Working as an Engineer in Germany
Germany stands out as a leader in numerous high-tech fields. Research, science and technology have a long tradition in this country. However, the shortage of qualified personnel remains a significant challenge in the German economy.
However, the disadvantage of one is the advantage of the other – in this case, yours! As a well-trained engineer, you have good opportunities to establish yourself professionally in Germany.
If you are an engineer and want to work in Germany, that’s great!
If you are thinking of working in Germany as a civil engineer, mechanical engineer or chemical engineer, among others, there are important things to keep in mind.
Important Considerations
Before making the decision to work in Germany, you should take into account aspects such as the validation of your engineering degree and the adaptation to the German working and living culture.
It is also crucial to master the German language, as effective communication is essential in the working environment.
Recognition of Engineering Degree in Germany
If you have not obtained your university degree at a German university, practicing the profession of engineer in Germany is conditioned by the recognition of your professional qualifications, as engineering is one of the regulated professions.
Without this recognition, you will not be able to use the professional title of Ingenieur in Germany.
The recognition of diplomas refers to the recognition of qualifications that the competent entity makes on a higher education degree or a professional training acquired abroad.
Who is responsible for the recognition of the engineering degree?
Responsible for the homologation of your engineering degree are the Chambers of Engineers.
Which chamber is competent in your case depends on where you live.
Here is a list of the German Chambers of Engineers and their contact details.
If you do not live in Germany yet, you have to contact the Chamber of Engineers of the place where you want to move to.
- Which chamber of engineers is responsible for recognizing your title depends on where you live in Germany.
For example, if you live in Hamburg, you should use this form.
If you are living in Stuttgart, the competent chamber is the one in Baden-Württemberg.
In North Rhine-Westphalia, there is no central office. Here, the process of homologation of the Engineering Degree must be carried out at the governmental authority corresponding to your place of residence.
And as a last example, the Ingenieurkammer Sachsen is the competent authority in Saxony.
Documents for the recognition as an Ingenieur or Ingenieurin in Germany
In order to be able to call yourself Ingenieur, you must have your university degree recognized in Germany.
The documents that are usually required for the recognition as an engineer in Germany are:
- A certificate of nationality, e.g. passport.
- Residence permit
- A certificate of current residence
- Certificates of education, e.g. university diploma
- Diploma Supplement, Analytical Certificate, Appendix to the examination certificate
In case your documents are not written in German, they must be translated into German.
We are experts in the certified translation of diplomas, deeds and certificates.
Steps to follow
- Find out from the Professional Chamber in your region what exact documents you need for the validation of your degree.
- Order the necessary translations directly through the store or send us your documents using the contact form.
- Submit your application for recognition together with your original certificates and sworn translations to the competent authority.
You will find the sworn translation of your diplomas and certificates as well as your personal documents in our online store. If you need a sworn translation of many documents, you can request a quote through our contact form.
There is no need to send the original documents – we just need a good scan.
- Order your translation electronically signed as well. This way you can also use it for the job application.
Of course, if you are not yet in Germany it gets more complicated.
But as an engineer there are several options to obtain a residence permit in Germany. Here are some of the main ones:
Visas for Engineers (who want to live in Germany)
- Qualified Employment Visa (Blue Card): If you have a job offer in Germany and meet the qualification requirements, you can apply for an EU Blue Card. This visa is designed for highly qualified professionals and facilitates residence and work in Germany.
And even if you do not yet have a job offer, there is the possibility to obtain a visa:
- Job seekers visa: If you want to look for a job in Germany, you can obtain a job search visa that will allow you to stay in the country for a certain period of time to look for work related to your education.
Quote for the certified translation of your documents
Your experience as an engineer in Germany
Have you had your engineering degree recognized in Germany? What are your experiences? What would you like to have known sooner?
Feel free to leave us a comment.
