Settling in Germany in the nursing sector is one of the widely promoted pathways, as Germany faces a severe nursing shortage. Settling in Germany’s nursing sector involves several dedicated programs. This article analyzes the opportunities and realities.
Settling in Germany in the Nursing Sector: Why the Demand
Settling in Germany’s nursing sector meets extremely high demand due to rapid population aging. Germany needs around 300,000 additional nurses by 2030, according to reports from the Ministry of Health. Both hospital nursing (Krankenpflege) and elderly care (Altenpflege) face shortages.
The starting salary for graduate nurses in Germany is around EUR 2,800 to 3,500 per month, which can be higher at public hospitals and in certain states. This is one of the occupations with many programs designed to attract workers from outside the EU.
The Pathway to Settlement for Nurses
There are two main pathways. One is the Ausbildung in nursing (3 years, training at a vocational school and working at a hospital), suited to Vietnamese who do not yet hold a nursing qualification. The other is recognition of a Vietnamese nursing degree through the Anerkennung process, suited to those who already hold a degree from Vietnam.
Nursing is a regulated profession in Germany, requiring a professional practice licence (Berufserlaubnis) before working in full capacity. The recognition process is managed by each federal state and takes 3-12 months depending on the application and the state. B2-level German is required in most states.
Practical notes
Settling in Germany in the nursing field requires a strong commitment to learning German (B2 is usually required), a demanding work environment (night shifts, pressure), and is often tied to a third-party recruitment program. Interested candidates should realistically assess the profession.
Before joining a program, carefully check the legal standing of the recruiting organization and the contract terms. Avoid programs charging unusually high fees or making unrealistic promises. Regulations may be updated, so check official sources.
You should refer to the Make it in Germany portal and Germany’s dual vocational training system to check current conditions.
Summary
Settling in Germany in the nursing field is in high demand (a shortage of roughly 300,000 by 2030 is projected). Starting salaries are 2,800-3,500 EUR/month. Two pathways: a 3-year nursing Ausbildung, or recognition of a Vietnamese degree via Anerkennung. As a regulated profession, it requires a Berufserlaubnis and B2-level German (managed by each federal state). Assess the profession realistically before going, and check the recruiting organization’s standing.
