Equivalence test
You submit an application to the competent authority for permission to use the professional title 'veterinary technical assistant' or 'veterinary technical assistant'. The competent authority will then check whether you meet all the requirements. An important prerequisite is the professional qualification. The competent authority compares your professional qualification from abroad with the German professional qualification as a veterinary technical assistant. The competent authority will check whether your professional qualification is equivalent. The professional qualification is equivalent if there are no significant differences between your foreign professional qualification and the German professional qualification.
Possible results of the exam
If your professional qualification is equivalent, your foreign professional qualification will be recognised. The authority can confirm the result to you in writing. You still have to meet the other requirements and prove your language skills. Then you will receive permission to use the professional title of "Veterinary Technical Assistant" or "Veterinary Technical Assistant".
If the competent authority identifies significant differences, you can compensate for the differences through your professional practice and other knowledge and skills (lifelong learning). You must provide proof of professional experience. Knowledge and skills must be certified by an authority in your country of origin.
However, this knowledge may not be sufficient. You will not be able to compensate for the essential differences. In this case, your foreign professional qualification will not be recognised.
However, the competent authority will tell you the main differences and why you cannot compensate for the significant differences through your professional practice. You will not be allowed to work as a veterinary technical assistant. However, the competent authority will offer you the opportunity to complete an adaptation course or take a knowledge test as a compensatory measure. If you successfully complete this measure, you will be allowed to work in the profession.
Adaptation period or knowledge test
If your professional qualification is not equivalent, you can choose between a knowledge test and a maximum three-year adaptation period. The knowledge test tests your knowledge in specific subjects and areas. These subjects and the exact procedure of the examination are regulated by law. The knowledge test is a practical exam with an exam interview. If you complete the adaptation period or pass the knowledge test (and meet all other requirements), you will be granted permission to use the professional title of "Veterinary Technical Assistant" or "Veterinary Technical Assistant".
Remedy
You can take legal action against the decision of the competent authority. The decision will then be reviewed. Details on this can be found in the information on legal remedies at the end of your decision. We recommend that you first talk to the competent authority before taking legal action against the decision.
