Visa for Recognition Partnership
In 2025, Germany continues to urgently need international professionals. Many applicants from non-EU countries bring valuable qualifications and work experience, but these degrees must often be officially recognized in Germany. Since June 2024, there is a new immigration tool: the Visa for Recognition Partnership. This visa enables foreign professionals to enter Germany and, together with a German employer, take the necessary steps to get their professional qualifications recognized locally. This article explains the requirements, process, benefits, and perspectives of this innovative visa.
What is the Visa for Recognition Partnership?
The Visa for Recognition Partnership is a new residence permit for qualified third-country nationals whose foreign professional qualification is not yet fully recognized in Germany. In partnership with a German employer, you can work while completing the recognition process and, if necessary, catch up on missing qualifications. The goal is to actively use the time before full recognition for both upskilling and gaining work experience, thereby accelerating your career start as a skilled professional.
Who is the Visa for Recognition Partnership for?
This visa is intended for:
- Professionals from non-EU countries who have completed at least a two-year vocational training or an equivalent degree abroad
- Applicants whose qualification is generally eligible for recognition, but where some requirements for full equivalence in Germany are still missing
- German employers willing to support applicants during their recognition and upskilling phase
Typical sectors include healthcare, nursing, skilled trades, technical fields, IT, and more—anywhere where practical work and on-the-job training are possible.
Requirements for the Visa for Recognition Partnership (2025)
To be granted this visa, the following criteria must be met:
- Existing qualification: You must hold a foreign vocational qualification of at least two years.
- Potential for recognition: Your qualification is basically eligible for recognition in Germany, but certain proof or qualifications are still missing.
- Agreement with a German employer: There must be an employment contract or a partnership agreement with a German employer who commits to supporting you during the recognition process.
- Deficit notice: You need a notice from the German authority stating what qualifications or documents are still missing (e.g., partial recognition).
- Language skills: Generally, at least A2-level German is required; for many fields, B1 or B2 is recommended.
- Financial security: During the upskilling phase, your living expenses and health insurance must be covered, usually by the employment contract.
- No serious criminal record: You must not have any serious criminal convictions.
Process: How the Recognition Partnership Works in Practice
The Visa for Recognition Partnership follows a clear process:
- 1. Start the recognition process: Apply to the responsible German authority to assess your professional qualification. You will receive a notice indicating any deficits or missing requirements.
- 2. Find an employer: Look for an employer willing to hire you under a recognition partnership. Many job platforms (such as jobsingermany.de) offer suitable job postings.
- 3. Sign a partnership agreement: Together with the employer, sign a recognition partnership agreement outlining support for courses, exams, and on-the-job training.
- 4. Apply for the visa: Submit your application, including all documents (deficit notice, employment contract, language certificate, etc.), at the German embassy or consulate in your home country.
- 5. Enter Germany and start work: After your visa is granted, travel to Germany and begin both work and upskilling measures with your employer. This often includes language courses and necessary exams.
- 6. Complete recognition and switch to a regular residence permit: Once you have successfully completed the upskilling and recognition, you can switch to a regular residence permit for skilled workers (such as the EU Blue Card).
What are the benefits of the Visa for Recognition Partnership?
- Gain work experience: You start working in Germany and gain valuable hands-on experience—even during the upskilling phase.
- Financial security: Your living expenses and insurance are usually covered by your employment contract.
- Faster entry to your profession: You can come to Germany and start working in your field more quickly than before.
- Individual upskilling support: You receive targeted support for courses, exams, and practical training.
- Long-term perspective: After recognition is complete, you can switch to a permanent residence permit.
Challenges and Tips for Applicants
Although the Visa for Recognition Partnership offers many opportunities, there are some challenges:
- Improve language skills early: Invest in German language skills to manage everyday life and upskilling requirements.
- Proactively seek employers: Many companies are still learning about the process—research and approach them directly.
- Prepare documents carefully: Missing documents can delay the process. Use checklists and seek advice if needed.
- Patience and perseverance: The recognition and upskilling process can be demanding but pays off in the long run.
Opportunities for Employers – Company Benefits
Employers also benefit from the recognition partnership:
- Early integration of international professionals into their teams
- Targeted support and retention of talented workers
- Assistance from authorities and advisory centers
- Contribution to meeting the company’s skilled labor needs
Trends 2025: More Digital Support and Expanding Sectors
In 2025, recognition procedures are becoming increasingly digital, with online platforms making applications and document submission easier. The Visa for Recognition Partnership is being expanded to more professions, especially in healthcare, technology, and skilled trades. Demand is rising—now is the time to take your chance!
FAQ: The five most important questions about the Visa for Recognition Partnership
- 1. How long is the visa valid?
The visa is generally issued for up to 18 months—enough time to complete your upskilling and recognition process. - 2. Can my family join me?
Family reunification is generally possible with this visa, as long as your financial security is ensured. - 3. Do I have to pay for upskilling myself?
Many costs are covered by the employer; some courses may require private payment, but grants may also be available. - 4. What if I do not succeed in recognition?
If you are unable to achieve recognition, you usually have to leave Germany after your visa expires. Repeating the process may be possible in some cases. - 5. Can I work fully during recognition?
Yes, you can work in your field, but often initially under supervision or with some restrictions until full recognition is granted.
German language skills: The key to success
Good German language skills are essential for the recognition partnership and long-term success in Germany. They make communication at work, in courses, and in everyday life easier. The better your German, the easier it will be to integrate and advance your career. Invest in language courses early—it’s truly worth it!