The German federal parliament has approved a bill aimed at fast‑tracking the recognition of foreign health‑care qualifications. Drafted by Health Minister Nina Warken (CDU), the measure was moved forward on Thursday with full support from the coalition parties and the Greens. The Alternative for Germany (AfD) voted against it, while the Left party chose to abstain.
The legislation seeks to simplify, harmonise and digitise the accreditation process for doctors, dentists, pharmacists and midwives, eliminating bureaucratic hurdles that delay the integration of qualified professionals. “Recognition processes should no longer be a bottleneck for the onboarding of skilled workers” Warken said. “Uniform standards and digital procedures relieve all parties of unnecessary paperwork”.
In addition, the bill allows federal states to verify the language skills of applicants from third‑country origin before they complete their professional qualifications. The measure still requires approval from the Bundesrat and is slated to enter into force on 1 November 2026.
