Approbation in Germany: How the Process Differs for EU vs Non-EU Doctors

Germany offers exciting career opportunities for doctors from around the world. However, obtaining a medical license (Approbation) differs depending on whether you earned your medical degree in the EU/EEA or a non-EU country. Understanding these differences early can save you months of delays and help you prepare efficiently.

In this guide, we break down the EU vs. non-EU Approbation process, explain the key steps, and provide practical tips to help you succeed.

 

1. The One Step Everyone Must Take: Fachsprachprüfung (FSP)

No matter where you earned your medical degree, all foreign doctors must pass the Fachsprachprüfung (FSP). This exam ensures you can communicate safely and professionally with patients and colleagues.

The FSP tests your ability to:

• Communicate with patients and medical staff in German

• Conduct anamnesis interviews and present clinical cases

• Write accurate and clear medical documentation

Tip: Most candidates need at least B2 level German before starting FSP prep and should aim for C1 medical German for optimal performance.

 

 

2. EU Doctors: Automatic Recognition

Doctors trained in EU/EEA countries benefit from automatic recognition of their medical degrees.

Key points for EU doctors:

• No medical knowledge exam is required

• After passing FSP and verifying documents, you can apply for Approbation

• The process is typically faster, often taking 3–6 months

Summary: For EU-trained doctors, Approbation generally means FSP + verified documents.

 

3. Non-EU Doctors: Additional Steps

For doctors trained outside the EU/EEA, German authorities carefully evaluate whether your medical training meets local standards.

Key steps for non-EU doctors:

1. Gutachter Evaluation: An expert reviews your curriculum, clinical rotations, and transcripts to determine equivalence.

2. Kenntnisprüfung (KP): If your training is not fully equivalent, you must pass this medical knowledge exam.

These steps make the process longer and more complex, often taking 6–18 months, but ensure your training meets Germany’s patient safety requirements.

 

4. Tips for Doctors with non-EU Degrees

• Start German early (B2 + C1 medical German)

• Organize and certify all transcripts, rotations, and diplomas

• Prepare for both FSP and potential KP

• Consider observerships (Hospitationen) to strengthen your application

• Get in touch with Match Doctors by Lingoda for effective preparation courses!
  
  

 

5. How Match Doctors by Lingoda Supports You

Whether you are EU-trained or non-EU-trained, Match Doctors by Lingoda helps you succeed in every step:

• FSP Preparation Courses – Role plays, case presentations, and medical documentation practice

• Kenntnisprüfung Support – Structured preparation for non-EU doctors needing the knowledge exam

• Language Coaching – German at A1–C1 level, tailored to your needs

• Study Plans and Mock Exams – Practice under real exam conditions with expert feedback

We guide international doctors from all backgrounds to gain confidence and pass their exams, so you can focus on starting your medical career in Germany.

 

6. FAQs

Q: How long does Approbation take for EU vs non-EU doctors?

• EU: 3–6 months

• Non-EU: 6–18 months, depending on Gutachter evaluation and KP requirements

Q: Do all non-EU doctors need the Kenntnisprüfung (KP)?

• Only if your training is not fully equivalent to German medical standards

Q: What German level is required for Approbation?

• Minimum: B2 level of German is required to take the Fachsprachprüfung (FSP).

• Certification: Successfully passing the FSP demonstrates C1-level medical German skills, showing you can communicate effectively in clinical settings.