Healthcare & care · Apotheker:in (Approbation)
Pharmacist
Working as an Apotheker requires an Approbation or an applicable temporary professional permit. The state licensing authority assesses equivalence and the other licensing conditions, including language evidence. Knowledge or professional-language exams may be required for your case.
- Who recognises it
- The state licensing authority (Approbationsbehörde) — pharmacy requires an Approbation.
- German level
- Usually B2 general German and C1 professional-language evidence. The state licensing authority specifies accepted proofs and exams.
- Typical salary
- Check the exact occupation and region in the BA Entgeltatlas. No verified comparable national figure is quoted here.
- How long it takes
- Usually 3–4 months for the assessment after all required documents are complete. Extensions, translations, courses, exams and licensing can add time; check the competent authority's procedure.
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 2026-10-10. Recognition rules depend on the profession and the federal state, and they change. Confirm with the official authority linked above.