1. The Skilled Immigration Act (Updated 2024-2025)

Germany’s Skilled Immigration Act has undergone major updates to attract more foreign professionals, especially in healthcare. The new rules make it easier to get your qualifications recognized, secure a visa, and find employment.

What’s New in 2024-2025?
    •    Faster qualification recognition for healthcare workers
    •    Lower work experience requirements, making it easier to qualify
    •    Simplified job-seeker visa options for medical professionals
    •    More opportunities for non-EU nurses and doctors to work in Germany

Who’s Eligible?
    •    Healthcare professionals with recognized qualifications (e.g., nursing, medicine, physiotherapy)
    •    Basic German language proficiency (B1–B2 required for healthcare jobs)
    •    A job offer or employment contract from a German hospital or clinic

Why Choose This Pathway?
    •    Faster visa processing and smoother immigration procedures
    •    Long-term career prospects, including permanent residency options
    •    Family reunification, allowing you to bring your spouse and children
    •    Full access to Germany’s world-class healthcare and social security system

How to Apply
    1.    Get your qualifications recognized through the German authorities.
    2.    Find a job in Germany’s healthcare sector.
    3.    Apply for the appropriate visa based on your employment status.
    4.    Move to Germany and start working, with ongoing support for full qualification recognition.

2. Other Immigration Pathways for Healthcare Workers

Besides the Skilled Immigration Act, there are other visa options for foreign healthcare professionals.

a) EU Blue Card: For Highly Skilled Healthcare Workers
    •    Ideal for doctors, specialists, and senior medical professionals
    •    Requires a minimum salary of €45,300 per year (as of 2024)
    •    Fast-track to permanent residency (33 months or just 21 months with B1 German)

b) Job-Seeker Visa: Explore Germany While Finding a Job
    •    Stay in Germany for up to 6 months while searching for a job
    •    Requires recognized qualifications and proof of financial stability
    •    Can be converted into a work visa once a job offer is secured

c) Apprenticeship (Ausbildung) for Nursing Assistants
    •    Ideal for those without a formal nursing degree but willing to train
    •    Offers paid vocational training, leading to full-time employment
    •    Requires B1 German proficiency and a high school diploma

Germany needs healthcare workers, and the new 2024-2025 immigration rules make it easier than ever to move. Whether you’re a nurse, doctor, therapist, or medical technician, there’s a visa pathway designed for you.

Ready to start your healthcare career in Germany? Begin by getting your qualifications recognized and applying for the right visa today!