Healthcare & care · Pflegefachkraft (Gesundheits- und Krankenpfleger:in)
Registered nurse
Nursing is Germany's single biggest shortage occupation. Because it's a regulated profession you must have your qualification recognised as equivalent to the German Pflegefachkraft before you can work as a nurse — but you can start the process from abroad or come first under a recognition partnership.
- Who recognises it
- The recognition office of the federal state (Bundesland) where you'll work — nursing is regulated at state level.
- German level
- B2 German (B1 sometimes accepted to start).
- Typical salary
- ≈ €3,300–4,200 gross/month, plus shift bonuses.
- How long it takes
- 3–6 months once your documents are complete.
How recognition works
- 1Use the official Recognition Finder to identify your state's nursing recognition office.
- 2Submit your diploma + transcript + proof of work experience for an equivalence assessment.
- 3If gaps are found, complete an adaptation course (Anpassungslehrgang) or a knowledge test (Kenntnisprüfung).
- 4Reach B2 German and pass any required language check.
- 5Receive the recognition notice (Anerkennungsbescheid) and start work as a Pflegefachkraft.
Documents you'll need
- Nursing diploma / certificate (with certified translation)
- Detailed transcript of hours and subjects
- Proof of relevant work experience
- German language certificate (B2)
- Passport + CV in German format
💶 Costs & translations
Recognition fees are typically €100–600. Budget extra for certified German translations of your documents and, in some countries, an apostille/legalisation. Adaptation courses or exams can add further cost.
🤝 Come first, recognise here
For regulated jobs you can use a recognition partnership (Anerkennungspartnerschaft): enter Germany with a job offer and finish the recognition after you arrive, instead of waiting abroad.
Your visa routes
Last verified 2026-06-30. Recognition rules vary by federal state and change over time — always confirm with the official portal linked above.