Nursing aide (Krankenpflegehelfer)
The nursing aide (Krankenpflegehelfer) supports the care team in hospitals and facilities. A short training, a quick entry and a springboard to becoming a nurse.
The profession
The nursing aide helps patients with washing, meals and mobility, takes vital signs and supports nurses with basic care.
Salary in Germany
Around €2,500 to €3,300 gross per month; in the public sector (TVöD-P) up to about €4,000 with seniority, plus premiums.
Training duration
Training lasts 1 to 2 years depending on the state (mostly school-based). It is a stepping stone to the full nursing training (3 years).
Employers hiring
Hospitals and clinics, care homes, home-care services and faith-based providers (Caritas, Diakonie).
Where you can work
Hospital wards, elderly-care facilities, home care and long-term care.
Career progression
Progression to registered nurse (Pflegefachkraft) through further training, then specialisations and leadership.
German level required
B2 is targeted to work and progress. Karriere Fähre trains you up to B2 in Douala.
Recognition
Via the Ausbildung you obtain the German qualification directly, with no prior recognition.
Visa and residence permit
Training visa (§ 16a) for the Ausbildung. We handle the steps with you.
The process with Karriere Fähre
Profile assessment, German up to B2, application, employer matching, visa and paperwork, then support with settling in.
Frequently asked questions
- Can you become a nurse afterwards?
- Yes, 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. Indicative figures, not guaranteed. Recognition and visas: competent German authorities.