Physiotherapist in Germany
Physiotherapy is a regulated, sought-after profession in Germany. Karriere Fähre supports you from German through recognition to hiring.
The profession
The physiotherapist rehabilitates and relieves patients through movement, manual techniques and tailored exercises, after injury, surgery or for chronic conditions.
Salary in Germany
About €2,800 to €3,600 gross per month, median around €3,450 (Entgeltatlas 2025). During an adaptation programme: ~€2,300 to €2,700.
Training duration
Physiotherapy training lasts 3 years. Already qualified: the timeline depends on recognition (equivalence check) and German B2.
Employers hiring
Physiotherapy practices, rehabilitation clinics, hospitals, sports centres and elderly-care facilities.
Where you can work
Orthopaedic, neurological, sports and geriatric rehabilitation, in practices, clinics or at home.
Career progression
Specialisations (manual therapy, neurology, sport), leadership roles, teaching, or opening your own practice.
German level required
B2 is required for recognition and practice. Karriere Fähre trains you up to B2 in Douala.
Recognition
Regulated profession: a state authorisation is required after an equivalence check; an adaptation measure (course or exam) may be required.
Visa and residence permit
Visa and residence permit for skilled workers (§ 18a/18b), or entry for on-site recognition (§ 16d). We handle the paperwork.
The process with Karriere Fähre
Profile assessment, German up to B2, file and recognition, employer matching, visa and paperwork, then support with settling in.
Frequently asked questions
- Is physiotherapy regulated?
- Yes. A state authorisation is required after an equivalence check of your diploma. We support you through it.
- Do I need German?
- B2 is required; we train you up to that level before departure.
Salaries: Entgeltatlas (Federal Employment Agency), 2025. Indicative figures, not guaranteed. Recognition (regulated profession) and visas: competent German authorities.