In short: Midwifery is a regulated profession in Germany. Since 2020 midwives are trained at university level under the Midwifery Act (HebG). International midwives need recognition of their qualification and a licence to use the title "Hebamme"; the competent state authority checks equivalence and German language skills.
Note: This page provides general information and is not legal advice. The law and the decisions of the competent authorities are decisive; rules can change. As of October 2026.
Recognition
The competent authority compares your midwifery qualification with the German degree programme. If there are substantial differences, you can close them with a knowledge test or an adaptation course. Nursing degrees with a midwifery module are assessed individually.
Language
The required German skills are checked by the authority; in practice usually B2, sometimes with a profession-specific exam.
Where midwives work
In hospital delivery rooms, birth centres or self-employed (freelance) in pre- and postnatal care. Self-employment involves additional registration and insurance duties.
How Berlin Tehran helps
We help healthcare professionals prepare their documents in an orderly way and coordinate with employers in Germany, following a transparent 8-step process with up to 90 days of support after arrival. We are specialised in Iran and support healthcare professionals from all countries where private recruitment is permitted. We do not provide legal advice; authorities make all decisions.
Apply as a healthcare professional Our ethical recruitment rules
Related guides
- Recognition: time and cost
- German language requirements
- Ethical recruitment rules
- Apply with Berlin Tehran
Frequently asked questions
Is midwifery regulated in Germany?
Yes. You need a licence under the Midwifery Act to use the title Hebamme.
Can a nurse work as a midwife in Germany?
Only with a recognised midwifery qualification; nursing recognition does not include midwifery.
Which German level do midwives need?
Usually B2, as determined by the competent authority.