Recognition of Foreign Qualifications in Germany (Anerkennung)

Document Checklist

Antrag auf Anerkennung Application for recognition Required: Profession-specific application form provided by the zuständige Stelle, or a written application in GermanWhere to get: Anerkennungs-Finder on the Recognition Portal links to the form for your ReferenzberufCost: Form itself is free Application is filed in German. The Anerkennungs-Finder identifies the form for your specific Referenzberuf (reference occupation) and the zuständige Stelle (competent authority — varies by profession and Land).
Identitätsnachweis Proof of identity Required: Passport, national ID card, or German residence document (eAT, Ankunftsnachweis, Aufenthaltsgestattung, Duldung)Cost: Already issued Non-Latin-script IDs may require transcription. Submit a marriage certificate if your name has changed since the qualification was awarded.
Nachweis der Berufsqualifikation Evidence of professional qualification Required: Diploma, Abschlussurkunde or final certificate from your foreign trainingTranslation: German translation by a publicly appointed and sworn translator (öffentlich bestellt und beeidigt)Cost: Translation typically €30–€80 per page; certification typically €5–€15 per document Submit officially certified copies rather than originals — the Recognition Portal explicitly advises against sending originals. Certified copies remain in the original language.
Nachweis über Inhalt und Dauer der Ausbildung Evidence of content and duration of training Required: Subject list, transcript of records, study record book or diploma supplementTranslation: German translation by a publicly appointed and sworn translatorCost: Translation cost as above Detailed content evidence supports the equivalence assessment against the Referenzberuf. The more granular the subject-and-hours breakdown, the easier the comparison.
Lebenslauf Curriculum vitae Required: Tabular CV summarising vocational training, academic training, advanced training, and work historyLanguage: Prepare directly in GermanCost: Self-prepared A standard German tabular CV format is preferred. List dates, employers, roles, and any continuing training.
Nachweis der Berufserfahrung Evidence of professional experience Required: Arbeitszeugnisse (work references), employer letters, or service-book entries documenting practical experienceTranslation: German translation by a sworn translator where the original is not in GermanCost: Translation cost as above Required where applicable — particularly important when the foreign training is shorter than the German Referenzberuf and experience helps demonstrate equivalence.
Erklärung zu bereits gestellten Anträgen Statement on prior applications Required: Written declaration whether a previous Anerkennung application has been filed elsewhere in GermanyLanguage: GermanCost: Self-prepared Required for regulated professions. Helps the zuständige Stelle avoid duplicate procedures.

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