There are approximately 200 different professions in the skilled trades in Germany.
For 53 professions in the skilled trades, you need a specific professional qualification. These are the "trades subject to licensing". Only with the necessary professional qualification are you allowed to work independently in these professions on a permanent basis. Further regulations apply to these 53 regulated professions (see under "Related topics").
All other professions in the skilled trades are not regulated. This means: If you want to work permanently self-employed in these professions, you do not need a specific professional qualification.
You do not have to have your foreign professional qualification recognized. However, you have the right to a recognition procedure. The procedure is called "equivalence determination". An equivalence determination brings you advantages:
- At the end of the procedure, you will receive a notice of equivalence. The notice is proof of your professional qualification.
- The notice is an official and legally secure document. You and your employers can trust its content.
- The certificate increases your chances on the job market. Employers can better assess your professional qualification with the notification.
The regional chambers of skilled crafts are responsible for determining equivalence in the skilled crafts sector.
The responsible offices will advise you before you submit your application and identify the appropriate occupation in the skilled crafts sector for you.