Gleichwertigkeit von DDR-Berufsabschlüssen zu Berufsabschlüssen der Bundesrepublik bestätigen lassen

If you have acquired a GDR skilled worker qualification or a GDR master craftsman qualification, this can be checked for the equivalence of the content of a Federal German training occupation or IHK advanced training qualification.

The Unification Treaty stipulates that state-recognized professional qualifications or certificates of competence acquired in the GDR are equivalent to each other and confer the same entitlements if they are equivalent. Equivalence is determined by the competent authority upon application.

As a rule, GDR skilled worker qualifications are equivalent to Federal German training occupations without the need for formal recognition. In individual cases, a certificate of equivalence is possible upon application. However, a new examination certificate will not be issued. An assignment of GDR master's degrees to IHK advanced training examinations can be checked and determined upon application. If equivalence is possible, you will receive a certificate showing your GDR occupation and the corresponding FRG occupation.

If it is a GDR skilled worker or master craftsman qualification that is related to industry, trade or the service sector, then the Chamber of Industry and Commerce is responsible. Applications must be submitted to the local Chamber of Industry and Commerce in whose catchment area the applicant's place of residence is located.

• a color copy of the skilled worker's or master craftsman's certificate
• a color copy of the skilled worker's or master craftsman's certificate
• a simple copy of the identity card
• a copy of the official documents in the event of a name change

GDR skilled worker or master craftsman qualification

A fee may be charged for processing the application, depending on the fee schedule of the local Chamber of Industry and Commerce. This can be found in the fee schedule of the responsible IHK.

You can only apply for an equivalence assessment of your GDR skilled worker or master craftsman qualification to a Federal German vocational or master craftsman qualification in writing.
You can only apply in writing.

• Please use the application form on the website of your local IHK. (As a rule: Application for equal status under the Unification Treaty)
• If possible, speak to the designated employee in advance by telephone to establish that the IHK also offers recognition for your GDR skilled worker or master craftsman qualification (the service is voluntary)
• Enclose all required documents with the application.
• Your documents will be checked and the application will be processed.
• You may receive a notification of fees.
• Once the fee has been paid, you will receive the notification of equivalence.

Contradiction

• Have the equivalence of GDR professional qualifications confirmed for professional qualifications in the Federal Republic of Germany
• Equivalence of GDR qualifications with Federal German qualifications can be established
• Possible for GDR skilled worker qualifications and GDR master craftsman qualifications
• Right to verification of equivalence
• Submit complete and notarized documents
• Procedure usually subject to a fee
• Responsible: local IHK

Please contact the Chamber of Industry and Commerce.

• Forms: IHK application form
• Online procedure possible: no
• Written form required: yes
• Personal appearance required: no