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Education & Training

Recognizing foreign master's degrees

Application to the Chamber of Crafts for recognition of a foreign master craftsman’s degree in order to be eligible to use the title of “Meister” in Germany and to work as a plant manager.

Processing: approx. 2 months
Success rate: 71.0 %

How to proceed

  1. 1

    Contact the relevant Chamber of Crafts

    The Chamber of Crafts and Trades (HWK) in the city where the business is located or has its registered office has jurisdiction.

  2. 2

    Have certified translations prepared

    Have all documents translated by a certified translator.

  3. 3

    Submit an application

    Submit the documents to the Chamber of Crafts and wait for the notification of recognition.

Required documents

  • Foreign master craftsman's certificate (original + certified translation)Mandatory
  • Photo IDMandatory

Responsible authority

The authority of your main place of residence is responsible.Find authority →

Fees

Varies by case

Processing time

approx. 2 months

Official: max. approx. 2 months

Online application

In person or by post

Common mistakes

  • • Missing certified translations
  • • No proof of work experience

Common reasons for rejection

  • • Training content is not comparable
  • • Documents incomplete

You can usually file an objection against a rejection.

The essentials before applying

Who is eligible?

Individuals with a foreign master craftsman’s certificate or comparable vocational qualification who wish to work as self-employed tradespeople in Germany.

Income limit

The limit varies by household and region – see the table at the responsible authority or in the application assistant.

Processing time

Nationwide: approx. approx. 2 months

Success rate

approx. 71.0 % (estimate)

Most common mistakes

  • •Missing certified translations
  • •No proof of work experience

Common reasons for rejection

  • •Training content is not comparable
  • •Documents incomplete

Alternatives

  • Check related services in the application assistant
  • Use social counselling before applying

If rejected

File a written objection within 30 days – with reasons why the decision is wrong and any missing evidence.

Related services

ANKOM Recognition Counseling

Free initial consultation on the recognition of foreign qualifications

Questions & Answers

Which EU qualifications are recognized?▼

EU/EEA qualifications are given priority in the evaluation process in accordance with the EU Recognition Directive.

Read more