It is a path that, where the official requirements are met, allows the candidate to enter Germany and to start or complete professional recognition after arrival, under a written agreement with the employer.
Recognition Partnership in NursingA structured path to recognition after arrival
Organisational support with contract documents, recognition procedures and arrival.
The recognition partnership at a glance
Requirements differ by qualification, federal state and competent authority, and every case must be reviewed separately. This page does not provide individual legal advice.
Key requirements
- Qualification: A university degree or vocational qualification officially recognised in the country where it was obtained. A vocational qualification must involve at least two years of full-time training. The visa application requires the appropriate evidence: a positive ZAB statement for vocational qualifications, or a statement of comparability or suitable positive anabin assessment for university degrees.
- German language skills: At least CEFR level A2 for the recognition partnership. Higher levels may be required for qualification measures and subsequent nursing licensure; A2 alone does not authorise work as a fully recognised nursing professional.
- A suitable employer is available.
- A contract or job offer exists.
- A written agreement on recognition is in place.
- The candidate is ready to complete recognition and the qualification measure.
- The employer is able to support the qualification procedures.
Further requirements and current evidence: Make it in Germany – Visa for a recognition partnership. The competent authorities decide on the application.
These points are for general orientation only. Content last reviewed: 6 September 2026.
The two paths compared
| Classic path | Anerkennungspartnerschaft |
|---|---|
| Recognition usually starts before arrival. | Contract and written agreement with the employer. |
| The candidate awaits the authority's decision before some entry steps. | Recognition can be started or completed after arrival where requirements are met. |
| The Defizitbescheid is known before arrival in many cases. | Employer and nurse commit to completing recognition. |
| A path familiar to many competent authorities. | Work before full recognition is only possible within the legally permitted limits. |
Required documents
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Candidate documents
- degree certificate
- transcript of subjects and hours
- employment references
- professional licence
- language certificate
- identity document
- additional documents depending on the authority
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Employer documents
- employment contract or job offer
- job description
- documents on the employment relationship
- Anerkennungspartnerschaft agreement
- documents on the qualification measure
- signatures and authorisations where required
Check documents for completeness and form.
DokTing's role
- Organising the candidate's file.
- Coordinating translations and certifications.
- Record and compile the documents requested.
- Record notified appointments and coordinate correspondence.
- Coordinating the employer's documents.
- Following the case across recognition, entry and arrival.
- Updating employer and candidate.
- Following up the completion of recognition after arrival.
Next step
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Organisational initial intake – free of charge
Start Initial Assessment⌂