Recognition partnership
Recognition partnership according to Section 16d Paragraph 3: All information on requirements and procedures.
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Here you learn ...
what a recognition partnership is
what the requirements are
when the recognition partnership can be applied for
legal hurdles in the recognition partnership
Table of contents
1. What is a recognition partnership?
2. What requirements must be met?
3. Employment during the recognition partnership
4. This is how the application process works
5. FAQ on the recognition partnership
6. Conclusion Recognition Partnership
1. What is a recognition partnership?
The recognition partnership is a newly created residence permit under Section 16d Paragraph 3 of the Residence Act (AufenthG) , which has been in effect since March 1, 2024. It allows third-country nationals to begin the professional recognition process immediately upon entry into Germany . Unlike the previous deficit notice procedure, this eliminates the requirement to obtain recognition abroad in advance. This can significantly accelerate the process of starting employment in Germany, as there is no longer a need to wait for the visa process.
The residence permit granted under the recognition partnership allows for limited employment even during the recognition process. The new regulation is intended to counteract the shortage of skilled workers , particularly in the nursing sector , where there is a high demand for qualified personnel.
A key advantage is that the recognition partnership can be used independently of the deficit assessment . Applicants can therefore flexibly choose between the two procedures or even combine them. This creates individual flexibility for both foreign nursing staff and German employers.
2. What requirements must be met?
Specific entry requirements apply to the recognition partnership. The most important requirement is a completed foreign vocational training of at least two years or a recognized university degree abroad. This qualification must be confirmed by the Central Office for Foreign Education (ZAB) – a process that is now digitalized (so-called "digital information on professional qualifications ").
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In addition, applicants must demonstrate basic German language skills at level A2 . Language certificates from the Goethe Institute, TELC, or comparable institutions are generally accepted. This proof is a key component of the visa application and must be submitted to the embassy or immigration office.
The employer also plays a key role: They must make a concrete job offer and demonstrate that the training measures can actually be implemented. Furthermore, a written recognition partnership agreement must be concluded between employer and employee – many authorities provide a template for this (see, for example, the sample agreement for recognition partnerships with the government of Middle Franconia ).
3. Employment during the recognition partnership
During the recognition partnership, you may already take up employment. In the nursing field, however, it should be noted that the activity may initially only be performed as a nursing assistant —not as a qualified nurse (see Section 4 of the Nursing Act (Pflegegesetz )), as the nursing profession is a regulated activity . Full recognition will only be granted after the process has been completed and all requirements have been met.
Another special feature of the recognition partnership is the possibility of part-time employment of up to 20 hours per week . This can be pursued independently of the nursing profession and does not require additional approval from the Federal Employment Agency. This creates additional financial flexibility for migrants.
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Are you looking for a lawyer specializing in German immigration and visa law? We are happy to assist you with residence procedures before embassies, immigration authorities, and administrative courts. Our specialised attorneys are always by your side. Contact us to book an online appointment with a German immigration lawyer!
As part of the recognition partnership, the Federal Employment Agency also examines the so-called connectivity—that is, the professional connection between qualifications, the target occupation, and the actual activity . In addition, working conditions are reviewed to ensure fair wages and working hours.
4. This is how the application process works
The application for a recognized partnership is submitted either to the German diplomatic mission abroad (as a visa ) or, in exceptional cases, to the immigration authority in the country. The required documents, deadlines, and forms vary depending on the country and region. Careful preparation is therefore essential.
A key component of the application process is approval from the Federal Employment Agency. This agency examines, in particular, the employment conditions and the suitability of the foreign qualifications. Approval can be obtained in advance by the employer or automatically as part of the application process.
After entry, the recognition procedure must be initiated promptly, and residence must be registered within two weeks. Subsequently, an application must be made to convert the visa into a residence permit . If the recognition process is successfully completed, a transition to a residence permit for skilled workers under Section 18a of the Residence Act is possible – including a long-term perspective up to a settlement permit .
5. FAQ on the recognition partnership
What is a recognition partnership?
The recognition partnership is a residence permit pursuant to Section 16d Paragraph 3 of the Residence Act, which enables non-recognized skilled workers from third countries to enter the profession and undergo the recognition procedure in Germany.
Who can apply for the recognition partnership?
Third-country nationals with at least two years of vocational training and A2 language skills as well as a concrete job offer in Germany.
Can you work as a nurse?
During the recognition partnership, only work as a nursing assistant is permitted. Only after full recognition can you work as a nursing professional.
How long is the residence permit valid?
The residence permit is initially granted for a limited period. It can be converted into a longer-term residence permit after successful completion of the recognition process.
What happens after recognition?
After successful recognition, you can apply for a residence permit for skilled workers. This permit entitles you to skilled employment and also enables you to obtain a permanent residence permit later on.
6. Conclusion
The Recognition Partnership offers a forward-looking opportunity for nursing professionals from third countries to gain a foothold in Germany. It combines professional recognition and employment in a practical way, while also relieving the burden on the German nursing sector. The process offers significant advantages for both employers and migrants – provided the legal requirements are carefully observed. VISAGUARD supports you every step of the way – from verifying the requirements to successfully applying for a residence permit. Request advice now and get started with legal certainty.
