In Germany, the concept of the Reference profession This is particularly important when it comes to the recognition of foreign professional qualifications. A reference occupation is a comparable occupation that exists in Germany and is compared with the qualifications acquired abroad.
Why is the reference profession important?
- Recognition of qualificationsFor many professions it is necessary for your qualifications to be officially recognized in order to be allowed to work in Germany, especially in regulated professions such as doctors, teachers or craftsmen.
- Professional integrationIdentifying a reference occupation helps migrants to get a clear orientation on the labor market and to search specifically for suitable jobs.
How do you find the reference occupation?
- Take advantage of advice: There are advice centers such as the Recognition counseling or the Central Service Center for Professional Recognition (ZSBA)which provide support in the search for a suitable reference occupation.
- Online search: The platform anabine (recognition and assessment of foreign educational certificates) or the Recognition portal Germany offer comprehensive databases in which you can search for a suitable reference occupation.
- Analyze professional qualificationsThe competencies and experience from the home country are checked to see which match the requirements of a similar German profession.
- Career counselor or chambersChambers of Crafts, Chambers of Industry and Commerce or other competent bodies are often involved.
What happens after the reference occupation has been determined?
As soon as a reference occupation is found, a check is made:
- Whether equivalence existsThis involves analyzing whether the foreign qualification meets German standards.
- Which adaptation qualifications are necessaryIf there are gaps, adaptation courses, examinations or further training may be required.
Special notes:
- Language skillsMany professions require sufficient knowledge of German (usually at level B2 or C1).
- Professional experienceThis can help to compensate for differences in qualifications.
- CostsThe recognition process is often subject to a fee. Funding opportunities such as the Recognition grant program can help.
Determining the reference occupation is a key step on the path to professional integration and offers migrants in Germany the opportunity to make the best use of their skills and advance their careers.
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