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Medical licence (Approbation): the route after the 2026 reform
On 26 March 2026 the Bundestag made the knowledge examination the standard route for non-EU medical qualifications.
Reviewed by: Hazem Ibrahim (M. Sc.) · 2026-08-03 Reviewed
The Approbation is granted by the competent authority of each federal state, which is why procedures and waiting times differ substantially across Germany.
The reform at a glance
- Adopted by the Bundestag26 March 2026
- Announced entry into force1 November 2026 (subject to Bundesrat)
- New standard route (non-EU)direct knowledge examination
- Document-based equivalence checkremains optional only
Verify before you plan
The examination will be detailed later in the licensing regulation and states may adopt different transitional rules. Confirm your individual case in writing with the competent state authority.
Checklist
- Contact the competent state authority in writing
- Ask about transitional rules
- Build medical German to C1
Official sources
- Bundesgesundheitsministerium — Act to accelerate recognition in the health professions (26 Mar 2026)Federal Ministry of Health · 2026-08-03
- Bundesärztekammer — Position of the German Medical AssociationGerman Medical Association · 2026-08-03
- Anerkennung in Deutschland — Regulated professionsFederal recognition portal · 2026-08-03
General organisational information — not legal advice and not representation before authorities.