Your career in Germany — supported from the start

International Nurses and Healthcare Professionals at Sana

Are you a healthcare professional from abroad and interested in working in Germany? At Sana, you will find secure employment, modern workplaces, and long-term career opportunities in one of Germany’s largest healthcare groups.

Whether you are a nurse, doctor, or specialist in another field — we support you on your way to living and working in Germany.

View current job opportunities

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A strong healthcare group with nationwide presence

About Sana — shaping healthcare together

With around 40,000 employees in more than 120 companies, Sana is one of the leading healthcare providers in Germany.
Our hospitals and medical facilities treat millions of patients every year.
People from many countries already work at Sana. Teamwork, professionalism, and respectful cooperation define our daily work.

Ärzte und Pflegefachkräfte am Stationsstützpunkt
Thüringen Schleswig- Holstein Sachsen-Anhalt Sachsen Rheinland- Pfalz Saarland Nordrhein-Westfalen Niedersachsen Mecklenburg-Vorpommern Hessen Hamburg Bremen Brandenburg Berlin Bayern Baden-Württemberg
Our locations across Germany

Explore Sana locations

Sana operates hospitals and healthcare facilities throughout Germany.
Use the interactive map to explore our locations and find opportunities in your preferred region.

Berlin

Hessen

Mecklenburg-Vorpommern

Niedersachsen

Schleswig-Holstein

Reliable conditions and professional standards

Working at Sana and in the German healthcare system

Germany offers high standards in healthcare, structured working conditions, and strong employee protection.
At Sana, you benefit from:

  • Secure employment in modern hospitals
  • Salary based on collective agreements (tariff system)
  • Additional payments for shifts, nights, weekends, and holidays
  • Structured working hours and reliable shift planning
  • Training and professional development opportunities
  • Clear career paths
  • Interdisciplinary teamwork

Nurses play a central role in patient care — and we support your professional growth.

Explore nursing jobs at Sana

Eine Stationsleitung und Pflegefachkraft besprechen sich
What you need to work as a nurse in Germany

Your path to Germany — requirements for international nurses

To work as a nurse in Germany, certain legal requirements must be met.

Recognition of your professional qualification

  • Recognition of your nursing qualification is required by law.
  • The responsible authority depends on the federal state where you will work.
  • We provide guidance on the process and required documents.
  • During recognition, employment as a nursing assistant may be possible.

Language skills

  • Usually B2 level German (CEFR) is required for nursing roles.
  • We provide guidance and can connect you with recognized language exam providers.

Residence permit and visa

  • Non-EU applicants need a work visa for qualified employment
  • We provide necessary employer documents
  • Your active participation is required

Arrival and settling in Germany
After your arrival, we support you in settling in, depending on local possibilities.
This may include guidance on:

  • Health insurance
  • Registration with local authorities
  • Everyday administrative matters
  • Orientation in your new environment
Zwei Pflegefachkräfte im Gespräch
Guidance throughout your journey

Our support for international nurses

Starting a new life in another country is a big step. We support you throughout your journey.

  • Guidance before arrival
  • Structured onboarding at your workplace
  • Support related to housing and local orientation
  • Language support and intercultural training
  • Mentoring by experienced colleagues
  • Guidance with administrative procedures
  • Information about family reunification options
  • Integration activities and exchange opportunities

Our goal is that you feel supported both professionally and personally.

Quality of life and social security

Living and working in Germany

Germany offers a high quality of life, social security, and safe living conditions.
Sana locations are spread across the country: from large cities to smaller regions – all with good infrastructure, public transport, and recreational opportunities.
 

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Reinigungskraft wird auf Station eingearbeitet
Career paths beyond nursing

Opportunities for doctors, IT specialists, and service staff

In addition to nurses, Sana also offers opportunities for:

  • Doctors with medical license or temporary practice permit
  • IT specialists in hospital IT, medical technology, or data analysis
  • Service staff in operational support roles

Support during recruitment and integration depends on the profession, location, and individual situation.

From application to starting your job

Your application process — step by step

  1. Submit your application online
  2. Initial interview
  3. Review of your documents (German or English)
  4. Job offer and contract proposal (usually required for visa and recognition processes)
  5. Support with visa and recognition procedures
  6. Start working at Sana

You can apply directly for open positions via our job portal.

View open positions

Ausbilderin erklärt einer Auszubildenen am PC Vorgehensweise
Important information at a glance

FAQ – Frequently asked questions: Nurses

  • Can I apply without recognition of my qualification?

    Yes. We support you during the recognition process. In many cases, you can start as a nursing assistant.

  • What language level is required?

    Usually B2 German.

  • Will Sana help me find accommodation?

    We provide guidance regarding housing. In some locations, temporary shared accommodation may be available.

  • Can my family join me?

    Family reunification is generally possible depending on legal requirements and local capacities.
     

  • What are the working hours?

    Nursing staff usually work shifts (morning, evening, night).

FAQ – Frequently asked questions: Doctors

  • What do I need to work as a doctor in Germany?

    A recognized medical degree, Approbation (full license) or temporary practice permit, and C1 medical German.

  • Can I work before receiving Approbation?

    Yes, with a temporary permit tied to a specific hospital.

FAQ – Frequently asked questions: General

  • How long does the process take?

    Usually at least 6–9 months, depending on recognition and visa procedures.

  • How secure is the job?

    Employment often begins with a fixed-term contract, with the prospect of long-term employment after successful recognition and performance.

Jetzt Ausbildung bei Sana starten
Take the next step

Your entry point to Sana

Ready to start your career in Germany?
Browse current job opportunities at all Sana locations and apply directly online.

View current job opportunities