Approbation Germany: A Step-by-Step Guide for foreign Doctors

If you're a doctor from the EU or a non-EU country dreaming of working in Germany, there's one word you’ll hear again and again: Approbation.

This is Germany’s full medical license, your official permission to practise medicine independently anywhere in the country. For many foreign physicians, it’s the key that unlocks the next big step in their career. Whether you're applying for Approbation or seeking your German medical licensure, understanding the steps and requirements is crucial.

For foreign doctors, Approbation is essential. It grants the official right to use the protected professional title of “Arzt” or “Ärztin” in Germany – and marks the beginning of a new chapter that often includes intensive German training, licensing exams, and clinical preparation — all of which require solid knowledge of the German language to practise medicine safely and confidently in a new healthcare system.

In other words: Only with Approbation can you work independently and take full medical responsibility.

It’s also a prerequisite for starting a specialist training (Facharztausbildung) or obtaining a temporary medical license (Berufserlaubnis) to gain your first clinical experience in Germany.

Approbation plays a key role in ensuring high-quality health services. It guarantees that only qualified, verified professionals are allowed to practise medicine, protecting patients and reinforcing public trust in the German healthcare system.

Beyond the legal requirement, Approbation also strengthens your job prospects by giving you access to licensed positions in hospitals, clinics, and medical practices across the country.

The legal foundation for Approbation in Germany is set out in the Medical Licensing Regulations (Approbationsordnung) and the Federal Medical Code (Bundesärzteordnung, BÄO). These laws define the requirements and procedures for obtaining Approbation — not just for physicians, but also for other licensed healthcare professions such as dentistry, pharmacy, and psychotherapy."

Key institutions like the German Medical Association (Bundesärztekammer) and the regional State Medical Chambers (Landesärztekammern) play a central role in recognizing foreign qualifications, granting licenses, and overseeing medical training.

🔎 Approbation is the official recognition process for foreign degrees in medicine — and the legal gateway to becoming a licensed doctor in Germany.

One key factor in obtaining Approbation is whether your medical qualification is considered equivalent to a German qualification.

If you earned your degree in a non-EU country (a so-called “third country”), different requirements apply than for qualifications from the European Union, where recognition is often automatic or significantly simplified.

If you gained your diploma in one of the EU countries, the recognition process is usually simpler due to harmonized education standards — and automatic recognition often applies.

You can apply for Approbation regardless of your nationality. However, the specific requirements vary depending on the country where your degree was obtained. Below, you’ll find a quick overview of the most important steps.

💡 Approbation made simple: With the Get2Germany eGuide, you stay organized, save time, and confidently navigate every step of the recognition process. Flexible, digital, personal.

👉🏽 Start your Approbation journey now.

To work as a doctor in Germany, you must provide proof of two language certificates:

1. B2 Certificate
   General language skills at B2 level. Accepted certificates include telc B2, Goethe-Zertifikat B2, or TestDaF (minimum 3x TDN4 scores).
2. Fachsprachprüfung (FSP) – C1 Medical German

This is a specialized C1-level exam focusing on medical language and medical terminology. The State Medical Chamber (Landesärztekammer) conducts this exam to assess whether you can communicate clearly and professionally with both patients and colleagues.

💡 Tip: You must pass both exams, and they typically must not be older than three years.

Assessing the equivalency of your medical education is the first and most important step in the licensing procedure.

Before you begin the recognition procedure, you need to determine whether your foreign medical qualification can be considered equivalent to a German one. Approbation depends on whether the content and structure of your studies match German medical training standards. This is especially relevant if you studied outside the EU or in a so-called third country.

At Get2Germany, we help you assess whether your education meets these standards – and what options are available if it doesn’t. Your qualifications and professional competencies play a crucial role in this evaluation.

Even if your degree doesn’t directly qualify you for Approbation, you may still be eligible for a temporary licence to practise medicine (Berufserlaubnis) that allows you to practice under supervision in Germany for a limited time.

To apply for Approbation, you’ll need to submit the following documents, including:

• Your passport
• Medical diploma
• Academic transcripts
• Proof of clinical experience
• Language certificates
• And more

📌 All documents must be officially translated.

You’ll find a full list of required documents and translation guidelines directly on the Get2Germany platform.

Get2Germany also provides practical checklists and connects you with a trusted network of certified translators who specialize in medical licensing – so you can save time, effort, and money.

Language is key – not just for Approbation, but for everyday life in Germany. Strong knowledge of the German language are essential for getting your license and succeeding in clinical practice.

You’ll need two language certificates:

• B2 certificate in general German
• C1 Medical German for the Fachsprachprüfung (FSP), which is a mandatory part of the licensing process

Don’t worry if you’re not there yet – we’ll guide you through your preparation with expert tips, German training recommendations, and digital resources on medical language exams.

📌 Good communication skills aren’t just important for passing exams – they’re critical for working in teams and with patients every day.

Learn German your way – anytime, anywhere, with ApproLearn, our flexible eLearning tool designed to build confidence in communication and strengthen your understanding of medical terminology. Coming soon – stay tuned!

Each federal state in Germany has its own authority responsible for recognizing medical qualifications. The requirements and procedures can vary slightly between states, as the local medical chambers and licensing authorities oversee the Approbation process.

📍 You should apply in the state where you plan to live and seek employment before receiving your final license.

The authority will review your documents and determine whether:

• You can receive Approbation directly
• Additional exams are required
• Documents are missing or incomplete

If you have questions or need to submit documents, you can contact the responsible authority by email.

🗂️ Example: In Bavaria, the Regierung von Oberbayern and Regierung von Unterfranken are responsible for issuing Approbation.

The Get2Germany platform provides step-by-step instructions for every federal state to guide you through the application process.

If your medical education is not considered fully equivalent to the German standard, the authority will issue a Deficit Letter (Defizitbescheid). This document outlines the significant differences and specific gaps in your qualifications that must be addressed before Approbation can be granted.

Most commonly, it refers to:

• The Fachsprachprüfung (FSP) – medical language exam
• The Kenntnisprüfung (KP) – knowledge examination on medical theory and practice

To make your licensing procedure as smooth as possible, keep the following in mind:

• ✅ Submit complete and accurate documents to avoid delays.
• 📋 Check the requirements in advance and make sure you meet all necessary conditions for medical licensing.
• 🧭 Use advisory services from state authorities and medical chambers – they can help guide you through the process.
• ⏰ Keep an eye on all deadlines, including those for document submission and application processing.
• 🗣️ Make sure your language skills are up to par, as strong language proficiency is essential for practicing medicine safely and effectively.

With solid preparation and the right support, you'll significantly improve your chances of getting your license approved quickly.

Once you’ve received your Deficit Letter (Defizitbescheid), you can apply for a national visa (Type D) to come to Germany and complete the next steps toward your Approbation.

There are different visa types depending on your individual background and documents — choosing the right one is essential. We’re here to help you navigate the options.

After arriving in Germany, getting your temporary medical license (Berufserlaubnis) is a key milestone that allows you to begin practical medical work.After arriving in Germany, you may need to apply for a residence permit (Aufenthaltstitel) at your local immigration office (Ausländerbehörde) to remain in the country legally while completing your recognition procedure and medical exams.

In many cases, your visa will be tied to a specific requirement in the recognition process — for example, the Fachsprachprüfung (FSP) or the Knowledge Test.

Once you’ve arrived in Germany, one of your first key steps is taking the Fachsprachprüfung (FSP) – the medical language exam. The FSP is part of the medical suitability assessment under § 10 of the German Medical Act (BÄO), which defines the requirements for obtaining a temporary medical license (Berufserlaubnis).

The exam evaluates whether you can communicate clearly and confidently in German during real-life clinical situations – with patients, colleagues, and other health professionals across the medical care spectrum.

In addition to the language exam, your medical fitness and professional qualifications are also assessed as part of this suitability check. You’ll find detailed information on the required documents and responsible authorities directly on the Get2Germany platform.

Passing the FSP is essential to receive your temporary license under § 10 BÄO and to begin working in healthcare institutions such as hospitals, medical care centers (MVZ), or private practices.

🎯 With Get2Germany eLearning, you can prepare efficiently, flexibly, and with a focus on real clinical communication.

After passing the Fachsprachprüfung (FSP), you can apply for a temporary professional permit (Berufserlaubnis) – a limited-time license that allows you to gain clinical experience under supervision in Germany. This temporary professional permit allows you to work under supervision for a limited time – an important step on your journey toward full licensure (Approbation).

During this period, you'll have the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in a German hospital while preparing for the Knowledge Examination (Kenntnisprüfung), which is mandatory for doctors with a medical diploma from third countries.

The Berufserlaubnis is typically valid for up to two years and is tied to specific healthcare institutions and a supervising physician.

💡 While this license doesn’t grant full autonomy, it opens the door to valuable clinical experience and gives you the chance to practise medicine under supervision in Germany’s health system. At this point, you're actively participating in the German healthcare system – gaining experience, building networks, and preparing for your full medical license.

Our Get2Germany eGuide helps you navigate the job search and get ready for interviews – with checklists, tips, and everything you need to make a strong start.

The Kenntnisprüfung (KP) is designed to assess whether your medical knowledge and training are on par with German standards.

If your qualifications were not recognized as fully equivalent during the review process, this exam is required.

It evaluates both your theoretical knowledge and practical clinical skills to ensure you’re ready to work independently as a licensed physician in Germany.

✅ Once you pass the KP, you’ve reached a major milestone:
You now meet all the formal requirements for full medical licensure (Approbation). This means you are officially eligible to receive your german medical license and begin working as an independent physician in Germany.

After receiving your Approbation, you can begin your specialist medical training according to the regulations of the regional medical chambers (Landesärztekammern).

Your temporary license (Berufserlaubnis) will be replaced with an unrestricted Approbation – granting you full professional rights as a doctor in Germany.

You’ve made it!
Once you’ve fulfilled all the requirements, you’ll be granted full medical licensure in Germany – the Approbation.

With this official certificate, you are legally permitted to use the protected professional title “Arzt” or “Ärztin” and to practice medicine independently and long-term across Germany.

From this point on, you’re fully authorized to work as a licensed physician – with all the rights and responsibilities that come with it.

Obtaining your Approbation unlocks a wide range of opportunities for international physicians:

• You gain the legal right to use the protected title “Arzt” or “Ärztin” (Doctor).
• You’re allowed to practice medicine independently and with full responsibility.
• You gain access to specialist training programs and professional development opportunities in Germany.
• You help uphold high standards in patient care by meeting rigorous qualification requirements.
• Your professional qualifications are officially recognized not only in Germany but also across the EU.

In short: Approbation provides a strong foundation for your career in medicine in Germany – just as it does for thousands of foreign physicians and healthcare professionals entering the medical profession each year.

And it’s not just for physicians: pharmacists, psychotherapists, and other licensed healthcare professionals benefit from Approbation – no matter what healthcare profession they represent – to work legally and confidently in Germany’s healthcare system.

To ensure your Approbation application is processed successfully, you’ll need to submit a range of official documents. Requirements may vary slightly depending on your country of qualification (EU or third country) and the federal state in which you apply – but good preparation will save you time and stress.
Make sure to check for other requirements that may apply, such as specific deadlines, notarized translations, or local authority fees.

🗂️ If your foreign professional qualification was acquired outside the EU, additional documentation such as a knowledge test or medical aptitude evaluation may be required before full recognition is granted. These evaluations ensure your qualifications meet the standards for obtaining a medical license in Germany and allow you to practice medicine legally and safely.

Here’s a compact overview of the most common documents and certificates you’ll typically need to receive your medical license (Approbation) in Germany:

• Completed application form for medical licensure (Approbation)
• Chronological CV (curriculum vitae, signed and dated)
• Certified copy of your ID card or passport
• Birth certificate (and marriage certificate if your name has changed)
• Proof of jurisdiction for the selected federal state (e.g. residence, employment contract, job applications, or valid residence permit)

• Certificate of good conduct from Germany (Type O) – no older than 3 months
• Criminal record extract from your home country (and the country where you studied, if applicable)
• Certificate of Good Standing – proof of professional conduct from relevant authorities
• Medical certificate confirming your physical and mental fitness (issued within the last 3 months); this official medical certificate must be issued by a licensed doctor and is required by all state authorities as part of your Approbation application.
• Declaration of any ongoing legal or disciplinary proceedings

• Medical diploma
• Detailed transcript of subjects with number of hours
• Transcript of grades
• Proof of clinical training (e.g. practical year, clinical rotations)
• Approbation certificate from your home country (if applicable)
• Doctorate certificate (if applicable)

• B2 German certificate (telc, Goethe, TestDaF – no older than 3 years)
• C1-level Medical German certificate (Fachsprachprüfung) via your regional medical chamber

• Certified copies of all submitted documents

🔍 Note: Depending on your country of education (EU or third countries) and the state in which you apply, additional documents may be required. Always check the specific checklist provided by the responsible regional authority.

North Rhine-Westphalia is one of the most popular federal states for international doctors applying for Approbation in Germany. If your medical degree was earned abroad, the District Government of Münster is the sole authority responsible for processing your application.

For the medical language exam (Fachsprachprüfung) and for registration after receiving your Approbation, two institutions are in charge: the Medical Association of North Rhine and the Medical Association of Westphalia-Lippe.

While the general requirements are similar to those in other federal states, it’s worth taking a closer look at specific regional differences — for example, when choosing the exam location for the Fachsprachprüfung or submitting your documents.

Approbation is a crucial milestone for international physicians who want to practice in Germany. By understanding the requirements and carefully navigating the process, you can successfully obtain your license — and work independently as a doctor.

Approbation not only opens the door to a wide range of career opportunities, it also ensures the quality of medical care and gives you the legal right to use the professional title “doctor.”

With the right preparation and clear guidance on the steps, timelines, and required paperwork, you can make your path to Approbation smooth, efficient, and far less stressful.

Feeling overwhelmed by the medical licensing process? Not with us.

At Get2Germany, we combine smart digital tools with personal guidance tailored to your education and individual situation.

Our interactive eGuide gives you structure, clarity, and exactly the support you need – step by step. On our platform, you’ll find all essential information and direct links to the relevant authorities, such as regional licensing offices and the Central Service Center for Professional Recognition.

Everything that matters – all in one place. For your fresh start in Germany.

• What is the Approbation?
  The Approbation is the official process for recognizing your foreign medical qualification in Germany. It includes the assessment of equivalency, language certifications (B2 and C1 Medical), and, if necessary, a medical knowledge exam (Kenntnisprüfung), followed by the issuance of the Approbation by the relevant regional health authority. In some cases, a temporary professional permit (Berufserlaubnis) may be issued before full Approbation, allowing you to begin working under supervision while completing the full recognition process. The specific requirements depend on your country of education, qualifications, and the federal state where you apply.
• How long does the Approbation process take for international doctors?
  The duration varies depending on the federal state, how complete your application materials are, and whether you need to take a knowledge exam. In many cases, the entire process takes between 6 and 18 months. The processing time at the respective licensing authority also depends on current workloads and how quickly you respond to any additional document requests. With proper preparation and guidance, you can save valuable time.
• What are the key steps in the Approbation process in Germany?
  The main steps include: recognition of your medical degree, translation and submission of all required documents, language certification (B2 and FSP), a knowledge exam (if required), visa application, and finally the issuance of the Approbation. Other requirements, such as a certificate of good conduct or proof of medical fitness, may also apply depending on the federal state. Get2Germany guides you through each of these steps with clarity and plenty of further information.
• Where can I find all the important information about the Approbation?
  You’ll find everything you need on the Get2Germany platform – from detailed step-by-step guides to required language exams, checklists, and contacts for the responsible authorities in each federal state. No matter where you’re applying, we help you stay organized and informed throughout the process.

The information provided in this article is for general guidance only and does not replace legal advice or official sources. We strive for accuracy, but we recommend consulting the responsible authorities for the most up-to-date requirements.

All information provided without guarantee.