Recognition of Qualifications for Nurses and Ausbildung

Step-by-Step Process

1. Gathering Required Documents:
• Educational Certificates: Original and certified copies of nursing degree/diploma and transcripts.
• Professional Experience: Proof of work experience, including reference letters from previous employers.
• Language Proficiency: Certificates proving B2 level German proficiency (Telc B2, Goethe B2, etc.).
• Passport: A copy of your passport.
• Other Documents: CV, a letter of motivation, and possibly a medical certificate confirming health fitness.

2. Translation and Certification:

• All documents need to be translated into German by a certified translator.
• Copies of original documents must be certified by a recognized authority (notary or German consulate).

3. Application Submission:

• Submit the application to the appropriate German recognition authority (Regierungspräsidium, Gesundheitsamt, or another relevant body).
• Pay the application fee (varies by state and authority).

4. Assessment by Authorities:

• The authority will compare your foreign qualifications with the German standards.
• They may request additional information or documentation.
• The process can take several months, depending on the complexity of your case and the authority’s workload.

5. Outcome of the Assessment:

• Full Recognition: If your qualifications are fully recognized, you will receive a certificate of recognition (Anerkennungsurkunde), allowing you to work as a nurse in Germany.
• Partial Recognition: If there are substantial differences, you may be required to take an adaptation course (Anpassungslehrgang) or pass a knowledge test (Kenntnisprufung).
• Additional Training/Exams: Enroll in the necessary courses or prepare for the exams to bridge the qualification gap.

6. Applying for a Job:

• With the recognition certificate, we can start applying for nursing positions in Germany.
• Employers may still require proof of language proficiency and other standard application documents.

7. Visa and Work Permit:

• Once you have a job offer, apply for a work visa at the German embassy or consulate in your home country.
• Submit documents including the job contract, recognition certificate, proof of language proficiency, and other required documents.
• After obtaining the visa, travel to Germany and apply for a residence permit.

8. Registration with Local Authorities:

• Register your residence at the local registration office (Einwohnermeldeamt).
• Register with the nursing council (Pflegekammer) if required in your state.
• Obtain health insurance and fulfill other bureaucratic requirements.

Tips for a Successful Recognition Process:

• Preparation: Start preparing documents and learning German well in advance.
• Research: We will help you to understand the specific requirements of the recognition authority in the state where you plan to work.
• Persistence: The process can be lengthy and complex, so be patient and persisten

Ausbildung Process for Candidates

1. Understanding the Ausbildung System

• Dual System: The Ausbildung system in Germany is dual, combining theoretical instruction at a vocational school (Berufsschule) with practical training at a company with paid Internship (Ausbildungsbetrieb).
• Duration: Typically lasts 2-3 years, depending on the profession and the candidate's prior qualifications.
• Fields: Available in various fields such as healthcare, hospitality, engineering, IT,  trades, and more.

2. Educational Requirements

• Minimum Education: Usually requires a 12th pass with 60% or equivalent.
• Specific Requirements: Some programs may have additional requirements such as specific subjects or grades.

3. Language Proficiency

• German Proficiency: B1/B2 level of German proficiency is generally required.
• Language Tests: Accepted tests include Telc B1/B2, Goethe B1/B2, OSD B1/B2 and TestDaF.

4. Finding an Ausbildung Program

• Research: Identify the field of interest and research available Ausbildung programs.
• Networking: Attend job fairs and connect with companies that offer Ausbildung positions.

5. Application Process

• Document Preparation:
• CV (Lebenslauf): In German, detailing education, work experience, skills, and personal information.
• Cover Letter (Anschreiben): A personalized letter explaining why you are interested in the Ausbildung and why you are a suitable candidate.
• Certificates: Copies of educational qualifications and language proficiency certificates.
• References: Letters of recommendation from teachers or previous employers, if available.
• Application Submission:
• Apply to companies or vocational schools offering the Ausbildung program.
• Some applications can be submitted online, while others may require mailing physical copies.

6. Interview Process

• Preparation: Prepare for interviews by researching the company, understanding the Ausbildung program, and practicing common interview questions.
• Interview: Attend interviews, either in person or online, and demonstrate your motivation, language skills, and suitability for the program.

7. Receiving an Offer

• Contract: If successful, you will receive a training contract (Ausbildungsvertrag) outlining the terms of your Ausbildung, including duration, salary, and responsibilities.
• Review: Carefully review the contract, and seek clarification if needed before signing.

8. Visa Application

• Required Documents:
• Training Contract: The signed Ausbildungsvertrag.
• Language Certificates: Proof of B1/B2 German proficiency.
• Educational Certificates: Copies of your school mark sheets with passing certificates and other relevant qualifications.
• Passport: Valid passport and recent photographs.
• Health Insurance: Proof of health insurance coverage in Germany.
• Visa Submission: Submit your visa application to the German embassy or consulate in your home country.
• Interview: Attend the visa interview, if required, and provide any additional documents requested by the embassy.

9. Travel and Relocation

• Travel Arrangements: Book your travel to Germany after obtaining the visa.
• Accommodation: Arrange for accommodation, either through the training company, vocational school, or independently.
• Registration: Register your residence at the local registration office (Einwohnermeldeamt) within 14 days of arrival.
• Residence Permit: Apply for a residence permit for vocational training at the local immigration office (Auslanderbehorde).

10. Starting the Ausbildung

• Orientation: Attend orientation sessions provided by the vocational school and training company.
• Integration: Begin your Ausbildung, balancing theoretical instruction with practical training.
• Support: Utilize support services offered by the training company, vocational school, and local community to help with integration and success in the program.

Tips for a Successful Ausbildung Application:

• Early Preparation: Start preparing documents and learning German well in advance.
• Research: Thoroughly research Ausbildung programs and companies.
• Networking: Connect with professionals and attend job fairs to increase your chances of finding a suitable position.
• Persistence: The application process can be competitive, so apply to multiple programs and be persistent.