Skilled trades · Dachdecker:in

Roofer

Not regulated — recognition optional but useful

Employed roofing work is not regulated. The chamber of crafts can assess whether foreign training matches the German qualification. Check recognition requirements for the residence route you intend to use. A roofing business has separate registration and qualification requirements.

Who recognises it
The Handwerkskammer (chamber of crafts) assesses your training. Running your own firm needs a Meister.
German level
The employer sets the language requirement for the specific job. Check the advert and any separate residence-permit requirements; there is no single CEFR threshold for this occupation.
Typical salary
€3,783 gross/month. BA 2025 full-time median for Dachdecker/in; a reference for the occupational group, not an entry salary or job offer.
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

  1. 1Apply to the Handwerkskammer for an equivalence assessment.
  2. 2Provide training records and work references.
  3. 3Apply for the skilled-worker visa, or come first via a recognition partnership.

Documents you'll need

  • Vocational/craft qualification (certified translation)
  • Training records
  • Work experience proof
  • Passport + CV
Official recognition portal ↗

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.

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.

Once you're in Germany

Once you've arrived, these are the first steps. Our city guides list the documents for each, and the free TiG Pilot extension explains and fills the forms on supported websites.

Open the step-by-step guides →

Other occupations

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