How to work as a foreign doctor in Germany

Thinking about working as a doctor in Germany? Whether you're just starting your medical career or looking to make a move, Germany is renowned for its high-quality healthcare system and offers great opportunities for doctors from around the world.

Place to be: shortage of doctors in Germany

There's a significant shortage of doctors in Germany and this gap is expected to widen in the coming years. Several factors contribute to this need for foreign physicians:

Aging population: Germany has one of the oldest populations in Europe. As the population ages, so does the demand for healthcare services. This growing need for medical care means that more doctors are needed to provide adequate services.

Retiring doctors: many doctors currently working in Germany are approaching retirement age. According to a report by the German Medical Association, around 25% of doctors in Germany are over 60 years old. This is going to create an enormous gap that will need to be filled by newly qualified doctors.

Regional disparities: cities like Berlin and Munich have plenty of doctors, but rural areas struggle to attract and retain physicians. Foreign doctors can help fill this gap by bringing their skills to underserved areas.

Increasing healthcare demand: demand for healthcare services is on the rise, thanks to new medical technology and a greater focus on preventive care. This is putting pressure on the healthcare sector to find more medical professionals.

Advantages of foreign doctors in Germany

• Doctors in Germany get paid well and there are additional benefits like health insurance, paid vacation, and pension plans.
• The country offers excellent public services, clean environments, and a strong economy. 
• You'll have access to modern equipment and facilities which will help you give your patients the best care possible.
• There are many opportunities for ongoing education and training in Germany. You can participate in advanced training programs, attend workshops and stay up to date with the latest medical advancements.
• Doctors usually work regular hours, allowing a good balance between work and personal life.
• The German healthcare system is well-organized and supportive. You'll work in teams with other healthcare professionals.
  
  

Path to becoming a doctor in Germany: approbation process

If you want to work as a doctor in Germany, you need to obtain a medical license known as an approbation. It allows you to work as a fully licensed doctor anywhere in the country.
 

Recognition of foreign medical degrees 

If you got your medical degree outside the EU, you'll need to get it recognized by the German authorities. This means comparing your qualifications with the German standards to make sure they're equivalent. Send your degree certificates, transcripts and other relevant documents to the recognition authorities. These documents must be translated into German by a certified translator.

Eligibility criteria for a medical license

Gather and prepare the necessary documents for your approbation application. These typically include:

• Proof of identity (passport or ID card)
• Curriculum vitae (CV) in German
• Medical degree and transcripts
• Proof of German language proficiency
• Certificates of good standing from medical boards or licensing authorities in your home country
• Health certificate proving you are fit to practice medicine
• Criminal record check
  
  

Language tests for physicians

Knowing German is important because you'll be talking to patients in order to diagnose and treat them. You also must know and use medical terms in German for accurate documentation and prescriptions. Working in German hospitals and clinics means you'll be part of a team where German is the primary language. Being able to speak the language helps you to fit in and work well with other healthcare professionals.

To get your medical license, you'll need to pass language proficiency exams like the Telc B2-C1 Medizin or the Goethe-Zertifikat C1. You'll also need to take the “Fachsprachprüfung" which assesses medical language skills, including patient interviews, medical documentation, and professional communication with colleagues.

Some German states have different language and medical qualification requirements. Check with the state medical board for more information.

Medical knowledge assessment (“Kenntnisprüfung“) 

If your medical degree isn't fully recognized, you need to take an additional exam called “Kenntnisprüfung". This exam tests your medical knowledge and makes sure it meets German standards. The Kenntnisprüfung covers various medical disciplines, such as Internal Medicine, Surgery, Emergency Medicine, Pharmacology and Radiology. It's usually taken after you've received a temporary license (“Berufserlaubnis") and worked under supervision for a period.

1. Oral-practical exam

• Patient examination: You’ll examine a patient, take their medical history and do a physical exam.
• Case presentation: You’ll discuss your findings with a panel of doctors, suggest possible diagnoses and recommend treatments.
• Questioning: The panel will ask you questions about the case and other medical topics.

2. Written exam (Sometimes)

Some states also have a written test with multiple-choice or short-answer questions covering a range of medical subjects.

You can take the Kenntnisprüfung either before or after the Fachsprachprüfung but we recommend doing the Fachsprachprüfung first. This language exam gives you more confidence and makes sure you can present medical facts clearly in German. Apply at least 6 months before the Kenntnisprüfung so that you have enough time to prepare. The cost of the exam varies by state, typically between €400 and €1,100.

Once you've passed the Kenntnisprüfung, you'll get a certificate of eligibility (Gleichwertigkeitsbescheinigung). This lets you apply for the approbation (full medical license). After about 4 to 5 years of working as a doctor, you must pass the Facharztprüfung to complete your postgraduate training and become a specialist in your field.

Temporary license (“Berufserlaubnis“)

While waiting for your approbation, you can apply for a temporary license (“Berufserlaubnis“). This license allows you to work under supervision in a hospital or clinic, giving you the chance to gain practical experience in the German healthcare system. It's usually valid for a limited period and can be extended until you obtain your approbation.

“Anerkennungspartnerschaft“ and “Anerkennungsverfahren“

The “Anerkennungspartnerschaft“ (recognition partnership) and “Anerkennungsverfahren“ (recognition procedure) help foreign professionals throughout the recognition process. These initiatives provide guidance and support to make sure your qualifications are recognized, and you can start working as soon as possible.

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Careers in medicine in Germany: salary for doctors

One of the most appealing aspects of working as a doctor or a nurse in Germany is the competitive salary. Here's an overview of what you can expect to earn at different stages of your medical career in Germany.

What factors affect your salary as a doctor in Germany?

• Experience and qualifications: More experienced doctors and those with specialized skills or additional certifications receive higher salaries.
• Location: Doctors in larger cities such as Berlin, Munich and Frankfurt often earn more than those in smaller towns or rural areas due to the higher cost of living and increased demand for medical services.
• Type of healthcare facility: Doctors working in large, prestigious hospitals or private clinics tend to earn more than those in smaller public hospitals or general practices.
  
  

Additional resources for medical training & Co.

From understanding licensing requirements and preparing for exams to finding job opportunities and integrating into the healthcare system – these additional resources will help you navigate the process of becoming a doctor in Germany.  

• German Medical Association (Bundesärztekammer): information about the medical profession in Germany, including licensing requirements, continuing medical education and professional development.
• Federal Office of Administration (Bundesverwaltungsamt): detailed guidance on the recognition process and necessary documents.
• State Medical Boards (Landesprüfungsämter): contact information and specific requirements for your state.
• Language Learning Resources: Deutsche Welle and Babbel offer German language courses tailored to various proficiency levels.