Even though Germany has a stable healthcare system; there is a major shortage in the nursing field. Nursing professionals are in high demand and their contribution is more important than ever. Persons from all countries (EU and Non-EU) have a chance to become a nurse in Germany and start working and living in Germany. Hospitals, nursing homes and other care facilities are always on the lookout for nursing personnel with various levels of qualification in order to meet the increasing demand in the healthcare and nursing professions.
Nursing in Germany is provided by different levels of professional and specialized practitioners. German-registered nurses are called Gesundheits- und Krankenpfleger (health- and sickness carer). Previously, the official name for a nurse practicing in Germany was Krankenschwester (female) and Krankenpfleger (male).
How to become a Nursing Professional
EU citizens can move to Germany and work in nursing without the need for a visa. Non-EU citizens can apply for a visa to Germany once you have a working contract or apprenticeship contract. There is also the option for applying for a job seeker visa for Germany when you want to work as nurse in Germany. There are three ways on how to become a nurse in Germany:
- Through training: If you do not yet have an education as a nurse: You can start a nursing apprenticeship in Germany. You will get paid during this training so that you can afford your personal living in Germany until you start working and getting a regular salary.
- By providing proof of existing work experience and professional qualifications: In case you already have an education as a nurse there are even better options for you. You may apply for a recognition of your skills in Germany and start working directly as a nurse.
- Through Education: Another option is to study nursing in Germany at university.
Nurses with vocational qualifications have several job opportunities in the following fields:
- Anesthesia and intensive care
- Operations and endoscopy
- Clinical geriatrics
- Rehabilitation and long-term care
- Palliative and hospice care
- Hygiene
- Nephrology
- Oncology
- Psychiatric care
Job opportunities for nurses with bachelor or master degree:
- Head of the department
- Care expert or consultant
- Specialist for health and social services
- Support and care assistance
- Palliative Care
- Specialist in culture-sensitive care
- Specialist in-home care
Germany has the most regulated yet flexible working hours. Some hospitals or in-home care agencies also offer the option of working 6-night shifts followed by 6 days off, for example. This system makes it easier to balance your work and family life.
Nursing is one of the highly valued professions in Germany and nurses will always have a job, regardless of the economic situation in the country. Germany is also well-known for its high-paying nursing positions. A nurse’s annual salary in Germany is approximately 33,000 EUR, or approximately 2,800 EUR gross per month. This amount varies according to your experience, qualifications, location, and work shift.
Nurses in Germany enjoy their hard-earned paid holidays for at least 20 working days per year. You are also entitled to 6 weeks of paid sick leave.