Service Details

To work as a physiotherapist in Germany, foreign-trained professionals need to have their qualifications recognized and meet certain regulatory and professional requirements. Here’s a step-by-step guide to the accreditation process:

1. German Language Proficiency
2. B2-Level German: You must provide proof of German language proficiency, typically at the B2 level. You can obtain this certification from recognized institutions like the Goethe Institute or Telc.
3. Some federal states may require a specific medical language exam (Fachsprachprüfung) for healthcare professionals, but this depends on the region.
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2. Recognition of Foreign Physiotherapy Qualification
3. Application to the Recognition Authority: Apply for recognition of your foreign qualification at the relevant state authority. This is usually the state’s health ministry or another Anerkennungsstelle (recognition office).
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5. Required Documents:
   • Physiotherapy Degree/Certificate: A copy of your physiotherapy qualification.
   • Transcripts: Detailed academic records from your studies, including coursework and practical training.
   • Proof of Work Experience: If applicable, submit documentation of your professional experience.
   • Proof of Identity: Passport or national ID.
   • CV (Curriculum Vitae): A comprehensive CV outlining your education and professional history.
   • Health Certificate: A medical certificate from a German doctor confirming that you are fit to work as a physiotherapist.
   • Proof of Good Conduct: A criminal record clearance certificate from your home country and/or Germany.
6. Certified Translations: All documents not in German must be translated by a certified translator. Some documents may also need to be officially certified.

3. Equivalence Check (Defizitbescheid)

• The authorities will assess whether your qualification is equivalent to German standards for physiotherapists. If your qualification is from an EU/EEA country, it is often recognized automatically. However, if you are from a non-EU country, the process may require additional steps.
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• Outcome of the Check:
  • Full Recognition: If your degree is equivalent, you will receive full recognition and can start working.
  • Partial Recognition: If there are gaps in your education or training compared to German standards, you may be required to complete additional training or pass an exam.
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4. Additional Training or Adaptation Period

• Compensatory Measures: If there are significant differences between your qualification and German standards, you may need to complete further training, known as a recognition or adaptation course (Anpassungslehrgang).
• Examination (Kenntnisprüfung): In some cases, you may be required to pass a knowledge examination (Kenntnisprüfung), which tests your practical and theoretical skills in physiotherapy according to German standards.
• Work While Training: In certain cases, you may be able to work under supervision with a temporary permit while you complete additional requirements.

5. Final Recognition and License to Practice

• After completing any required training or exams, you will receive full recognition of your qualification and be granted a license to work as a physiotherapist in Germany.
• For non-EU citizens, this step allows you to apply for a work visa and residence permit to live and work in Germany.

6. Registration with Professional Associations

• Once recognized, you may need to register with the relevant professional associations or health authorities in your federal state. Registration is important for ensuring compliance with professional standards and gaining access to continuing education opportunities.

7. Work Visa and Residency Permit (Non-EU Citizens)

• Visa: If you are from a non-EU country, you need to apply for a work visa. You can start this process once your qualifications are recognized.
• Residence Permit: Once in Germany, you need to apply for a residence permit based on your employment as a physiotherapist.