Certification
Formal
Recognition of foreign professional qualifications in North Rhine-Westphalia
Recognition of foreign professional qualifications in NRW: Your key to success!
Do you want to work in North Rhine-Westphalia with your foreign professional qualification? The recognition process can be complex. We show you how to successfully apply for the recognition of your qualification and which offices can assist you. Learn more about our advisory services on our Contact page.
The topic briefly and concisely
Recognition of foreign professional qualifications is crucial in NRW for access to the job market and can increase income by up to €15,000 per year.
The responsibility for recognition is decentralised. Find out early which authority or chamber is responsible for your profession to avoid delays.
Take advantage of the numerous advisory services in NRW to successfully navigate the complex recognition process and secure your professional future.
Learn all about the recognition of foreign professional qualifications in NRW: From the responsible authorities to the necessary steps. Secure your professional future!
The recognition of foreign professional qualifications in NRW is a crucial step for many professionals looking to establish themselves in North Rhine-Westphalia. At Mentoc, we understand that this process can be complex and challenging. That's why we offer comprehensive support to ensure your qualifications are recognised in Germany. With our expertise in certified translations and editing, we help you prepare all necessary documents accurately and legally. This paves the way for a successful professional future in NRW.
Importance of Recognition for the Labour Market in NRW
The recognition of foreign professional qualifications is a key instrument for meeting the skilled labour needs in North Rhine-Westphalia. In light of demographic changes and the increasing shortage of qualified workers, it is essential to optimise the potential of immigrants. Recognition allows people with a migration background to bring their skills and knowledge acquired abroad into the German labour market. This not only promotes individual career development but also strengthens the country's economy. The recognition of professional qualifications is therefore a central component for integration into the labour market and for securing skilled labour needs.
Legal Foundations and Conditions
The legal foundations for the recognition of foreign professional qualifications are anchored in the Professional Qualifications Assessment Act (BQFG). This law regulates the procedure for determining the equivalence of foreign professional qualifications with German reference professions. The BQFG prioritises the German reference profession, meaning that the foreign qualification is compared with a corresponding German qualification. It is important to understand that recognition does not occur automatically but requires a formal process in which the relevant authorities examine and evaluate the qualifications. Knowledge of the legal framework is crucial for a successful recognition process. Additionally, it is important to note that specific additional regulations may apply to certain professions, especially in healthcare and crafts.
Overview of the Decentralised Structure of Recognition Authorities
In North Rhine-Westphalia, there is no central authority responsible for all recognition procedures. Instead, responsibility is distributed across various authorities and chambers. This decentralised structure can make the recognition process more complex, as applicants must first identify the authority responsible for their profession. The main actors include the district governments, the Chambers of Industry and Commerce (IHK), the Chambers of Crafts, and the Ministry of Innovation, Science, Research and Technology. Identifying the responsible authority is a crucial first step in the recognition process. We support you in finding the right point of contact and gathering all necessary information.
Which authority is responsible? How to find the right point of contact
The responsibility for recognising foreign professional qualifications varies depending on the type of qualification. It is crucial to identify the correct authority to make the recognition process efficient. Here, we provide an overview of the various responsible bodies in NRW.
School Qualifications
The district governments are responsible for the recognition of school qualifications. The Cologne District Government is responsible for recognising qualifications up to the secondary school leaving certificate (Hauptschulabschluss, Fachoberschulreife). Conversely, the Düsseldorf District Government is responsible for the recognition of secondary school leaving certificates for higher education entrance. It is important to note that the Düsseldorf District Government is also responsible for recognising foreign school qualifications as German university entrance qualifications if they are required for employment, training, or study in NRW. The ANABIN database serves as the key tool for determining recognition criteria.
Vocational Training
The recognition of vocational training is generally undertaken by the Chambers of Industry and Commerce (IHK) and the Chambers of Crafts. In most cases, IHK FOSA (Foreign Skills Approval) is responsible for the IHK procedures. An exception is the IHK Wuppertal, which conducts its own recognition procedures. It is advisable to contact the responsible chamber early to obtain information about the required documents and the procedure. The chambers check whether the foreign training is equivalent to German training.
Academic Degrees
For academic degrees, the Ministry of Innovation, Science, Research and Technology is the first point of contact for information. The Central Office for Foreign Education (ZAB) offers a certificate evaluation providing a comparative assessment of the foreign university degree regarding the German education system. This certificate evaluation is particularly relevant for non-regulated professions where no formal recognition is required. The ZAB certificate evaluation serves as proof for employers and can facilitate the job search.
Vocational School and Technical School Qualifications
The responsibility for recognising vocational school and technical school qualifications is divided among the five district governments in NRW, depending on the country of origin of the qualification. The Arnsberg District Government is responsible for qualifications from Poland, Romania, Slovakia, and the Czech Republic. The Detmold District Government is responsible for qualifications from Albania, Bulgaria, Hungary, and the states of the former Soviet Union. The Düsseldorf District Government is responsible for qualifications from Greece, Austria, Turkey, Switzerland, and the states of the former Yugoslavia. The Cologne District Government is responsible for qualifications from Belgium, France, Great Britain, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Portugal, and Spain. The Münster District Government is responsible for qualifications from Denmark, Iceland, Finland, Norway, Sweden, and all non-European countries (except former Yugoslavia, CIS). This division is intended to ensure efficient processing of applications.
Healthcare Professions (Non-Medical)
The Düsseldorf District Government is responsible for recognising non-medical healthcare professions. This includes qualifications in nursing or physiotherapy. It is important to note that different regulations apply to medical professions like doctors or pharmacists.
Teaching Professions
The recognition of teaching professions requires recognition as First and Second State Examinations. The details of the procedures and responsibilities are regulated separately. It is advisable to contact the responsible ministry or district government early for information about the specific requirements and procedure.
Recognition process in NRW: How to successfully submit your application
The recognition process in North Rhine-Westphalia necessitates careful preparation and adherence to certain steps. Here, we explain the key aspects of the procedure, from identifying the German reference profession to submitting documents.
Identifying the German Reference Profession
A crucial step in the recognition process is identifying the German reference profession. According to the Professional Qualifications Assessment Act (BQFG), the German reference profession is prioritised in recognition. This means that your foreign qualification is compared to a corresponding German qualification. The knowledge of the reference profession is essential to assess the equivalence of your qualification.
Application Process and Duration
Once you have identified the responsible authority and the German reference profession, you can apply for recognition. The responsible authority is obligated to confirm receipt of your application within one month. The decision regarding the equivalence of your qualification is usually made within three months. However, in certain cases, the procedure may take longer, for instance, if additional assessments need to be obtained. It is advisable to submit all required documents completely and correctly to avoid delays.
Costs of the Procedure
The costs for the recognition procedure vary depending on the profession and the effort involved. The fees are individually determined by the responsible authority. It is advisable to inform yourself about the expected costs in advance. In some cases, funding programmes can be accessed to help reduce the costs.
Submission of Documents
EU citizens have the option to submit documents electronically. Different regulations may apply to non-EU citizens. All documents not in the German language must be officially translated. At Mentoc, we offer you professional translations that meet legal requirements. The certified translation is a vital part of the recognition process.
ANABIN Database
The ANABIN database is an important tool for establishing recognition criteria. It contains information about foreign educational institutions and qualifications and serves as a basis for the competent authorities to assess equivalence. According to § 7 Abs. 3 GlVO, the ANABIN database is an essential part of the recognition process. Familiarity with the ANABIN database can help you better assess your chances of successful recognition.
Specific Requirements: How to Master the Recognition of Regulated Professions
In Nordrhein-Westfalen, there are a multitude of occupations considered regulated. This means that formal approval is required to practice these professions. Here, you can learn which occupational groups are affected and what specific requirements apply.
Regulated Professions
Regulated professions are those for which access and practice are governed by laws or regulations. This mainly concerns professions related to public safety and health, such as doctors, pharmacists, teachers, engineers, and architects. Practicing a regulated profession typically requires state recognition or approval. Without this recognition, you are not permitted to practice the profession or use the protected professional title.
Engineers
For engineers, the District Government is responsible for recognising the title “Ingenieur” if the foreign qualification is equivalent to a German engineering degree. For the title “Consulting Engineer,” the Chamber of Engineers-Bau NRW is responsible. This requires additional criteria such as three years of professional experience and professional liability insurance. The recognition as an Engineer is an important step for a successful career in this field.
Architects
Architects must be registered on the Architects’ Register and be a member of the Chamber of Architects to use the professional titles “Architect” or “Architectr”. Registration in the Architects' Register requires a recognised qualification. The membership in the Chamber of Architects is mandatory for professional practice.
Medical Professions (Doctors, Dentists, Pharmacists)
For medical professions, such as doctors, dentists, and pharmacists, a license to practice (state approval) is required. The District Government Münster processes applications from individuals with foreign qualifications. The license to practice is a prerequisite for unrestricted professional practice.
Alternative Practitioners
To practice as an alternative practitioner, a permit for alternative practitioners is required. In some cases, the permit may be limited to psychotherapy. The alternative practitioner permit is the legal basis for practicing this profession.
Teachers
For teachers, the District Government Arnsberg (for EU/EEA/Switzerland) or the District Government Detmold (for third countries) is responsible for evaluating foreign teaching qualifications. Recognition of both the First and Second State Examinations is necessary to be allowed to teach in schools. The recognition of teaching qualification is a complex process requiring careful preparation.
Craft Professions
For craft professions, the Chambers of Crafts are responsible. The local jurisdiction depends on where you wish to conduct your business. The Chambers of Crafts assess whether your foreign qualification is equivalent to a German journeyman's certificate or master's title.
Veterinarians
For veterinarians, the State Office for Nature, the Environment and Consumer Protection (LANUV) is the competent authority for the recognition of foreign qualifications. The recognition of veterinary qualification is required for practicing the profession in NRW.
Social Workers/Social Educators
For social workers and social educators, the responsible is the District Government of the district in which you reside. The recognition of the social pedagogical qualification is required to be active in this field.
Recognition procedure in NRW: Significant increase in applications in 2023
The recognition of foreign professional qualifications in North Rhine-Westphalia has gained increasing importance in recent years. This is also reflected in the statistical development of recognition procedures.
Increase in Applications in 2023
In 2023, North Rhine-Westphalia recorded a significant increase in recognition procedures for foreign professional qualifications. A total of 17,901 procedures were conducted, representing an increase of 38.3% compared to the previous year. This rise highlights the growing importance of recognition for the labour market in NRW. The increase in applications is an indicator of the rising demand for skilled workers and the growing immigration of qualified professionals.
Dominance of Medical Health Professions
A large portion of the applications was for medical health professions. Over 77% of applications concerned professions such as nurses, doctors, and other medical professionals. This underscores the high demand for skilled workers in the healthcare sector. The high proportion of medical professions reflects the shortage of skilled workers in this area.
Strongest Increase in Nursing Professions
The increase was particularly strong in nursing professions. The profession of “nurse” became the top reference profession with a significant rise in applications. This can be attributed to the introduction of the new Nursing Professions Act, which redefines the training and recognition of nursing professionals. The significant increase in nursing professions is a positive signal for the population's care.
Countries of Origin of Applicants
Most applicants came from Turkey, Tunisia, and Syria. This reflects the migration movements of recent years. The countries of origin of applicants provide insights into the integration efforts of immigrants.
Proportion of Regulated Professions
A high proportion of applications concerned regulated professions (88.9%). This shows that recognition is essential for practising many professions in NRW. The high number of applications for regulated professions underlines the importance of recognition for the labour market.
Utilise advice centres: How to find the right support
The recognition process can be complex and challenging. Fortunately, in North Rhine-Westphalia, there are numerous advisory services and support options available to assist you.
Central Service Point for Professional Recognition (ZSBA) of the Federal Employment Agency
The Central Service Point for Professional Recognition (ZSBA) of the Federal Employment Agency offers comprehensive advice, especially for individuals still residing abroad. The ZSBA provides information on recognition possibilities and supports with the application process. The ZSBA's advice is an important first step for many applicants.
Single Point of Contact NRW
The Single Point of Contact NRW is a central contact point for businesses and professionals wanting to operate in NRW. It offers information and assistance with electronic applications and liaises with the relevant authorities. The Single Point of Contact NRW facilitates access to various administrative procedures.
Additional Advisory Services
In addition to the ZSBA and the Single Point of Contact NRW, there are other advisory centres that can assist with the recognition of your foreign qualifications. These include, for example, the Integration Agencies, the Job Centres, and the Chambers. It is advisable to find out early about the various advisory services available and to seek the support that suits your situation.
Overcoming Challenges: Achieving Successful Recognition
The recognition of foreign professional qualifications in North Rhine-Westphalia is an important step for many professionals. However, there are also some challenges that need to be addressed.
Complexity of the recognition process
One of the biggest challenges is the complexity of the recognition process. The decentralised structure with different responsibilities and requirements can be confusing. It is important to seek information early and find the right advisory centre. Understanding the responsibilities is crucial for a successful recognition process.
Importance of language skills
German language skills are an essential requirement for recognition and successful integration into the job market. In many professions, good German skills are indispensable to perform tasks and communicate with colleagues and customers. It is advisable to attend a German course early on and continuously improve language skills.
Future prospects
The recognition of foreign professional qualifications will continue to play an important role in securing skilled labour in the future. The NRW state government is continuously working on the further development of the recognition processes to make them more efficient and transparent. The further development of the recognition processes is an important contribution to securing skilled labour in NRW.
We at Mentoc are happy to support you in recognising your foreign professional qualifications in NRW. With our professional translation and proofreading services, we ensure that your documents meet the highest quality standards. Thus, nothing stands in the way of your successful professional future in NRW. Contact us today for a non-binding consultation!
More useful links
The MAGS NRW provides information on the recognition of professional qualifications in North Rhine-Westphalia.
The Ministry of Economic Affairs NRW offers information on the professional recognition process.
The Düsseldorf District Government is responsible for the recognition of foreign school-leaving certificates as university entrance qualifications.
The Münster District Government provides information on the recognition of foreign educational qualifications.
The NRW Ministry of Education offers information on foreign qualifications.
IT.NRW provides statistical data on the rise in recognition procedures for foreign professional qualifications.
The Career.NRW offers information and opportunities for the recognition of foreign qualifications.
The NRW State Government provides information on the recognition of various professions.
FAQ
What are the advantages of having my foreign professional qualification recognized in NRW?
The recognition of your foreign professional qualification in NRW allows you unrestricted access to the German job market, which can lead to better job offers and a higher salary. It is also often a prerequisite for practicing regulated professions.
How do I find out which authority is responsible for recognizing my qualification?
The responsibility depends on the type of your qualification. For school qualifications, the Cologne and Düsseldorf district governments are responsible. For vocational training, the IHK and Chambers of Crafts are responsible. For academic degrees, the Ministry for Innovation, Science, Research and Technology is the primary contact.
What documents do I need for the recognition application?
Generally, you will need a tabular resume, copies of your identity card/passport, residence permit (if applicable), and certified translations of your documents if they are not in German or English.
How much does the recognition process cost?
The costs for the recognition process vary depending on the profession and effort involved. It is advisable to inquire with the responsible authority about the expected costs beforehand. There are also funding programs that can be utilized.
How long does the recognition process take?
The responsible authority must confirm the receipt of your application within one month. The decision about the equivalence of your qualification is usually made within three months. In certain cases, however, the process duration may be extended.
What is the German reference profession and why is it important?
The German reference profession is the German qualification with which your foreign qualification is compared. According to the Professional Qualifications Assessment Act (BQFG), the German reference profession takes precedence in the recognition process.
What do I do if my qualification is not fully recognized?
If your qualification is not fully recognized, you may have the option to complete an adaptation course or take a aptitude test to demonstrate the missing knowledge.
Where can I find further advisory services for recognizing foreign professional qualifications in NRW?
There are various advisory services that can assist you, including the Central Service Point for Professional Recognition (ZSBA) of the Federal Employment Agency and the Single Point of Contact NRW.
