Berufserlaubnis for Doctors in Germany 2026: Everything You Need to Know

What is the Berufserlaubnis for doctors?

The Berufserlaubnis is a temporary permit to practice the medical profession in Germany. It is intended for foreign doctors whose qualifications have not yet been fully recognized or who are still waiting for their Approbation.

In contrast to the Approbation, the Berufserlaubnis is limited in time (usually 1–2 years) and is specific to a Federal State.

Berufserlaubnis vs. Approbation: The Difference

Feature	Berufserlaubnis	Approbation
Validity	1–2 years (renewable)	Unlimited
Validity	Only in the issuing Federal State	Germany-wide
Requirement	Sufficient language skills (min. B2)	FSP passed + Equivalence
Use	Work immediately while preparing for the KP	Permanent status

Requirements for the Berufserlaubnis 2026

The exact requirements vary by Federal State, but typically you will need:

• Sufficient German language skills — at least B2, in many states C1
• Medical degree — certified copy + translation
• Certificate of good conduct from your home country and Germany
• Health certificate (in some Federal States)
• Proof of employment (Hospital, Hospital, Medical Practice)

Step-by-Step: Applying for the Berufserlaubnis 2026

Step 1: Choose a Federal State

Choose the Federal State where you would like to work. Each Federal State has its own Waiting Periods and authorities. Bavaria, NRW, and Baden-Württemberg have large hospitals with extensive experience in hiring foreign doctors.

Step 2: Find an employer

You need a specific employment contract or a commitment from a German employer. Many hospitals hire foreign doctors with a Berufserlaubnis while the Approbation is still pending.

Step 3: Gather documents

Obtain all required documents in good time. Certified translations into German are mandatory — only sworn translators are accepted.

Step 4: Submit application to the competent authority

Submit the application to the Medical Chamber or the competent state ministry. Waiting Periods: 4–12 weeks depending on the Federal State.

Step 5: During the Berufserlaubnis: Prepare for the KP

Use the time under the Berufserlaubnis to prepare for the Kenntnisprüfung (KP) and the Fachsprachprüfung (FSP), if not already passed.

Important Deadlines and Facts 2026

• The Berufserlaubnis can be extended multiple times, but most authorities set a maximum period of 4 years.
• In case of failing the KP, the Berufserlaubnis can become problematic after the 2nd Attempt.
• 2024 Update: Some Federal States now require the FSP certificate before issuing the Berufserlaubnis.

How Kennti.com helps you

Whether you are preparing for the FSP or KP, or need an individual Consultation regarding your specific situation — Kennti.com accompanies foreign doctors on the entire path to the Approbation.