Dentist in Germany (Zahnarzt)
Germany is recruiting dentists. The path runs through the Approbation (licence to practise) and strong German; Karriere Fähre supports you at every step.
The profession
The dentist diagnoses and treats oral and dental conditions, delivering care, prevention and dental surgery, in a practice or clinic.
Salary in Germany
An employed dentist earns a median of around €6,900 gross per month, from about €5,700 to €9,000 depending on experience, practice type and region; owning a practice raises earnings.
Duration
The dental degree is not repeated. The timeline depends on the Approbation and language; a knowledge exam may be required.
Employers hiring
Dental practices, dental centres and clinics, across the country, with strong demand in rural areas.
Where you can work
General dentistry, orthodontics, oral surgery, employed and, in time, in your own practice.
Career progression
Specialisations, partnership in a practice, or setting up your own practice with your own patients.
German level required
B2 in general German plus a medical-language exam (Fachsprachprüfung, C1) required by the dental chamber.
Recognition
To practise you need the Approbation from the state authority, with a knowledge exam (Kenntnisprüfung) if equivalence is not direct, plus membership of the dental chamber.
Visa and residence permit
Visa then residence permit for skilled workers (§ 18a/18b), or entry to prepare the Approbation on site (§ 16d). We handle these steps.
The process with Karriere Fähre
Profile assessment, general then medical German, Approbation file, matching with a practice, visa and paperwork, then support with settling in.
Frequently asked questions
- What German level for a dentist?
- General B2 and a medical-language exam (Fachsprachprüfung, C1). We prepare you for both.
- Do I need to redo my studies?
- No. Your degree is assessed for the Approbation; a knowledge exam may be required, but not full new studies.
Salaries: dental salary study 2025 (Dentalwelt/apoBank) and medi-karriere. Indicative figures, not guaranteed. Approbation, recognition and visas: competent German authorities (dental chamber, state authority).