Nurses
Recognition of your nursing qualification, German at B2 and the way into a German hospital.
Working in Germany
Sterile processing and surgical instruments: work in Germany
No surgery without properly reprocessed instruments. Hospitals in Germany are looking for skilled staff for the reprocessing of medical devices – from technicians in the sterile processing department to its head.
Sterile supply and medical technology are among SBP Management's core fields: we develop processes and qualifications in German hospitals and with MASOK Akademija in Serbia.
What you need
Recognition is handled by the authority of the federal state where you will work; details can differ between states. The responsible authority makes the binding decision.
- Experience in reprocessing medical devices, in the operating room or with surgical instruments
- For technician positions usually the Fachkunde I course under DGSV guidelines – for lead positions Fachkunde II or III
- German skills, at least B1 depending on the position
- Care, an understanding of hygiene and enjoyment of precise work
Your path to Germany
- 01
Getting to know you
We talk about your experience and check which qualifications you already have.
- 02
Qualification
We arrange DGSV courses and German courses – also through our partners in Serbia.
- 03
Hospital and visa
We find a suitable sterile processing department and support you with the employment contract and visa application.
- 04
Arrival
Onboarding, housing and authorities – we stay by your side.
Work in sterile processing
In the sterile processing department (in Germany AEMP or ZSVA, internationally often CSSD), surgical instruments are cleaned, disinfected, inspected, maintained, packed and sterilised – following set procedures and fully documented. Mistakes put patients at risk; that is why expertise and care are needed.
Qualification and recognition
Unlike nursing, work in sterile processing is not a profession that requires a state licence in Germany. Employers usually expect the courses defined by the German Society for Sterile Supply (DGSV): Fachkunde I for technicians, Fachkunde II and III for shift and department leads.
Which residence permit is possible for you depends on your qualification and professional experience. We review your case and show you the right route.
Surgical instruments and medical technology
Germany is one of the most important locations for surgical instruments. Besides reprocessing in hospitals, there are positions in maintenance, repair and manufacturing. With MASOK Akademija in Leskovac, we prepare skilled workers in practice for work with surgical instruments and in sterile supply.
Personal support from application to a successful start
Are you working in the medical field and would like to shape your professional future in Germany? SBP Management guides international professionals individually and transparently through the necessary steps.
- German language courses and linguistic preparation
- Visa and entry
- Recognition of foreign professional qualifications
- Recognition of additional qualifications and further training
- Family reunification
- Finding accommodation and initial administrative steps
- Salary classification and consideration of professional experience, where applicable
- Preparation, onboarding, and integration in German hospitals
Frequently asked questions
Do I need recognition to work in sterile processing?
A state licence like in nursing is not required. For the visa, however, recognition of your qualification or proof of your professional experience may be needed. We check what applies in your case.
What is Fachkunde I?
A course under the guidelines of the DGSV that teaches the basics of reprocessing medical devices: hygiene, cleaning and disinfection, sterilisation, instrument knowledge and documentation. Many employers require it or arrange it after you start.
Do I have to pay for SBP Management's support?
No. Our support is free of charge for applicants; the employer covers the costs.
Other professions
Doctors
Medical licence (Approbation), medical language exam and positions as resident or specialist.
Midwives
Recognition as a midwife and the way into the delivery room of a German hospital.
OR, anaesthesia, radiology, lab
Operating room and anaesthesia technicians, radiographers and lab technologists (OTA, ATA, MTR, MTL).