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For information only. This guide provides general information only and does not constitute immigration, legal, or financial advice. Visa rules, salary thresholds, and qualification requirements change frequently. Always verify critical decisions with official government sources and a qualified professional. Full disclaimer ↗

Doctor (General Practitioner) Relocation Guide: Moving to Germany

High demand · €60,000-€100,000 · Visa: EU Blue Card

Updated April 2026 ~ Medium confidence

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Preparation steps tailored for Doctor (General Practitioner)s relocating from:

If you are a qualified doctor weighing up Germany — whether you're already in touch with a German hospital or are still researching whether your medical degree can be recognised — this guide explains the Approbation process, the realistic timeline, and the practical language and exam requirements that hospital websites rarely make clear.

Quick stats

💰 Salary

€60,000-€100,000

📋 Visa

EU Blue Card

🎓 Recognition

Medical degree requires equivalence assessment and Approbation

📈 Demand

High

Quick answers

Yes, with a EU Blue Card. Doctor (General Practitioner)s currently see High demand in Germany.
€60,000-€100,000 gross per year.
Typically 3–8 months from job offer to arrival: 4–8 weeks for visa, plus 1–3 months for qualification recognition if required.

🔍 What nobody tells you

1

The Approbation (full medical licence) is granted by each federal state separately — so a Bavarian Approbation does not automatically transfer to North Rhine-Westphalia if you switch hospitals. Confirm the state authority's specific document checklist before you ship original certificates.

2

Most state medical chambers require the Fachsprachenprüfung (medical-specific German language exam at C1 level) on top of a general C1 certificate, and exam slots are often booked out 3–6 months ahead. Reserve a slot the moment you decide to move.

3

The Berufserlaubnis (temporary practice permit) lets you start work for up to 2 years while your full Approbation is processed, but few hospital recruiters proactively explain it. Ask explicitly for it during contract negotiations if Approbation paperwork is still pending.

What Do Doctor (General Practitioner)s Earn in Germany?

€60,000-€100,000

Median salary: €78,000

Which Visa Do Doctor (General Practitioner)s Use to Move to Germany?

EU Blue Card

The EU Blue Card is the primary route for Doctor (General Practitioner)s relocating to Germany.

Is Your Doctor (General Practitioner) Qualification Recognised in Germany?

Medical degree requires equivalence assessment and Approbation

Recognition authority: Landesärztekammer

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Recognition can take 3–12 months — start the process before you arrive

Who Hires Doctor (General Practitioner)s in Germany?

  • ✓ Charité Berlin
  • ✓ Universitätsklinikum München
  • ✓ Helios Kliniken
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FAQ

Usually 4–8 weeks for visa processing after document submission, plus pre-visa preparation and appointment lead times.
€60,000-€100,000. Typical midpoint is €78,000.
Medical degree requires equivalence assessment and Approbation
C1 German for clinical practice
Charité Berlin, Universitätsklinikum München, Helios Kliniken
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