GDR skilled worker qualification or master craftsman qualification; application for equivalence assessment

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.

• The following documents are required:
  • a certified copy of the skilled worker or master craftsman certificate
  • a certified copy of the skilled worker or master craftsman certificate
  • a simple copy of the identity card
  • in the case of a change of name, a copy of the official documents

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

• If necessary, use the application form on the website of the local Chamber of Industry and Commerce (IHK) or under "Forms" (usually: Application for equivalence under the Unification Treaty).
• If possible, speak to the designated employee in advance by telephone to establish that the IHK is also responsible for your GDR skilled worker or master craftsman qualification.
• Enclose all the required documents with your 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.

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It usually takes up to 6 weeks to process the complete documents.

A fee may be charged for processing the application, depending on the fee schedule of the local Chamber of Industry and Commerce.