If you trained as a nurse outside the EU, you will usually need a "Nostrifikation" to work in your profession in Austria. This guide explains the process step by step, which documents you need and what to watch out for.
Key takeaways
- Diplomas from non-EU countries usually require Nostrifikation; EU/EEA qualifications are generally recognised more easily.
- The legal basis is the Health and Nursing Care Act (GuKG).
- Gaps in your training are closed via supplementary exams or an adaptation course.
- German at B2 level is almost always a requirement.
What does Nostrifikation mean?
Nostrifikation is the official recognition of a foreign qualification as equivalent to an Austrian one. For nursing professions, the competent body checks whether your training matches the Austrian one in content and scope.
EU/EEA vs. non-EU
If you come from an EU/EEA country or Switzerland, a simpler automatic or general recognition usually applies. For non-EU qualifications, Nostrifikation is normally the route.
Who needs it?
Essentially anyone who wants to practise a regulated health or nursing profession in Austria and gained their qualification outside the EU/EEA — for example as a registered nurse (DGKP), nursing specialist assistant or nursing assistant.
Which documents do you need?
- Nursing diploma or final certificate (certified)
- Detailed subject and hours overview (curriculum/transcript)
- Proof of your right to practise in your home country
- Proof of identity (passport)
- Certified German translations
- Proof of German (usually B2)
Tip
Use court-certified translators and clarify early whether documents need an apostille. It often saves weeks.
The process step by step
- 1
Submit the application
File the Nostrifikation application with the competent body (depends on profession and federal state).
- 2
Equivalence assessment
Your training is compared with the Austrian curriculum.
- 3
Decision on requirements
If differences are found, you receive conditions: supplementary exams or an adaptation course.
- 4
Complete the requirements
You sit the required exams or complete the course.
- 5
Recognition & licence
After a positive outcome you obtain recognition and can register in the professional register.
Time and cost
How long it takes and what it costs depends heavily on your country of origin, the completeness of your documents and the required supplements. Realistically plan for several months. Ask the competent body directly for exact fees and deadlines.
No guarantee
Laws and responsibilities can change. For binding information, always rely on official sources (e.g. the Health Ministry, AMS, the competent authority of your federal state).
Frequently asked questions
How long does Nostrifikation take in Austria?
Nostrifikation usually takes several months. Exactly how long depends on your country of origin, how complete your documents are and the supplementary exams required. The competent body gives you binding timelines.
How much does it cost to get a nursing diploma recognised?
You pay procedural fees plus the cost of certified translations and any supplementary exams. There is no flat rate — the exact amount depends on your case and is set by the competent body.
Do I need German for the recognition?
In practice yes: working in nursing usually requires German at B2 level. Without sufficient proof of German, a licence to practise is generally not possible.
Can I work in Austria before recognition?
Independent practice is not permitted without recognition. Depending on the case, supervised support roles may be possible — the exact limits are set by the employer together with the competent body.
What is an adaptation course?
An adaptation course is a time-limited, practical course that closes gaps in your training — as an alternative or complement to supplementary exams.
