PG for Doctors in Germany [Process, Licensing]

To study in Germany, doctors must pass several exams, Fachsprachprüfung and Kenntnisprüfung exams, demonstrating their understanding of the German language and healthcare system. In addition, doctors must also obtain a visa to study and work in the country.

Doctors can complete their PG studies in Germany and start their medical careers in this renowned country with proper planning and preparation. This article contains essential information for anyone planning to work as an Assistant Doctor in Germany.

Medical Students - First Steps

The first step for medical students planning to study in Germany is to meet the requirements.

• The first requirement in the application process is for a medical student to have obtained a valid MBBS degree and passed their licensing examinations in their home country.
• It would be best if you also reached a B2 German language proficiency level to move on.

The physicians should apply to the state medical council of their choice where they wish to study and work in Germany before applying for a visa.

Following the application, each state will issue a set of documents that students must submit, some of which must be translated, and the German Consulate must attest to some. These documents are state-specific and are different for every state. The state-specific medical council website called Ärztekammer has complete information about what paperwork is required.

You'll need to wait for a few papers known as Eingangsbestätigung or Defizitbescheid, also known as Zwischenbescheid, from your state medical council. This document will take anywhere between three and twelve months to arrive. It is suggested that you keep in touch with the state medical council's staff in Germany to expedite things.

This is one of the essential documents you'll need to submit with your application for a recognition (Anerkennung) visa in your native country. Other visa requirements, such as a valid passport, Health Insurance, and others, remain the same as any other German visa. It is suggested that you check the German consulate's website for any further general requirements. When applying for a visa, proof of enrollment for the Fachsprachprüfung (FSP) preparation course is also required.

To summarize, there are three primary documents when applying for a visa:

1. Eingangsbestätigung/Defizitbescheid (Zwischenbescheid)
2. Fachsprachprüfung enrollment 
3. Blocked Account

You must wait for the visa to be approved by the German embassy once you submit your application. The visa application time frame will differ depending on the consulate in your native country.

Medical Students - Next Steps

You must attend the FSP prep course in which you are enrolled in a particular German state once you have arrived in Germany.

What is Fachsprachprüfung (FSP)?

The Fachsprachprüfung (FSP) is a technical language exam that doctors must take and pass to show their understanding of the German healthcare system and medical terminology. Each state offers the exam in Germany, and the format may differ slightly depending on the Bundesland.

You must write, speak, and understand German at a C1 level to pass the Fachsprachprüfung. The FSP has two main sections: written and oral sections. These two sections are further divided into other smaller sub-sections.

The German language exam consists of three parts in some states, while it has five parts in other states. The duration of the course to go through this test can range from three to five months.

After completing the FSP course and preparing, you may schedule an exam with your state medical council. Once you clear your FSP exam, you will be issued a temporary license valid for two years. You may work as an assistant doctor in the state where you earned your license during this time.

During these two years, you must also pass your Kenntnisprüfung (KP) to obtain a permanent license to work as an assistant doctor in Germany.

What is Kenntnisprüfung (KP)?

Kenntnisprüfung is the final assessment examination for doctors who have completed their medical studies and wish to be licensed in Germany. The Kenntnisprüfung consists of two parts: a written and an oral examination. You will be tested on your knowledge of inneren Medizin (internal medicine) and medical practice.

Each German state offers the Kenntnisprüfung, and the format may differ slightly depending on the Bundesland. You must register for the Kenntnisprüfung at least six months before the written examination. You will be issued a certificate of eligibility (Gleichwertigkeitsbescheinigung) after passing the Kenntnisprüfung, which allows you to work as a doctor in the field of your choice in Germany.

After four to five years, you must pass your Facharztprüfung to complete your postgraduate degree.

So, if you are a doctor looking to practice in Germany, be sure to familiarize yourself with the necessary documents and exams that you will need to take. Get started on your visa application and Fachsprachprüfung enrollment today to make the process as smooth as possible.

Good luck!