Visa for Germany

Business Coaching

Depending on your country of origin and professional field, recognition of your professional qualifications may be required for a visa. You can find detailed information on this here.

Who needs a visa

Whether and which visa you need to apply for depends on which country you come from and what professional qualifications you have.

Citizens of EU/EFTA states

If you are an EU citizen entitled to freedom of movement, you have unrestricted access to the German labor market. You do not need a visa or residence permit to enter or work in Germany. The same applies if you come from Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway or Switzerland (EFTA states).

Nationals from third countries (non-EU/non-EFTA countries)

Citizens of Australia, Israel, Japan, Canada, the Republic of Korea, New Zealand, the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland and the USA can also enter Germany without a visa and apply for a residence permit for employment in Germany before taking up work. Only if you are a citizen or national of these countries can you apply directly to the foreigners authority in your city - even if you are already in Germany. However, if you wish to take up employment shortly after entering Germany, it is advisable to apply for a corresponding visa before entering the country.

All other third-country nationals must apply for a visa at the relevant German embassy or consulate before entering the country.

Step by step

1st orientation meeting

In a video call we introduce ourselves and our program get to know each other and together we create a Needs analysis. Based on your qualifications, experience, language skills and personal wishes, we will determine your options and plan the next steps. If you already have German language skills, we will evaluate them in a placement interview.

2. preparation of the documents

A number of documents and certificates are required for entry into Germany, most of which must be translated into German and notarized. The translations and certifications are not part of our program. For cost reasons, we recommend that you do this in your home country. Of course, we are also available to advise you here. A complete list of all documents can be found below.

3. recognition of the foreign professional qualification

In order to be able to work as a qualified nurse in Germany, you must first apply for recognition of your qualification. To do this, you will need the translated and notarized certificates from your training, studies and professional career. Each application is reviewed individually and usually ends with a notice of deficit, which informs you how many theoretical and practical hours you need to make up and in which specialist areas. Full recognition is only granted in Germany after successful completion of a knowledge test or an adaptation period.

4. language training

It may take several months for the competent authority to review your application. We use this time for targeted language and technical language training as well as exam preparation. At least a B1 language certificate (Goethe, telc certificate) is required to obtain the visa. In order to receive full recognition as a registered nurse at a later date, you will need a B2 certificate.

5. interview with employer

At the same time, we will look for a suitable employer for you and organize an online interview with the person responsible. We will be happy to prepare you for this interview and give you tips and advice on how to present yourself in the best possible light. If you are accepted, we can apply the accelerated skilled worker procedure and initiate the visa process for you.

6 Visa and entry

With the promise of an employment contract, we can initiate an accelerated skilled worker procedure. We take care of all communication with the authorities and the employer. All you have to do is provide us with a power of attorney and, if necessary, send us additional documents. All we need now is a little patience.

7. onboarding program

Our support continues even after your arrival in Germany. This includes, for example, picking you up from the airport and transferring you to your place of work. We will support you with the necessary administrative formalities, prepare you for any language tests you may need to take and help you settle into your new surroundings.

8. adaptation period or knowledge test

In order to have your professional qualification recognized, you must decide whether you would rather complete an adaptation period in practice or take a knowledge test with a prior theoretical preparation course. The areas, departments and duration of the course depend on your shortfall notification.

Our partners

Frequently asked questions

J&N PALABRAS supports you in your search for qualified personnel from abroad in order to counteract the shortage of skilled workers in Germany - especially in the healthcare sector. We support hospitals and care facilities in their search for suitable nursing staff. We also take care of the entire process, from selection to visa, language skills, professional recognition and integration.

Our nurses undergo a rigorous selection process that includes interviews and checks on qualifications and German language skills. We make sure that all candidates have the necessary qualifications and experience and take their personal situation and wishes into account.

Yes, all the nurses we place have the necessary certificates and qualifications to work in Germany. They have completed appropriate training in their home country and in many cases have already gained professional experience. Before issuing the visa, the regional council of the respective federal state checks all professional certificates and issues an individual assessment. Missing or unproven skills must be made up as part of the recognition procedure for the professional qualification in the form of an adaptation period or a knowledge test.

In most cases, not yet. Nursing staff can receive the permit as part of the recognition procedure or once it has been completed.

We offer comprehensive support in obtaining visas, including advice on the necessary documents, assistance with applications and contact with the German authorities. Our aim is to make the process as smooth as possible for care workers and employers.

The main requirements include:

  • A valid employment contract in Germany
  • Recognized professional qualifications in the care sector
  • Proof of training, qualifications and experience for the application for recognition
  • Proof of sufficient German language skills (usually at least B1)
  • A certificate of good health and good conduct

At JN Palabras, we offer you comprehensive support after your arrival in Germany: from helping you with local formalities, picking you up from the airport, registering with the residents' registration office, finding accommodation (if necessary) to opening a bank account and assisting you with your cultural acclimatization. We are also on hand to answer any questions you may have and help you integrate into the German working world and society. Your success is our priority.

Yes, we are available to both nursing staff and employers throughout the entire employment relationship. In the event of questions or problems, we offer mediation and support to ensure smooth cooperation.

The costs are to be borne by the employer and depend on various factors, including the qualification and the specific requirements of the employer. We will prepare an individual offer based on your needs.