Working as a Specialist Physician (Facharzt / Fachärztin) in Germany
Specialist physicians treat complex cases in hospitals, practices and medical centres. Foreign-trained doctors may need both recognition of their basic medical licence and separate recognition of Facharztweiterbildung.
What the job involves
- Diagnose and treat specialist cases
- Lead ward rounds or outpatient consultations
- Supervise junior doctors
- Perform specialist procedures
Requirements
- Medical degree and Approbation pathway
- Specialist training documents
- German B2 + medical German C1
- Recognition by Ärztekammer
Recognition of your qualification
Requires Approbation plus recognition of specialist training by the competent Ärztekammer (medical chamber) if working as a Facharzt/Fachärztin.
German you'll need
This role typically expects around C1. German is essential for daily work and for the professional licence.
What you can earn
| Entry level | €6,800–€8,500 / month (gross) |
| Experienced | €8,500–€14,000 / month (gross) |
Indicative gross monthly pay — varies by region, employer and collective agreements.
Possible routes to Germany
Depending on your situation, these routes may apply:
- Recognition measures (§16d AufenthG)
- Skilled Worker with academic training (§18b)
- EU Blue Card (§18b, academic + salary threshold)
- Opportunity Card / Chancenkarte (§20a, points)
Typical employers
- Hospitals and university hospitals
- Specialist practices
- Medical care centres (MVZ)
- Rehabilitation clinics
Outlook
Demand is particularly strong because many physicians are retiring and specialist services are unevenly distributed regionally.
Your next steps
- Start Approbation process
- Contact the relevant Ärztekammer
- Prepare evidence of rotations and specialist training
- Secure a hospital or MVZ position
Not sure this path fits you?
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Make-it-in-Germany · Anerkennung in Deutschland · Federal Employment Agency Fachkräfteengpassanalyse
General information, as of 2025. DeutschBound provides orientation and German-language training — not legal advice, visa application services or job guarantees. Always confirm current requirements with the official sources above.