Equivalency of the Dentistry degree
A Brief Guide for Dentists from Non-EU Countries
This guide outlines the main steps for the recognition of dental degrees in Austria for dentists who graduated outside the European Union.
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Requirements for Application
Applicants must submit the following documents:
• High school certificate
• Dental degree diploma
• Academic transcript
• University curriculum / study plan
• Confirmation from the Vienna Dental Chamber
• Application fee of 150 €
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Language Requirements
A German language certificate is not required for the initial application.
However, German proficiency is necessary for studying at university and practicing dentistry.
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Duration of the Recognition Process
The average duration is approximately:
2 to 2.5 years
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Working Before Recognition
Austria does not provide a temporary dental license.
However, with an official decision (Bescheid) from the health authority, it may be possible to work as a dental assistant.
To work as a licensed dentist, you must:
• complete the recognition process
• register with the Austrian Dental Chamber.
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Salary Expectations
In a public dental clinic (Zahnambulatorium):
• Gross salary: approx. 5300 €
• Net salary: approx. 3000–3100 €
Deductions include:
• income tax
• health insurance
• pension insurance
• unemployment insurance
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Health Insurance System
Public health insurance covers certain basic dental treatments.
However, procedures such as:
• fixed prosthetics
• dental implants
are generally private treatments.
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Recognition Across Austria
The recognition procedure is uniform across all Austrian federal states.
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Initial Examination
The first step is the Stichprobentest.
This exam includes 11 dental subjects.
Passed subjects are recognized, while remaining subjects must be completed at an Austrian university.
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Fees
Stichprobentest exam fee: 150 €
University semester fee: approximately 380 €
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Specialization
Dentists may pursue postgraduate master’s programs, for example at:
• University of Vienna
• Danube University Krems
Costs may reach 30,000 €.
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Career Options After Recognition
1.Locum dentist (Vertretung)
Usually paid a fixed amount or about 30% of generated revenue.
2.Employed dentist in a public dental clinic.
3.Private dentist
working as a Wahlarzt or opening a private practice.