Nurse Salary in Germany: What to Expect in 2026?

Are you someone considering a career in Nursing? Want to know more about the prospects and nurse salary in Germany? Or are you questioning whether Germany is good for nurses? Worry not, as all these questions will be answered here.

Understanding the financial aspects and earning potential is crucial when considering a career in nursing. This guide offers valuable insights into nurse salary in Germany for Indians, serving as a valuable resource for nurses interested in working in Germany.

What is the Average Salary for Nurses in Germany for Indians? 

The average salary for nurses in Germany is affected by multiple factors like experience, location, and specialisation. On average, a qualified nurse in Germany earns somewhere between EUR 33,000 and EUR 50,000 per year. 

Average Nurse Salary in Germany Based on Qualification 

The average nurse salary in Germany, based on education, i.e. BSc nurse salary in Germany to specialized nurses can be checked in the table below:

Average Nurse Salary in Germany Based on Job Profile

Generally, the nurse practitioner salary in Germany varies depending on factors such as experience, qualifications, and the region of employment. On average, a nurse's salary in Germany per hour is approximately between EUR 15 and EUR 30.

Moving further, let us explore the average salary of a nurse in Germany that you can expect to draw, by working as a nurse there. Salaries as per different job profiles include

1. Registered Nurse Salary in Germany

The average annual RN salary in Germany varies based on years of experience. The table below illustrates the earning potential of a registered Germany nurse salary in Indian rupees along with in EUR os.

2. Geriatric Nurse Salary in Germany

As of May 2023, the average salary for a Staff Nurse - RN - Geriatric in Germany is USD 79,213. However, the salary range typically falls between USD 71,738 and USD 91,592.

It's important to note that Nurse salary ranges can vary significantly based on factors such as education, certifications, additional skills, and years of experience in the profession.

3. Nursing Assistant Salary in Germany

Nursing Assistant salaries in Germany vary from 1,150 EUR to 3,980 EUR per month, depending on factors like experience, skills, gender, and location.

The average salary mentioned earlier includes housing, transport, and other benefits, which may vary individually.

4. ICU Nurse Salary in Germany

The Economic Research Institute estimates that the average ICU nurse salary in Germany is expected to witness a growth of a minimum of 8% in the next 5 years, from the current average of EUR 59,269 to EUR 64,291.

The current per month ICU nurse salary in Germany in Indian rupees is about Rs. 2,511 respectively

5. Operating Room Nurse Salary in Germany

The average gross salary for an operating room registered nurse in Germany is EUR 61,263 per year or approximately EUR 29 per hour. Additionally, they receive an average bonus of EUR 1,005.

Entry-level operating room registered nurses with 1-3 years of experience earn an average salary of EUR 43,440, while senior-level nurses with 8+ years of experience earn an average salary of EUR 75,848.

6. Nurse Anaesthetist Salary in Germany

A nurse anaesthetist, also known as a certified registered nurse anaesthetist (CRNA), is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) responsible for administering anaesthesia and other medications, as well as monitoring and providing care to individuals undergoing or recovering from anaesthesia.

Anaesthesia nurse salary in Germany is about EUR 130,142 annually, and the Economic Research Institute estimates that the nurse anaesthetist salary in Germany, even if it witnesses a minimum increase of 8% in the coming 5 years, then the annual average would increase to EUR 141,169 by 2028.

7. GNM Nursing Salary in Germany

The salary of a General Nursing and Midwifery (GNM) nurse in Germany can vary depending on factors such as experience, location, and additional qualifications. Generally, the salary range for GNM nurses in Germany is around EUR 2,500 to EUR 4,000 per month.

Now that you have explored the average salary of nurses in Germany per month, let us learn more about the applicable tax rates for nurse pay in Germany

Factors Influencing Nurse Salary in Germany

We are aware that experience and qualifications do have an impact on the earning potential of an employee. However, there are yet other factors that have an impact on the nurse salary in Germany. Let us find out what factors regulate the Germany nurse salary per month.

• Region
• Working Hours
• Brutto-Netto Ratio

1. Average Nurse Salary in Germany Based on Region

Region impacts nurse salaries in Germany. Regions with higher elderly populations or disease outbreaks may have greater demand and higher salaries. These differences are influenced by regional healthcare demands and economic factors.

For example, Baden-Württemberg has the highest average yearly salary at 51,435 EUR , followed by Hessen and Hamburg with salaries of 51,421 EUR and 50,435 EUR , respectively.

2. Average Nurse Salary in Germany Based on Working Hours/Days

In Germany, hospitals pay additional costs for employee protection. Night shifts offer a 25-30% surcharge, with the first 25% tax-free. Nurses working at night, Sundays, or on holidays receive higher pay - 40% tax-free for nights, 50% for Sundays, and 150% for holidays.

Additionally, if you work extra hours and additional shifts, you will receive 5 to 6 weeks of paid vacation each year as compensation.

3. Average Nurse Salary in Germany Based on Gross - Net Ratio

When considering employment in Germany, it's important to understand the distinction between gross (brutto) and net (netto) salaries. Your employment contract typically states the gross salary i.e. the amount before taxes and social security contributions.

After these deductions, you will receive the net salary, which is approximately 35% to 45% less than the gross salary mentioned in the contract.

Nursing Courses Offered in Germany

Germany offers a range of nursing courses to prepare individuals for a career in nursing. Here are some of the offered nursing courses in Germany for international students:

1. Nursing Degree Programs

Full-time undergraduate programs leading to a B.Sc. degree in Nursing provide comprehensive training in theory, skills, and clinical experiences. The average B.Sc. nursing salary in Germany ranges from EUR 30,000 to EUR 50,000 per year.

2. Nursing Vocational Training

This is a practical-oriented training program known as "Ausbildung" in German. It combines classroom instruction with hands-on clinical training. Upon completion, graduates receive a vocational qualification in nursing and can work as registered nurses. The duration of vocational training programs is generally three years.

3. Advanced Practice Nursing Programs

Specialized programs for registered nurses seeking advanced roles in nursing practice, focusing on areas like pediatric, geriatric, or intensive care nursing. Did you know? Annually, Germany staff nurse salary is estimated to be (on average) around EUR 3000 respectively.

4. Postgraduate Nursing Programs

Germany offers postgraduate courses for nurses to specialize in nursing management, education, or advanced clinical practice. These programs lead to an M.Sc. or postgraduate certificate/diploma for nurses with existing qualifications.

5. Continuing Education and Professional Development

Various continuing education programs and professional development courses are available for practicing nurses to upgrade their knowledge and skills, stay updated with the latest advancements in nursing, and fulfill ongoing professional development requirements. 

Quick Reads:

• Pharmacist Salary in Germany in 2026
• How to Get a Job in Germany from India

Nursing Courses Offered in Germany

Germany offers a range of nursing courses to prepare individuals for a career in nursing. Here are some of the offered nursing courses in Germany for international students:

1. Nursing Degree Programs

Full-time undergraduate programs leading to a B.Sc. degree in Nursing provide comprehensive training in theory, skills, and clinical experiences. The average B.Sc. nursing salary in Germany ranges from EUR 30,000 to EUR 50,000 per year.

2. Nursing Vocational Training

This is a practical-oriented training program known as "Ausbildung" in German. It combines classroom instruction with hands-on clinical training. Upon completion, graduates receive a vocational qualification in nursing and can work as registered nurses. The duration of vocational training programs is generally three years.

3. Advanced Practice Nursing Programs

Specialized programs for registered nurses seeking advanced roles in nursing practice, focusing on areas like pediatric, geriatric, or intensive care nursing. Did you know? Annually, Germany staff nurse salary is estimated to be (on average) around 3000 EUR respectively.

4. Postgraduate Nursing Programs

Germany offers postgraduate courses for nurses to specialize in nursing management, education, or advanced clinical practice. These programs lead to an M.Sc. or postgraduate certificate/diploma for nurses with existing qualifications.

5. Continuing Education and Professional Development

Various continuing education programs and professional development courses are available for practicing nurses to upgrade their knowledge and skills, stay updated with the latest advancements in nursing, and fulfill ongoing professional development requirements.

How to Get Recognised as a Nurse in Germany? 

To get recognised as a Nurse in Germany, you must get all your foreign qualifications officially assessed by a German authority. To earn a full RN salary in Germany, Indian nurses must go through the recognition process.

Step 1: Check Eligibility and Find Authority 

Head over to the official portal, that is, the Anerkennung Deutschland portal, to find the correct authority for your location and profession.

Step 2: Gather and Translate all the Necessary Documents 

Collect your diploma, transcripts, CV, medical fitness certificate, police clearance, and professional experience and translate them into the German language.

Step 3: Submit Application for Assessment 

Submit your application to an authority for an assessment of equivalence. 

Step 4: Address gaps in your application

If there is any gap in your application, your training isn't fully equivalent, you'll need to take a Knowledge Test (Kenntnisprüfung) or complete an adaptation course (Anpassungslehrgang). 

Step 5: Prove of Language Skills

To get recognised as a Nurse, you need to achieve at least B1/B2 level German proficiency. 

Step 6: Get a Final Approval

Once all the gaps have been filled and authority is completely assured, it issues a decision for your professional licence. 

Step 7: Apply for a Visa 

Apply for a skilled worker with an authority’s decision and exam or course registration. 

Step 8: Finally, you can start working

Finally, recieve your licence and work as a registered/certified nurse

Nurse Salary in Germany: Applicable Tax Rates for Nurses

Tax rates in Germany for nurses vary depending on their tax class (Lohnsteuerklasse). Each individual has their own tax rate, making it challenging to provide an exact amount for tax payments.

The tax system in Germany is complex, and individuals without children generally have the highest tax rates. There are six tax categories (classes) in Germany.

Make the Most Out of Nurse Salary in Germany with GetGIS Assistance

Germany offers competitive nursing salaries, which rise with experience, supplemented by bonuses like night shift and holiday premiums. Nursing is a stable and sought-after profession, providing job security and growth opportunities across diverse industries.

GetGIS, a leading immigration consultancy, offers secure economic immigration services, including for nurses. The Germany Opportunity Card facilitates a safe exploration of job opportunities and working conditions in Germany before securing employment.

Calculate your eligibility to Germany, Book Your Free Consultation to start off!

Articles You Might Be Interested in 

• Germany Ausbildung in Tech Fields: Check Top IT Roles & Salary 
• How to Settle in Germany from India? 
• Ausbildung in Germany vs Vocational Courses in India: Which Offers Higher ROI?
• Top 10 Ausbildung Trades Worth Considering in 2026
• Germany Healthcare Accelerated Programs for Nurses
• Guide to the Ultimate Benefits of Working in Germany