
Applicants with a university degree (bachelor or master) generally submit the following documents:
– CV with a photo (only in German)
– Diploma of completed university education
– Transcript of records
– Language certificate B1 or B2 (only Goethe, ÖSD, telc and ECL are acknowledged)
Documents for candidates with a secondary education
- CV with a photo (only in German)
- Secondary school diploma
- Report cards for grades 1 to 4
- State Exam
- Training certificate
- Subjects list
- Language certificate B1 or B2 (only Goethe, ÖSD, telc and ECL are acknowledged)
- Professional license (only in some countries)
Documents for candidates with a recognition in Germany
- Tabular CV (and a CV with a picture for us)
- Berufsurkunde – Certificate of entitlement (the document confirms that you are permitted to practice your occupation)
- Language certificate – B2 level (only Goethe, ÖSD, telc and ECL are acknowledged)
* All documents are only required in German
Since each federal state requires the documents in a different form, it is safest if you first have the copies of all your original documents certified at the embassy and then have them translated by a publicly appointed and sworn translator.
IMPORTANT! However, it would be best if you contact us before preparing your documents so that we can advise you specifically according to your situation and the federal state you are interested in.
DEFIZITBESCHEID: An overview of all applications and documents for the Defizitbescheid can be found here.
How do I get my visa? – The immigration process
Fachrkäfteeinwanderungs-gesetz
beschleunigtes Fachrkäfteverfahren (FEG)
Skilled Worker’s Immigration Act / fast-track admission procedure
If you wish to enter Germany from a third country, you can do so via the fast-track procedure for skilled workers in accordance with Section 81a of the Residence Act (AufenthG). In theory, this procedure allows you to obtain a visa within four months, but this depends on many factors and may take longer.
For more information, you can watch this short and descriptive video:
You’ll find detailed information here: https://www.make-it-in-germany.com/en/visa-residence/skilled-immigration-act
The fast-track procedure for skilled workers is not the only procedure you can use. For information on other procedures, please consult the information brochure from “Faire Anwerbung Pflege Deutschland” or www.make-it-in-germany.com.
Administrative procedures after your arrival in Germany
Here is just a brief overview of the things that need to be done as soon as you come to Germany:
Registration with the responsible registration authority
(Einwohnermeldeamt/Landratsamt – residents’ registration office/district office etc.)
-> Here you should receive your tax number (Steuernummer)
Registration at the immigration office/immigration office (Ausländerbehörde)
Opening of a bank account
Registration with the health insurance company
(We can help you with this last step. You are welcome to contact us a few days before your arrival in Germany.)