Nursing assistant in Germany (Pflegehelfer)
A nursing assistant (Pflegehelfer) supports nurses day to day. A role in high demand, quick to enter, and an ideal first step towards becoming a qualified nurse in Germany.
The profession
A nursing assistant helps patients with daily activities (washing, meals, mobility), takes vital signs and supports the nursing team, especially with elderly and dependent people.
Salary in Germany
Around €2,500 to €3,300 gross per month. In the public sector (TVöD-P, group P6) from about €3,000 to €4,000 with seniority. Night and weekend premiums on top.
Training duration
The nursing-assistant training lasts 1 to 2 years depending on the state (mostly school-based). It is also a stepping stone to the full nursing training (3 years).
Employers hiring
Care homes, home-care services, hospitals and clinics, faith-based providers (Caritas, Diakonie). Demand is strong across Germany.
Where you can work
Elderly-care facilities, home care, hospital wards and facilities for people with disabilities.
Career progression
A nursing assistant can progress to registered nurse (Pflegefachkraft) through further training, then specialise or move into leadership roles.
German level required
B2 is the target to work confidently and progress. Karriere Fähre trains you up to B2 in Douala, before departure.
Recognition
Depending on the state and your background, recognition or a work authorisation may be required. We build the file with you.
Visa and residence permit
Skilled-worker visa (§ 18a/18b) once the qualification is recognised, or a training visa (§ 16a) for the Ausbildung. We handle the paperwork.
The process with Karriere Fähre
Profile assessment, German up to B2, file and recognition, employer matching, visa and paperwork, then support with settling in.
Frequently asked questions
- Can you become a nurse afterwards?
- Yes. The nursing-assistant role is a great entry point: further training leads to the registered-nurse qualification (Pflegefachkraft).
- Do I need German?
- We train you from beginner up to B2 before departure, in Douala.
Salaries: Entgeltatlas (Federal Employment Agency) and the TVöD-P scale, 2025. Public reference figures, not guaranteed. Recognition and visas: competent German authorities.