for candidates

Radiologic Technologists (Radiologieassistenten)

To work as a Radiology Assistant or Medical Technical Radiology Assistant (MTRA) in Germany, foreign-trained professionals must go through an accreditation process to have their qualifications recognized. This ensures that your education and skills meet German standards. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to get accredited as a Radiology Assistant in Germany:

1. German Language Proficiency
  • B2-Level German: You need to demonstrate proficiency in German at a B2 level. This certification can be obtained from recognized institutions like the Goethe Institute or Telc.
  • Medical German: Some states might require additional proficiency in medical terminology through a medical language exam (Fachsprachprüfung).
2. Recognition of Foreign Qualification
  • Application to the Relevant Authority: Submit your application for recognition to the state recognition office (Anerkennungsstelle) or health ministry in the federal state where you plan to work.
  • Required Documents:
    • Radiology Degree/Certificate: Your diploma or certificate proving your qualification as a Radiology Assistant.
    • Transcripts: Detailed records of the courses you completed during your training.
    • Proof of Work Experience: If you have prior work experience, submit documentation showing the nature of your duties and duration.
    • Proof of Identity: Passport or national ID.
    • CV (Curriculum Vitae): A detailed CV outlining your education, training, and professional experience.
    • Health Certificate: A medical certificate from a German doctor confirming that you are physically and mentally fit to work.
    • Proof of Good Conduct: A criminal record certificate from your home country and/or Germany.
  • Certified Translations: All documents not in German must be translated by a certified translator. Some documents may need official certification.
3. Equivalency Check (Defizitbescheid)
  • Assessment of Your Qualification: The recognition authority will compare your foreign qualifications to German standards for MTRAs.
    • Full Recognition: If your qualification is deemed equivalent, you will receive full recognition.
    • Partial Recognition: If there are gaps or deficiencies in your training, you may be required to take further steps, such as additional training or passing an examination.
4. Compensatory Measures
  • If your qualifications are not considered fully equivalent, the recognition authority may recommend:
    • Adaptation Course (Anpassungslehrgang): Additional training to fill gaps in your education.
    • Knowledge Exam (Kenntnisprüfung): An examination that tests your theoretical and practical knowledge according to German standards for radiology assistants.
  • Working While Training: In some cases, you may be allowed to work under supervision with a temporary permit while you complete these requirements.
5. Temporary License (Berufserlaubnis)
  • Temporary License: While waiting for full recognition or completing required training, you can apply for a temporary license (Berufserlaubnis), which allows you to work under supervision for a limited time (typically up to two years).
6. Final Recognition and License to Practice
  • Once you have completed any required training or passed the knowledge exam, you will receive full recognition of your qualification.
  • After recognition, you will be granted a license to practice as a Medical Technical Radiology Assistant (MTRA) in Germany.
7. Registration with the State Health Authorities
  • After receiving your license, you may need to register with the relevant state health authority or professional organization for MTRAs. This is essential for maintaining professional standards and gaining access to continued education and career development.
8. Work Visa and Residence Permit (Non-EU Citizens)
  • Work Visa: If you are from a non-EU country, you will need to apply for a work visa once your qualifications have been recognized.
  • Residence Permit: Upon arrival in Germany, you must apply for a residence permit to legally live and work as an MTRA.