Visa routes: recognition visa vs skilled worker visa vs Opportunity Card
Indian therapists usually enter Germany on one of three routes. The recognition visa (§16d) is for people who hold a partial recognition and need to complete an adaptation measure in Germany — this is the most common route for physiotherapists and occupational therapists. The skilled worker visa (§18a) is for those already fully recognised with a job offer. The Opportunity Card (Chancenkarte) is a points-based job-search route that lets you enter and look for work, but it does not replace professional recognition.
The three routes compared
| Route | Who it fits | Key requirement |
|---|---|---|
| Recognition visa (§16d) | Partial recognition; adaptation measure still to complete | Recognition decision naming the measure, plus proof you can support yourself (salary or blocked account) |
| Skilled worker visa (§18a) | Full recognition already granted | Berufsurkunde and a concrete job offer |
| Opportunity Card | Qualified but still searching, no recognition decision yet | Points for qualification, German/English, experience and age; self-funding during the search |
The Opportunity Card gets you into the country — it does not let you practise as a therapist. You still need Anerkennung before working under the protected title.
What every route needs
- Valid passport with sufficient validity and blank pages
- Apostilled, sworn-translated qualification documents
- Proof of German at the level the route and employer require
- Health insurance valid from the day you enter
- Proof of financing — a signed employment contract or a blocked account
- A booked appointment at the German mission responsible for your region in India
Timing
The visa appointment is often the least predictable step, since availability varies by consulate and season. Book the slot as soon as your recognition decision or contract is in hand, and keep your document pack ready so a short-notice appointment is not wasted. Current requirements and fees are on the Auswärtiges Amt visa pages and Make it in Germany.
MedUniverse guides Indian physiotherapists and occupational therapists through this end to end — German language training up to B2, document translation and apostille, the recognition file, employer interviews and relocation. Book a free consultation or see current openings.
Official sources
- Residence permit for recognition of foreign qualifications (§16d)
- Opportunity Card (Chancenkarte) — Federal Government
- Auswärtiges Amt — visa information and fees