Healthcare & care · Apotheker:in (Approbation)
Pharmacist
Pharmacists need the Approbation (professional licence). Like doctors, this is a strictly regulated profession with a professional-language exam, but demand in pharmacies is strong.
- Who recognises it
- The state licensing authority (Approbationsbehörde) — pharmacy requires an Approbation.
- German level
- B2 general + C1 professional German.
- Typical salary
- ≈ €4,000–5,500 gross/month.
- How long it takes
- 6–12 months (longer with a knowledge test).
How recognition works
- 1Apply to the Approbationsbehörde for an equivalence assessment of your degree.
- 2Pass the professional-language exam (Fachsprachprüfung, C1).
- 3Pass the knowledge test (Kenntnisprüfung) if your training isn't equivalent.
- 4Receive the Approbation and start work.
Documents you'll need
- Pharmacy degree + full transcript (certified translation)
- Certificate of good standing
- German certificates (B2 + professional C1)
- Passport, CV, health certificate
💶 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.