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Summary: for “regulated” occupations (reglementierte Berufe) such as doctor, nurse, teacher or, in some states, engineer, recognition of your qualification (Anerkennung) is mandatory. For many other occupations it is not mandatory but improves your chances of being hired. The main source of information is the official portal “Anerkennung in Deutschland”.
First: is your occupation regulated?
On the portal anerkennung-in-deutschland.de you can search your occupation to see whether it requires recognition and which authority (zuständige Stelle) is responsible; this authority differs by occupation and state (for example the Chamber of Industry and Commerce IHK, the Chamber of Crafts, or state offices for doctors).
Usual documents
Passport, degree certificate and transcripts, employment records, CV, language certificate, and an official translation of the documents by a sworn translator. Sometimes official certification (stamp of the Ministry of Justice/Foreign Ministry) and additional documents are requested.
The result of the assessment
The result can be “fully equivalent”, “partially equivalent” or “not equivalent”. If there are differences, compensation measures (Ausgleichsmaßnahmen) such as an adaptation course (Anpassungslehrgang) or an aptitude/knowledge test (Eignungs-/Kenntnisprüfung) are set. The cost is usually from a few tens to a few hundred euros and varies by authority.
Help and advice
The government advice line “Arbeiten und Leben in Deutschland” serves in several languages, and the counselling centres (Beratungsstellen) of the IQ network also help free of charge. For doctors, each state’s licensing authority (Landesprüfungsamt) is the responsible body.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take?
By law the authority must decide within about three months after the documents are complete, but in practice times vary.
Can I apply from outside Germany?
Yes, applying before entry is also possible and is useful for a work visa.
Sources: anerkennung-in-deutschland.de. This article is general guidance and is not legal or tax advice; rules and amounts change, so check with the official authority before acting.
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