How the MedicalTalentNetwork recruiting team can support you
Working immigration in the German healthcare-system
Pursuing a rewarding career in healthcare often leads skilled professionals to seek opportunities beyond their home countries. For foreign nurses considering immigration to Germany—a nation renowned for its advanced healthcare system and diverse opportunities—the journey can be both exciting and challenging.
In summary, migrants in Germany benefit from a high level of personal freedom and security, stable legal certainty, good earning potential, and an excellent education system for their children. These factors make Germany an attractive destination for migrants from around the world.
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How many foreign care workers are currently employed?
The proportion of foreign care workers continues to grow: as of March 2021, 208,000 foreign care workers were employed in Germany (out of approximately 1.5 million total employees as of March 2021). This number has nearly tripled since 2013. Their share now stands at 13.5% (12% in healthcare and 16% in elderly care). Source
Where do the majority of care workers come from?
For years, care workers have been regularly coming to Germany from EU countries. Since 2013, their numbers have increased every year (85,000 as of March 2021). Care workers from EU countries can work in Germany without special permission, but they must have their qualifications recognized and pass a professional language exam to be able to work here as skilled professionals.
However, the migration from non-EU countries has become much more significant: The clear majority of all foreign care workers now come from outside the EU ('third countries,' 122,300 as of March 2021). Their share now stands at 60 percent. Most foreign care workers working in Germany come from Poland, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Turkey, Croatia, and Romania.
In recent years, new additions have mainly included care workers from the Western Balkans, particularly from Serbia (9,500 as of March 2021), partly due to the 'Western Balkans Regulation' (see below). More than 15,000 care workers come from the 'Top 8 asylum origin countries.' Many of them are refugees who arrived in Germany in 2015. Source
These countries of origin reflect the efforts to recruit nurses from various regions to address the shortage of healthcare professionals in Germany.
The current situation in Germany’s healthcare sector
Germany's healthcare system is currently under considerable pressure due to a combination of an ageing population, a high demand for healthcare services, and a shortage of qualified nursing staff. These factors have led to an increased reliance on foreign nurses to fill critical roles across the country. The government and healthcare providers are actively seeking ways to streamline the integration process for foreign healthcare professionals, offering support in areas such as language training, professional recognition, and cultural adaptation. Despite these challenges, Germany remains a highly attractive destination for nurses due to its advanced medical facilities, comprehensive healthcare coverage, and the opportunity for professional growth within a well-structured system.
Western Balkans Regulation
In recent years, a particularly large number of care workers have come from the Balkan states. They fall under the 'Western Balkans Regulation,' which was originally set to expire in 2020 but has been extended until the end of 2023. Workers from Balkan states have a much easier time compared to people from other non-EU countries. For them, a specific job offer is sufficient to come to Germany. Since the introduction of this regulation, their numbers in the care sector have tripled (36,000 as of March 2021). In contrast, the new Skilled Immigration Act has brought in hardly any new skilled workers during the COVID-19 pandemic. Source
What MedicalTalentNetwork can do for you as a nurse from abroad
At MedicalTalentNetwork, Sonja Luise Maier, a Senior Recruiter, offers valuable insights into the process of immigrating to Germany and securing a position as a nurse. Her team provides guidance on everything from navigating legal and bureaucratic hurdles to cultural integration and professional development, helping those eager to contribute their expertise to the German healthcare system. Sonja brings several years of experience in recruiting and key account management for medical and nursing staff. She supports international nurses and doctors in making a successful start to their careers in Germany and finds great satisfaction in matching candidates with their ideal roles, being happy when everything falls into place.
Typically, foreign nurses have already completed their nursing education in their home country. Many are proficient in German, obtaining certificates to demonstrate their language skills, which must be recognised by German authorities. Simultaneously, they can begin searching for job opportunities and applying to suitable positions, with a variety of roles available across Germany, including those listed on our job board. Once a successful application has been made, the next step is to apply for a work visa.
For foreign nurses, working in Germany is certainly possible. However, as with any profession, being fluent in the local language significantly eases the transition. In healthcare, where close interaction with patients and colleagues is essential, effective communication is key. At least a B2 level in German is typically required to secure a job. While candidates with a B1 level can receive support to improve their language skills, those below this threshold may find it difficult to adapt and are advised to take language courses first. This not only benefits their professional life but also helps with social integration. If you're unsure whether your German language skills are sufficient, you might consider contacting one of the language centres of the Goethe-Institut. They have a presence in many countries, and their language certificates are highly respected by German employers..
Requirements and earnings
The requirements for foreign nurses to work in Germany vary based on their country of origin. Nurses from the EU, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, or Switzerland do not need a visa or residence permit to work in Germany. However, those from non-EU countries will need to obtain a residence permit and apply for a work visa before immigrating.
In terms of salary, the earnings of nurses in Germany in 2024 range between €2,300 and €4,600 gross per month, depending on experience. It is important for foreign nurses to understand that the gross salary is not the amount they will take home. After negotiating the gross salary with their employer, taxes and social contributions are deducted before the net salary is paid into their account. For those unfamiliar with the German system, this can be surprising, so it is advisable to use online gross-net calculators to estimate the take-home pay in advance.
We help you to overcome bureaucratic hurdles
While there is a high demand for nurses in Germany, working with MedicalTalentNetwork offers distinct advantages. Although finding a vacancy is not difficult, the structure of German hospitals may differ significantly from those in other countries. This is where Sonja’s expertise and experience can be invaluable. The complexity of German bureaucracy, even for those fluent in the language, can be daunting. Sonja leverages her network and experience to simplify these processes, ensuring that candidates have the support they need to navigate administrative challenges. With longstanding relationships with numerous employers, clinics, hospitals, and rehabilitation facilities, MedicalTalentNetwork ensures that candidates are placed in environments where they are well-supported.
The process of obtaining the necessary paperwork and recognition can take several months. MedicalTalentNetwork discusses service costs with candidates during an initial consultation. For those who already possess professional recognition, a work permit, and a valid residence status, the placement service remains free of charge. Additionally, successful candidates are eligible for a loyalty bonus of €3,000: €1,500 upon starting their role and €1,500 after successfully completing the six-month probationary period.
Germany offers several advantages to migrants, contributing to a high quality of life
Personal Freedom and Security: Germany is known for its high level of internal security and the protection of personal freedoms. The country has strong democratic institutions and a robust legal system that safeguards the rights and freedoms of all citizens, including migrants. Crimes are prosecuted diligently, and the police generally enjoy a high level of public trust.
Legal Certainty: Germany provides solid rule of law, guaranteeing migrants a clear and reliable legal framework. This means that laws are applied transparently and predictably, ensuring that migrants residing legally in the country have access to legal protection and fair treatment.
Income: Germany has a strong economy with relatively high wages compared to many other countries. Migrants benefit from fair working conditions, minimum wage laws, and a social security system that offers support in case of unemployment or illness.
Education for Children: The German education system is well-developed and offers all children, including those of migrants, access to high-quality education. There is a wide network of schools and universities, which are either free or very low-cost. Germany also provides various support programs and resources to help migrant children succeed in education.
Germany offers numerous benefits specially to women
Maternity Protection: Pregnant women in Germany are entitled to comprehensive maternity protection, which safeguards them before and after childbirth. This typically includes six weeks of leave before and eight weeks after the birth, during which women are not required to work but still receive their full salary. For premature or multiple births, the post-birth protection period extends to 12 weeks.
Parental Allowance: After childbirth, mothers (and fathers) are entitled to parental allowance, which can be paid for up to 14 months if both parents take time off to care for their child. This allowance usually amounts to between 65% and 67% of the net income earned before the birth, ensuring financial security during parental leave.
Childcare: Germany has a well-developed system of daycares and childcare facilities, making it easier for mothers to return to work after childbirth. From the age of one, children in Germany have a legal right to a place in childcare.
Healthcare: Pregnant women receive excellent medical care in Germany, covered by health insurance. This includes regular prenatal check-ups, ultrasounds, and other necessary medical services to ensure the well-being of both mother and child.
Interested? Apply Now!
For nurses abroad interested in support from MedicalTalentNetwork, the easiest way to get in touch is through the 'Apply now' form on the website. This allows the recruitment team to assess the candidate’s situation and provide tailored support, ensuring a smooth transition into the German healthcare system.
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