The Approbation is the full, permanent licence to practise in Germany; the Berufserlaubnis is a temporary permit some authorities issue in the meantime. With an EU degree the title is recognised automatically — but the procedure takes patience.
In brief
- In Berlin the competent authority is the LAGeSo (Landesamt für Gesundheit und Soziales).
- With an Italian (EU) degree: automatic recognition, no equivalence exam.
- Realistic duration in Berlin: ~4–6 months in total if your German is ready.
What you need
- Approbation application to the LAGeSo (form + documents from Step 1)
- B2 certificate + FSP attestation
- Medical certificate (ärztliche Bescheinigung, from a German doctor)
- German Führungszeugnis (Belegart 0) + Italian criminal record certificate
- Administrative fee (~€210)
From our experience
Submit your application as early as possible, even incomplete and even before the FSP: the file is processed in parallel and missing documents can follow. And the golden rule: never send originals — only certified copies, by registered mail.
Submit your application as early as possible, even incomplete and even before the FSP: the file is processed in parallel and missing documents can follow. And the golden rule: never send originals — only certified copies, by registered mail.
What's next?
With the Approbation (or Berufserlaubnis) on its way, it's time to find your first position as Assistenzarzt.
Questions about this step? Check the FAQ or write to us.