If your foreign professional qualification cannot yet be recognized in Germany and only requires you to pass an examination for recognition, you can obtain a residence permit solely for the purpose of taking the examination.
The term "examination" covers examinations that are necessary to determine the equivalence of the foreign professional qualification with a domestic professional qualification and, in a profession regulated in Germany, to grant authorization to practice the profession or to use a professional title. This includes language and technical language examinations. Taking several examinations is also possible.
If you are required to attend an exam preparation course before taking the exam, you can obtain a residence permit for the purpose of completing a qualification measure for the recognition of foreign professional qualifications.
You must prove your language skills to the immigration authorities if proof of language skills is not part of your examination.
The residence permit for taking an examination for the recognition of foreign professional qualifications does not
entitle you
to engage in gainful employment.
The residence permit for taking an examination for the recognition of foreign professional qualifications is a temporary residence permit. It is issued for the duration of the examination procedure. This covers the period from taking the examination to the announcement of the examination results or until the competent authority issues a decision concluding the procedure.
You must apply for a residence permit at the immigration office responsible for your place of residence. The procedure is as follows:
- Depending on the immigration office and your specific situation, it may be possible to apply online. Find out whether your immigration office offers electronic applications for residence permits.
- If the application can only be made in person, make an appointment with the immigration office. During the appointment, your application will be accepted and your supporting documents will be checked (bring these with you to the appointment). Your fingerprints will be taken for the production of an electronic residence permit (eAT card).
- If you apply electronically, the immigration office will contact you after receiving your online application to arrange an appointment at the immigration office if necessary. During the appointment, your supporting documents will be checked (please bring them with you to the appointment) and your fingerprints will be taken for the production of the electronic residence permit (eAT card).
- If your application is approved, the Immigration Office will arrange for the eAT card to be produced.
- After about six to eight weeks, you can pick up the eAT card at the immigration office.
- The eAT card must always be picked up in person.
- There are fees for issuing the residence permit. The timing and form of payment vary depending on the authority.
You can also obtain free advice on entry, residence, and employment from the "Hotline Working and Living in Germany" on the German government's portal for skilled workers from abroad.
Phone: 030 1815-1111
Service hours: Monday to Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
about six to eight weeks.
The immigration office responsible for the applicant's place of residence
