The Germany nursing visa is one of the most sought-after pathways in the skilled settlement group, as Germany faces a severe shortage of nursing staff due to its aging population. For skilled Vietnamese nurses, this is a clear opportunity to work in Germany in their profession and move toward long-term settlement.
Why the Germany Nursing Visa Offers Many Opportunities
Nursing and caregiving is one of the occupation groups with the clearest shortage in Germany. High demand means better job opportunities and, at times, more favorable conditions for foreign workers.
Notably, nurses and midwives are now included in Germany’s expanded shortage occupation list. This makes it easier for many candidates to access the German labor market than before, as long as they meet the professional and language requirements.
Two Core Requirements: Qualification Recognition and German B2
The two most important factors are recognition of your nursing qualification and German language proficiency. Under the regulations, working as a skilled nurse in Germany requires at least German B2 under the CEFR framework, since the job requires direct professional communication with patients.
Foreign qualifications must be assessed as equivalent to Germany’s nursing standard. You can read more about the process in the article on qualification recognition in Germany and the language requirements in the article German language level.
Two Pathways Based on the Recognition Outcome
Theo the official Make it in Germany portal of the German Government, the recognition outcome determines your pathway:
- Full recognition: you are granted a practicing license and can work under Section 18a.
- Partial recognition: you go to Germany for supplementary training under Section 16d (an adaptation course or knowledge exam), then complete the recognition process.
Since nursing is a strictly regulated profession, qualification recognition is a mandatory step before practicing officially. This is a key difference from some unregulated professions.
Fast-Track Procedure and Timeline
The equivalency assessment process usually takes about 3 to 4 months. If you already have a German employer, your case can follow the fast-track procedure for skilled workers to shorten the timeline.
You can learn more in the article accelerated skilled worker procedure in Germany. Preparing your qualification documents and learning the language in parallel can significantly shorten the overall timeline.
Advice for Vietnamese Nurses
You should start learning German early and submit your qualification recognition application as soon as possible. These are two things you can do in parallel while still in Vietnam, before departure.
To understand the overall picture of the available pathways, you should also read the article skilled migration to Germany. The M2W team will support you every step of the way, from qualification recognition to practicing your profession in Germany.
Information compiled from the Make it in Germany portal (German Government). Language requirements and the recognition process may change — please check official sources before submitting your application.
Read more: Overview of migrating to Germany · Accelerated skilled worker procedure in Germany (Section 81a)
