Nursing professionals

Placement of recognised nursing professionals in German hospitals and healthcare facilities

Nursing is one of the most respected and sought-after professions in Germany. Demographic change and growing healthcare needs are creating strong demand for qualified nursing professionals. Studies by the RWI Research Instituts show that staff shortages would become considerably more severe without international professionals. Germany offers committed nursing professionals from abroad excellent career prospects.

Strong demand for nursing professionals

In Germany, there is currently an estimated shortage of 150,000 to 200,000 unfilled nursing positions. By 2035, the estimated additional demand resulting from demographic change is expected to rise to as many as 500,000 nursing staff. Well over 80% to 90% of German nursing facilities and hospitals report significant difficulties in filling open positions. Qualified nursing professionals therefore benefit from excellent prospects in the job market, freedom to choose an employer, and very good career opportunities.

Nursing professions in Germany

Germany has a range of nursing specialisms:

Recognition requirements

You will need:

• Completed nursing training or degree in your home country
• Evidence of sufficient German language skills (at least B2: Goethe, telc or ÖSD)

Required application documents

All documents must be notarised and authenticated by the German embassy.

Your route to employment in Germany

With B1: You may start as a nursing assistant on a work visa.
With B2: You may start directly as a qualified nurse.

Our agency can support you with:

• finding employers at hospitals and care homes
• online interviews

Salary:

• B1: 50–70% of a qualified nurse's gross salary
• B2: 100% gross salary

Note: The nursing authority decides on professional recognition and permission to practise.

Recognition Procedure & Legal Framework

Nursing professionals from third countries (non-EU) require an equivalence certificate or professional recognition from the competent state authority (nursing board or regional council). This confirms that the nursing qualification obtained abroad corresponds to the German reference occupation (qualified nurse / Pflegefachkraft).

Under the updated Skilled Immigration Act (FEG), modern pathways such as Recognition Partnerships and the Fast-Track Procedure for Skilled Workers (§ 81a AufenthG) are available. These allow qualified international nurses to enter Germany faster and complete their recognition efficiently.

Salary and development opportunities

Salary range:

• Nursing trainee (apprenticeship): approx. €1,350–€1,600 gross per month
• Qualified nurse: approx. €3,300–€4,200 gross per month (plus allowances)

Germany offers a wide range of specialisation and further training opportunities.

Areas of responsibility in nursing

Language and communication

Communication is mainly in German.
A B2 language certificate is mandatory for permission to practise.

Job security and long-term prospects

Germany offers nursing professionals long-term security:

Germany warmly welcomes qualified nursing professionals.