Many qualified doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals from countries such as Egypt, Turkey, and beyond are choosing Germany to continue their medical careers. To work legally, however, foreign qualifications must be officially recognized through the Feststellung der Gleichwertigkeit (Recognition of Equivalence) procedure. This process is usually handled by the relevant state authority, such as the Bezirksregierung or the Landesprüfungsamt, and requires the submission of numerous documents — all accompanied by certified translations completed by sworn translators in Germany.
The Recognition Process: Key Documents
Applicants must fill out the official form “Antrag auf Feststellung der Gleichwertigkeit” for qualifications obtained outside the EU, EEA, or Switzerland. It covers professions such as physicians, nurses, physiotherapists, laboratory technologists, and pharmacists. The form and its accompanying Merkblatt specify that only certified translations from original documents or certified copies are accepted. Translations made from simple scans or uncertified copies will not be processed.
The following documents generally require certified translation:
- University diploma or medical degree
- Diploma supplement or transcript with study hours
- Internship or practical training certificate
- License to practice medicine or professional registration
- Proof of professional experience (employment certificates)
- Identification document (passport)
- Marriage certificate or name change document, if applicable
Translations Must Be Made from Original Documents
According to the Merkblatt of the Bezirksregierung, all certified translations must be created from original documents or German-certified copies. Translations based on scans, photos, or simple photocopies are not recognized. This means that in most cases, the translator must physically inspect the original documents to verify authenticity and accuracy.
For this reason, applicants often need to ship their original documents (or notarized copies from a German authority or consulate) to the sworn translator before the translation can begin. Once the certified translations are completed, the originals are safely returned along with the bound translations, which include the translator’s stamp and signature.
Who Can Produce Certified Translations?
Only sworn translators in Germany (beeidigte Übersetzer) are authorized to produce translations valid for submission to the Bezirksregierung or Landesprüfungsamt. These translators are officially registered by German courts and follow the legal wording required by §34 of the Justizgesetz NRW (Justice Act of North Rhine-Westphalia). The standard certification phrase confirms the accuracy and completeness of the translation and includes the translator’s official seal and date.
Do you need a certified translation of your documents?
INSTANT QUOTESubmission to the Bezirksregierung or Landesprüfungsamt
Once translations are complete, they are submitted together with the Antrag auf Feststellung der Gleichwertigkeit and other required documents to the Bezirksregierung. The authority evaluates whether the applicant’s education and training are equivalent to German standards. If equivalence is not fully established, applicants may be required to complete an Anpassungslehrgang (adaptation course) or pass a Kenntnisprüfung (knowledge test).
Applications for recognition of foreign medical qualifications follow similar requirements across authorities. Both the Bezirksregierung and the Landesprüfungsamt require certified translations that can be legally verified and directly attached to the recognition file.
Practical Tips for Applicants
- Collect all original diplomas, certificates, and transcripts before beginning your translation process.
- Ensure your translator is sworn in Germany and authorized for your language combination.
- Ship your documents securely via a reliable courier service and request tracking for safety.
- Keep copies or scans of all documents before sending them for translation.
- Begin the translation process early to avoid delays in your recognition or visa application.
Conclusion: Certified Translations Are a Crucial Step for Medical Recognition
For doctors and healthcare professionals seeking to work in Germany, certified translations are a vital part of the recognition process. Whether your application is handled by the Bezirksregierung or the Landesprüfungsamt, translations must come from sworn translators in Germany and be made from original documents. Taking the time to prepare and send your materials correctly ensures a smooth recognition process and helps you take the next step in your German medical career.
