Foreign university degree

If your university is rated "H+" or "H+/-" in anabin and your degree is rated "equivalent" or "equivalent", your foreign university degree is considered comparable to a German university degree. You have thus provided proof of qualification as an academic specialist.

If the information in anabin shows that your degree is "conditionally comparable" or it is not assessed at all, it is not sufficient for a skilled worker residence title. However, you have provided proof that the foreign university degree is recognized by the state. This is relevant in the case of the opportunity card, a recognition partnership and a visa for experienced professionals.

The database is only available in German. You can find instructions on how to use the database here.

If your university or degree program cannot be found in the database, you can also apply for an individual certificate evaluation. This classifies your foreign university degree in the German education system. The application is made online. You can find details here. The processing time for the certificate evaluation is usually:

• 3 months for a regular application;

• 2 months for a certificate assessment in the accelerated skilled worker procedure;

• 2 weeks for a certificate assessment for an EU Blue Card.

The documents to be submitted can be determined online using a checklist . This can be downloaded here. You may also need to have documents translated. The certificate assessment is subject to a fee (as of 2025: €208).

ATTENTION: If you want to work in a regulated profession, you must undergo a recognition procedure must be completed.