In short: With a recognition partnership, a nurse from a non-EU country can enter Germany, work for an employer and carry out the recognition procedure only after entry. According to Make it in Germany, the permit is first issued for up to 12 months and can be extended up to a maximum of three years; with partial equivalence by up to two further years.
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.
How does it work?
The nurse and the employer agree on a recognition partnership. The nurse works in a job leading towards the target profession, while the recognition procedure runs in Germany. Secondary employment up to 20 hours a week is allowed.
Typical requirements
- a vocational qualification recognised by the state of origin requiring at least two years of training, or a university degree
- German language skills, as a rule at least A2 level
- an employment contract and an agreement on the recognition partnership
- for nursing: an approved care facility under § 72 SGB XI or another employer meeting the legal conditions
The details are set out in § 16d (3) AufenthG; the competent authorities check them case by case.
Partial equivalence
If the recognition procedure finds partial equivalence, the employer must enable the nurse to compensate the deficits, for example through a knowledge test or adaptation course. The permit can then be extended by up to two further years.
How Berlin Tehran helps
We help healthcare professionals prepare their documents in an orderly way and coordinate with employers, 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 (see our ethical recruitment rules). We do not provide legal advice; authorities make all decisions.
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Frequently asked questions
Can I start working before my qualification is recognised?
Yes, within a recognition partnership under § 16d (3), in a job that leads to the target profession, while recognition runs in Germany.
How long is the permit valid?
According to Make it in Germany, first for up to 12 months, extendable up to three years; with partial equivalence by up to two further years.
What German level is needed?
As a rule at least A2 for the recognition partnership; for the full nursing licence the federal states usually expect more (often B2).