Frequently Asked Questions

Here you will find answers to the questions we are asked most frequently during consultations. If your question is not listed, simply send us a message.

Process and Duration

How long does it take to get my medical license (Approbation) recognized in Germany?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer, as it depends entirely on where you currently stand. The decisive factor is whether your documents are already complete: translated, certified, and, depending on your country of origin, apostilled or legalized. Anyone who has completed this groundwork starts at a completely different stage than someone who still needs to obtain documents from their home country.

From the time your documents are submitted, the entire process takes about 9 to 12 months if you take the medical knowledge test (Kenntnisprüfung) route. The equivalence assessment (Gutachtenweg) route typically takes 12 to 18 months, provided you receive a positive decision. If deficits are identified that you still need to make up for, it will take correspondingly longer, depending on the number and nature of these deficits.

During our initial consultation, we assess your current status and outline your next steps.

Which documents do I need for the application?

This depends on two factors: the federal state in which you apply, and the pathway you choose, namely, the equivalence assessment (Gleichwertigkeitsgutachten) or the medical knowledge test (Kenntnisprüfung). The requirements of the federal states can differ in key areas.

Let us know which federal state you have in mind, and we will put together the right checklist for you.

What is the difference between an Approbation and a Berufserlaubnis?

An Approbation is the permanent state license to practice medicine in Germany. A Berufserlaubnis, on the other hand, only allows you to practice medicine on a temporary basis for a maximum of two years under supervision.

The distinction is not merely legal: in practice, finding a job with a temporary Berufserlaubnis is often significantly more difficult.

Do I have to take the medical knowledge test (Kenntnisprüfung), or is there a way around it?

Besides the Kenntnisprüfung, there is the equivalence assessment route (Gleichwertigkeitsgutachten). In practice, however, the Kenntnisprüfung usually leads to licensure much faster.

Which pathway is better suited for you depends on your medical education and documentation. We will clarify this together before you make a commitment.

In which federal state is the recognition process fastest?

There is no reliable answer to this, and anyone who gives you one is oversimplifying. Processing times depend on how many applications the authority is currently receiving, its staffing levels, and the workload of the responsible case officer.

All three factors are constantly changing; any ranking of federal states would be outdated within a few months.

Language

What level of German do I really need?

To submit your application, you should have B2-level German proficiency. For the Approbation itself, you will also need to pass the medical language exam (Fachsprachprüfung), which corresponds to C1 level with a medical focus.

What exactly is required in the medical language exam (Fachsprachprüfung)?

In the medical language exam (FSP), you will conduct a doctor-patient consultation, present a colleague-to-colleague case (doctor-doctor conversation), and write a medical report (Arztbrief). The exam generally takes about 60 minutes.

The format varies depending on the federal state in which you submitted your application.

How long does it take to reach the required level of German?

We have dedicated a separate article to this topic because the answer depends on too many individual factors to summarize in just a few sentences: Roughly how long does it take to learn German?

Entry and Residence

Which visa do I need as a doctor from a non-EU country?

For the recognition of professional qualifications obtained abroad, there is a dedicated visa under Section 16d of the Residence Act (§ 16d Aufenthaltsgesetz). It is specifically designed for the phase between entering Germany and completing the recognition process.

Can I enter Germany before my recognition is complete?

You can, but you don't have to. In most cases, we advise staying in your home country as long as possible, primarily to keep costs down.

A great deal can be prepared remotely. We will discuss with you when entering Germany makes the most sense.

Am I allowed to work during the process?

Yes. If you are already in Germany and waiting for your Approbation, there are employment options.

Which options apply to you depends on your residence permit and the status of your recognition procedure.

Costs

What are the official fees for the recognition process?

Official fees vary depending on the federal state, ranging between €300 and €600. Translations and notarized certifications incur additional costs.

If you relocate to Germany, you will also need a blocked account (Sperrkonto) containing approximately €12,000, from which you can withdraw a set monthly allowance, plus your local living expenses. Depending on your needs, there may also be costs for language training and preparation courses for the Fachsprachprüfung and Kenntnisprüfung.

How much do your consultancy and support services cost?

We offer various service packages and create a tailored proposal for each client based on what you actually need. A flat-rate price would not do justice to individual requirements.

Are there any financial grants or subsidies available?

Yes. We help you unlock all potential funding options that apply to your situation.

Working with YANA

What do you handle, and what do I need to do myself?

You must obtain the required documents from your home country yourself and handle any necessary administrative steps there, as we unfortunately cannot do this for you. We can take care of everything else.

Do you also assist pharmacists and psychotherapists?

Yes. In addition to physicians, we also support pharmacists and psychotherapists.

How do I get started?

Send us a message. In a free initial consultation, we will assess your current situation and outline your next steps, completely without obligation.

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