Working as a nurse in Germany offers great opportunities, but before starting your career, you must obtain official recognition of your qualifications — known as Anerkennung. This process ensures that your foreign nursing degree is equivalent to German standards and that you meet all professional and language requirements. Understanding the steps in advance can help you save time, avoid rejections, and prepare all necessary documents properly.

1. Understanding the Recognition Process

To work legally as a registered nurse in Germany, your qualifications must be officially recognized by the relevant state authority (Anerkennungsstelle). Each German federal state (Bundesland) has its own responsible authority, and the process may vary slightly. Recognition confirms that your training and skills are on par with the German nursing education system.

If your qualification is only partially equivalent, you might need to take an adaptation course (Anpassungslehrgang) or pass a knowledge test (Kenntnisprüfung) to bridge any identified gaps.

2. Documents Required

Before applying, prepare the following documents (translated into German and apostilled where required):

Passport or valid ID

Proof of nursing qualification (degree/diploma)

Detailed transcript of records

Certificate of professional experience (if any)

Proof of German language proficiency (B2 level)

Birth certificate

Police clearance certificate

Medical fitness certificate

Application form and processing fee receipt

All foreign documents must be officially translated by a certified translator and legalized with an apostille or attestation, depending on your country.

3. Application Submission

Submit your application directly to the recognition authority of the German state where you plan to work. You can apply from abroad or after arriving in Germany. Some applicants use a local representative or consultant to communicate with the authorities, especially if language barriers exist.
Processing time can range from 3 to 6 months, depending on the completeness of your documents and the state’s workload.

4. Temporary Work Permit

While your recognition is still in process, you can apply for a temporary work permit (Berufserlaubnis). This allows you to work under supervision in a healthcare facility until your final recognition decision is made. It’s an excellent way to gain experience and adjust to the German healthcare system.

5. Final Approval and Registration

Once your qualification is recognized, you’ll receive the Urkunde (official recognition certificate). You can then register with the Nursing Council (Pflegekammer) in your region and start working independently as a licensed nurse.