What is ZAB (Zentralstelle für ausländisches Bildungswesen)?
Quick definition
The Central Office for Foreign Education — the German authority that evaluates and recognises foreign university degrees.
How it works
The ZAB (Zentralstelle für ausländisches Bildungswesen) evaluates foreign educational qualifications and determines their German equivalency. If your degree is not already listed as recognised in the anabin database, you'll need a ZAB statement (Zeugnisbewertung) to prove your qualification is equivalent to a German degree. The evaluation typically costs around €200 and takes 4–6 weeks. You'll need to submit your original degree documents, translations, and transcripts. The ZAB statement is required for most work visa applications, including the EU Blue Card.
Why it matters
Without degree recognition, you cannot apply for a skilled worker visa or EU Blue Card. Starting this process early is one of the most important things you can do to avoid relocation delays.
Country guides
Learn how this applies to specific nationalities.
