Applying as a Doctor in Germany: How to Succeed as an International Physician

You’re a trained physician from abroad and ready to start your medical career in Germany? Then your application needs to be more than just formally correct. It should reflect your personal story, your motivation, and your potential. Whether you’re applying for a residency (Assistenzärztin) or a specialist role (Fachärztin), your documents should clearly show who you are and where you’re headed.

We’ll walk you through each step of the application process – and at the end, you’ll find answers to common questions from international applicants.

🩺 Apply with confidence – Get2Germany helps you find job openings, observerships, or temporary roles tailored to your background as an international doctor.

Here’s what you need to prepare:

• Cover page (optional, but helpful)
• Motivation letter (max. 1 page)
• CV (tabular format)
• Certificates and documentation, including:
  • Approbation certificate or temporary medical license (Berufserlaubnis)
  • University degree
  • Employment references (in reverse chronological order)
  • PhD certificate (if applicable)
  • Course certificates and language proficiency proof

Tip for international applicants: Have your documents officially translated into German by a certified translator. Many employers expect clearly legible, complete German documents.

If you're applying for a senior position (e.g., Oberärztin), additional documentation may be required. Feel free to contact us – we’re here to help.

If you choose not to include a cover page, your application starts with the motivation letter, followed by your CV and supporting documents. The structure differs slightly depending on your level of experience:

For Residents (Assistenzärztinnen):

• Approbation certificate or temporary license
• University diploma
• Employment references (latest first)
• Continuing education and language certificates

For Specialists (Fachärztinnen):

• Specialist certificate
• Additional qualifications
• Then follow the same structure as above

The cover page is optional but helps organize your application and gives it a clean appearance. It includes:

• The title (e.g., “Application for a Position as Internal Medicine Resident”)
• Your contact details
• A professional photo (recommended but not mandatory)

Your letter should prove that you’ve researched the clinic, understand the role, and are motivated to join their team.

Key Elements:

• Personalized salutation – ideally by name
• Unique opening line – avoid clichés like “I hereby apply...”
• Clear motivation – why Germany? Why this clinic?

Structure:

• Opening: e.g. “During my observership at your hospital, I greatly appreciated the team-oriented environment.”
• Main section: Highlight your medical and language skills, strengths, and how you align with the job profile.
• Closing: Express interest in an interview and sign (digitally is fine)

Tip: Mention if you already live in Germany, attend language courses, or have gained local experience.

Your CV is the core of your application. It should clearly present your education and experience.

• Use a tabular format with clear structure
• List dates in MM/YYYY format
• Include training, residencies, work experience
• State language proficiency, e.g. “German B2, telc Medizin”
• Include IT skills (if applicable)
• Optional: soft skills, hobbies, volunteer work

A professional photo in the top right corner is the norm in Germany.

These documents support your CV:

• Approbation or Berufserlaubnis
• Language certificates (e.g. telc B2/C1 Medizin, FSP)
• Employment references in reverse order
• Certificates from trainings, workshops, or courses
• Translations and notarized copies if needed

Note: If your degree isn’t widely recognized in Germany, briefly explain the structure of your medical studies in your CV or motivation letter.

• Use a clean, consistent layout
• Readable fonts: Arial, Lato, Times New Roman
• Font size: 11–12 pt
• Line spacing: 1.5
• Clear paragraphs and section headings

Sign your letter and CV – either digitally or scanned. And: always have someone proofread!

Most clinics now prefer digital applications via email or online portals.

If you must send a physical application:

• Use high-quality paper (min. 100 g/m²)
• Choose a cardboard folder, not plastic sleeves
• Send in a DIN B4 envelope
• Pro tip: keep all receipts – these costs may be tax-deductible

A strong application is your entry into the German healthcare system. Be clear, structured, and show who you are – professionally and personally.

Sign up for free on Get2Germany and receive personalized support with your application, job search, and recognition process.

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1. What if I don’t have my Approbation yet?

Include your temporary medical license or a confirmation that your Approbation application has been submitted. This shows you're actively in the process.

1. Which language should I use for my application?

Always write in German. Even if you’re more fluent in English, your application is proof that you’re ready to work in the German system.

1. I don’t have experience in the German healthcare system – what now?

Start with an observership (Hospitation). It helps you understand local workflows, improves your medical German, and connects you with future employers. You’ll find offers directly on our platform.