Licence to practise (Approbation) for doctors from outside the EU

The Approbation is the permanent state licence to practise as a doctor in Germany. Without it – or a temporary licence (Berufserlaubnis) – you may not work as a doctor. For degrees from outside the EU, for example from Georgia, the procedure works like this.

1. Application to the licensing authority

The licensing authority (Approbationsbehörde) of the federal state where you want to work is responsible. It checks whether your medical degree is equivalent to the German one.

2. Documents

• Diploma and transcript of subjects and hours
• Proof of your licence in your home country and a Certificate of Good Standing
• CV, employment references and, if applicable, specialist certificate
• Passport, birth certificate, police clearance certificate and medical certificate
• Language certificate

The documents usually need certified copies and certified translations. We help you not to forget anything.

3. German: B2 and the medical language exam at C1

You need general German at level B2 and must pass the medical language exam (Fachsprachprüfung). At level C1 it tests whether you can communicate safely with patients and colleagues – for example when taking a medical history, in documentation and in conversations with other doctors. It is usually held by the medical association (Ärztekammer).

4. Aptitude test (Kenntnisprüfung)

If equivalence cannot be established, you take an aptitude test. It is an oral-practical exam based on the content of the German state examination. Good preparation courses help a lot.

5. Temporary licence as an intermediate step

After passing the medical language exam, a temporary licence to practise can often be granted, usually for up to two years. With it you can already work as a doctor under supervision while you prepare for the aptitude test.

6. How long does it take?

The whole procedure often takes one to two years – depending on the federal state, your documents and your German level. Recognition as a specialist is a separate procedure at the medical association.

Official information

• Recognition in Germany: www.anerkennung-in-deutschland.de/html/en/
• Make it in Germany: www.make-it-in-germany.com/en/

Good to know

As of October 2026. Rules differ between federal states and change from time to time. This article is not legal advice – we are happy to look at your case personally.