Official Expert Answer
Both paths are valid — it depends on your situation and Bundesland:
• Berufserlaubnis (BE): lets you start working (under supervision) and earn while you prepare for the KP/FSP. Downside: it is usually temporary and tied to a specific clinic, and some states issue it only with a job offer or have become restrictive.
• Full Approbation: permanent and not clinic-bound, but you must clear the language and (often) Kenntnisprüfung first, which can mean a longer wait before you earn.
A common smart route: get a job offer + BE to start working and gaining German clinical experience, then complete the Approbation while employed. But if your state rarely grants BE or your file is strong, going straight for Approbation can be faster. Ask your authority what is realistic in your Bundesland before deciding.
• Berufserlaubnis (BE): lets you start working (under supervision) and earn while you prepare for the KP/FSP. Downside: it is usually temporary and tied to a specific clinic, and some states issue it only with a job offer or have become restrictive.
• Full Approbation: permanent and not clinic-bound, but you must clear the language and (often) Kenntnisprüfung first, which can mean a longer wait before you earn.
A common smart route: get a job offer + BE to start working and gaining German clinical experience, then complete the Approbation while employed. But if your state rarely grants BE or your file is strong, going straight for Approbation can be faster. Ask your authority what is realistic in your Bundesland before deciding.