Doctor in Germany (Arzt)
Germany is short of doctors and actively recruits internationally. The path runs through the Approbation (licence to practise) and strong German; Karriere Fähre supports you at every step.
The profession
A doctor diagnoses and treats patients in hospitals, clinics or practices. Junior doctors usually start as an Assistenzarzt (in specialty training).
Salary in Germany
An Assistenzarzt earns from around €5,400 gross per month in year 1 to about €7,100 after five to six years. Specialists (Facharzt) earn more.
Duration
The medical degree (about 6 years) is not repeated. The timeline depends on the Approbation and language. Specialty training (Facharzt) then takes 5 to 6 years.
Employers hiring
Public hospitals and university clinics, large private groups (Helios, Asklepios, Sana), medical centres and practices. Rural areas are especially affected.
Where you can work
All hospital specialties, general medicine, specialist clinics and, in time, one's own practice.
Career progression
After becoming a Facharzt you can advance to senior physician (Oberarzt) then head of department (Chefarzt), teach or set up a practice.
German level required
B2 in general German plus a medical-language exam (Fachsprachprüfung, C1 level) required by most regional medical chambers (Ärztekammer).
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 medical chamber.
Visa and residence permit
Visa then residence permit for skilled workers (§ 18a/18b). Entry to prepare the Approbation on site is possible (§ 16d). We handle these steps with you.
The process with Karriere Fähre
Profile assessment, general then medical German, Approbation file, matching with a hospital, visa and paperwork, then support with settling in.
Frequently asked questions
- Do I need to redo medical studies?
- No. Your degree is assessed for the Approbation; a knowledge exam (Kenntnisprüfung) may be required, but not full new studies.
- What German level for a doctor?
- General B2 and a medical-language exam (Fachsprachprüfung, C1). We prepare you for both.
Salaries: TV-Ärzte (VKA/TdL) agreements and specialist sources (doctari), 2025-2026. Indicative figures, not guaranteed. Approbation, recognition and visas: competent German authorities (medical chamber, state authority).