can i travel to london with german residence permit

Travelling with a German residence permit

So, you’ve managed to secure your German residence permit but you need to travel abroad. You don’t want to risk losing your hard-earned permit, so let’s take a look at the rules surrounding travel while holding a German residence permit .

Why would I travel when I have a German residence permit?

When you’re holding a German residence permit, you’re not a German citizen yet. You don’t have access to all the freedoms that a German passport would grant you. Which is actually quite a lot, as it’s one of the most powerful passports in the world. That said, the process of becoming eligible to become a full German citizen can take anywhere from 5 to 8 years. That’s a long time to not see your family or take a vacation abroad.

Where can I travel with my German residence permit?

Holding a residence permit in Germany (or any other Schengen country, in fact) entitles you to free movement within the Schengen zone for the duration of your visa or permit. There are no border checks or restrictions within the Schengen zone , but you do need to be able to present both your passport and your residence permit to any border or police units you might encounter along the way.

A German residence permit or visa alone entitles you to only travel to other Schengen countries. Remember, though: the Schengen zone and the European Union aren't the same thing!

There are some EU-countries, such as Ireland, Romania & Bulgaria – that are members of the European Union, but aren't taking part in the Schengen agreement. If you want to visit them, you'll still need a visa based on the requirements surrounding your current passport .

This also works the other way around! There are countries that aren’t part of the EU, but are a part of the Schengen zone: Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland but are still part of the Schengen zone. So, you are free to travel to these countries without a visa, as long as you hold your German residence permit!

Travel outside the Schengen zone

If you have a residence permit that allows you to stay for more than 3 months, you’ve probably got one that allows you to work in Germany or to volunteer in Germany. These permits are generally valid as long as the employment contract they are depending on. As I mentioned before, you don’t have a German passport yet, so for now, your foreign travel ability outside of the Schengen zone still depends on the passport of the nationality you have right now. So, if someone with a German passport doesn’t need a visa to enter country A, but the passport from your country of origin does require you to get a visa first, you still need a visa.

My visa is close to the expiration date

Generally, your visa or permit needs to be valid for longer the duration of your travels. If your permit's due to expire within your travel period, you should wait until you have confirmation that your application has been accepted for processing before you travel. Schengen customs agents have access to this information, so they will be able to see that you have an application in process and will allow you to continue your travels.

How long can I travel with my German residence permit?

The exception to this is the Schengen zone and some other countries in the EU. As long as you stay within countries in the Schengen zone, you’re free to travel around as much as you like for up to 90 days within a 6 month period! If you’re leaving the Schengen zone and come back through a different Schengen country, you need to be able to prove your final destination is going to be Germany. Additionally, if you’re looking to apply for German citizenship, you need to live in Germany for at least 180 days of the year!

What if I’m away for too long?

If you’re away for too long, or you leave Germany for a reason that's ‘not of a temporary nature’, then your permit can expire or be revoked. Being away for too long, in this case, means leaving the country without re-entry within 6 months. There can be exceptions to this rule, as the length of time can be adjusted by the German immigration authorities.

So, if you’ve a good reason, such as taking care of your elderly parents, working as an aid worker, being sent abroad while working for a German company or studying at a German university and taking part of an exchange program for multiple semesters. If you’re a Blue card holder who came to Germany as a specialised worker you can leave Germany for a period of up to 12 months, as long as you consult with the German immigration office before your departure.

Additionally, your permit can be revoked if Germany determines that you’re leaving for reasons that aren't of a temporary nature . In other words, if the authorities determine Germany is no longer your primary country of residence, they might revoke your permit. Reasons for this could be moving your family to a different country, taking up long term employment in a different country or selling/leaving your German property. You could try to keep your permit by making regular trips back to Germany, but German judges have rules against people doing this in the past.

Please reach out to [email protected] if you have any suggestions or inquiries about the content on this page.

Related Articles

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How to move to Germany in 14 simple steps (2023-2024)

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What are you looking for?

I am a foreigner living in germany and am planning a trip abroad. do i need a valid passport and visa.

As a foreigner you are requested to hold a valid passport or document in lieu of a passport at any time. In general, the issuance and extension of foreign passports have to be applied for at the competent foreign missions in Germany, except for recognized asylum seekers, recognized refugees according to the Geneva Refugee Convention, stateless persons or those entitled to subsidiary protection. The mentioned groups are mostly issued a passport in lieu of a passport (Passersatzpapier) by the local Immigration Office (Ausländerbehörde) at the place of residence. There are three types of those documents:

- Travel document for refugees (“Blue Passport”)

- Travel document for stateless persons

- Travel document for foreigners

Holders of Blue Passports are in general allowed to travel to all the countries which have signed the Geneva Refugee Convention. Please note that for many of these countries, however, you may have to apply for a visa in advance. Information on visa provisions for non-German citizens wanting to travel to a third country can only be provided by the respective foreign mission of the country concerned. The addresses of the foreign missions in Germany are available here:

Foreign Missions in Germany

However, you are not allowed to travel to your country of origin - this would imply that you no longer need humanitarian protection; you risk losing your asylum in Germany if you travel to your home country.

Foreign nationals who are in possession of a valid German residence title (Aufenthaltstitel) may travel for a period of up to 90 days within 180 days to other Schengen-States, so do not need a visa. This applies as well to holders of a German Visa of the category “D”.

In both cases, general entry requirements of Article 6 Section 1 letters a, c and e of the Regulation ( EU ) 2016/399 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 9 March 2016 on a Union Code on the rules governing the movement of persons across borders (Schengen Borders Code) are fulfilled and the person is not listed by the relevant Member State as not permitted.

In case of doubt please get in touch with the competent mission of the country in Germany.

• Who are Member States of the Schengen Agreement?
• Vertretungen anderer Staaten: Länder A-Z
• Schengen Border Code
• Travelling abroad for refugees (Handbook Germany)
• Visa regulations
• Top of page

Travelling within the Schengen Area with a residence permit or visa

You want to travel within the Schengen Area. Find out which countries belong to the Schengen Area and with which document you are allowed to travel within it. Also find out how long you are allowed to travel within the Schengen Area with that document.

Schengen countries

Documents required to travel within the schengen area, the netherlands is part of the schengen area. the schengen area consists of different european countries. there are no border controls within the schengen area. the schengen area consists of the following countries:.

• Czech Republic
• Denmark (without the Faeroes and Greenland)
• France (without French Guyana, Guadeloupe, Martinique, Réunion)
• Liechtenstein
• Netherlands
• Norway (without Spitsbergen)
• Portugal (including the Azores and Madeira)
• Spain (including the Balearic and Canary Islands)
• Switzerland

Cyprus and Ireland are not Schengen countries.

Do you want to travel within the Schengen Area? Then you need specific documents. Find out with which document you are allowed to travel within the Schengen Area and how long you are allowed to travel with that document.

Passport or other travel document always required.

You always need a passport or other travel document for a journey abroad. This is also the case for a journey within the Schengen Area. Your passport or travel document must not have been issued more than 10 years ago. The passport or other travel document must also be valid for at least another 3 months after you leave the Schengen Area.

Travellers with the nationality of a Schengen country

Travellers with the nationality of a Schengen country are free to travel to all countries in the Schengen Area. They do not need any extra document besides their passport or other travel document.

Travellers with residence permits

What if you do not have the nationality of a Schengen country but do have a valid Dutch residence permit? Then you are allowed to be in the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Besides your passport or other travel document, take your residence permit with you when you travel.

Travelling in the Netherlands after your residence permit has expired

Is your residence permit expiring and you will not continue to live in the Netherlands? But do you wish to stay in the Netherlands for an additional maximum of 90 days after the end of your permit? Read about a short stay after end of residence permit .

Travellers with a provisional residence permit (mvv)

Do you not have a residence permit, but you do have a valid provisional residence permit (in Dutch: machtiging tot voorlopig verblijf or MVV)? Then you are allowed to enter and exit the Netherlands and other countries in the Schengen Area. The MVV is a sticker in your passport.

Other travellers

You do not have the nationality of a Schengen country. Nor do you have a valid residence permit or valid provisional residence permit (MVV). In that case you sometimes need a visa to travel in the Schengen Area. This can be a single-entry visa or a multiple-entry visa.

No visa needed

Do you not need a visa? Then you are allowed to be in the Schengen Area in the visa-free period for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. In this period you are allowed to enter and exit the Schengen Area several times. You do not need an extra document besides your passport or other travel document.

Do you want to be in another Schengen country for a short stay? Then you do not have to first leave the Schengen Area. Do contact the authorities of the country you want to visit.  

Single entry visa

You have a valid single-entry Schengen visa. You may enter the Schengen Area once with this visa. You may be in the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. When you arrive in the Schengen Area, you must show that the Netherlands is your destination.

Multiple entry visa

You have a valid multiple-entry Schengen visa. You may enter and exit the Schengen Area several times with this visa. You may be in the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. The first time you enter the Schengen Area you must show that the Netherlands is your destination.

• Travelling with a residence permit and return visa
• Apply for a Schengen visa

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• Passports, travel and living abroad
• Travel abroad

Travelling to the EU and Schengen area

You do not need a visa for short trips to the EU or countries in the Schengen area if both of the following apply:

• you’re staying for 90 days or less in a 180-day period
• you’re visiting as a tourist or for certain other reasons

Other reasons include:

• studying a short course
• getting medical treatment
• travelling for business for your UK employer, for example to attend a business meeting or conference
• journalism or other media activities

Check the entry requirements of the country you’re visiting to find out what you can and cannot do during your stay.

These rules do not apply to travelling and working in Ireland .

Travelling to countries in the Schengen area for up to 90 days in a 180-day period

You can travel to more than one country in a 180-day period. How long you can stay in each country depends on whether or not it’s in the Schengen area.

The countries in the Schengen area are:

Austria, Belgium, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland.

Your total stay in the Schengen area must be no more than 90 days in every 180 days. It does not matter how many countries you visit. The 180-day period keeps ‘rolling’.

To work out if your stay is within the 90 day limit, use the following steps.

Check the date you plan to leave the Schengen area on your next trip.

Count back 180 days from that date to get the start of the 180-day period.

Add up the number of days you have already spent in the Schengen area in that 180-day period (you can use the dates stamped in your passport showing when you entered and left a country).

Work out how many days you will spend in the Schengen area on your next trip. Add this number to the number of days you worked out in step 3.

Check that the total number of days is not more than 90.

Travelling to EU countries that are not in the Schengen area

Bulgaria, Cyprus and Romania are not in the Schengen area. You can stay up to 90 days in a 180-day period in each of these countries without a visa.

Any time you spend in the Schengen area does not affect the number of days you can spend in these countries.

When you may need a visa

​​You may need a visa or permit if you want to either:

• stay for more than 90 days

If you’re travelling for work, check the rules for the country you’re visiting .

If you’re travelling for another reason or staying longer than 90 days, check the entry requirements for the country you’re visiting .

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Entry and residence

type: Article , Topic: Migration

Anyone who meets the entry requirements may enter Germany.

Source: BPOL

Anyone wishing to enter and reside in Germany legally must satisfy the requirements specified in European and national law. These include having a visa (if required), a legitimate reason for staying and adequate financial resources to pay for one’s stay.

A foreigner who is not a citizen of an EU or Schengen member state may not legally enter the territory of the Federal Republic of Germany without the required residence permit or passport (Section 14 of the Residence Act ); foreigners subject to an entry ban may not enter without an entry permit (Sections 11 and 14 of the Residence Act ).

Unlawful entry

A foreigner trying to enter the federal territory unlawfully will be refused entry at the border. Illegal entry and residence in the federal territory are punishable.

According to the Residence Act , overland, air and sea transport companies may transport foreigners to Germany only if these passengers have the necessary passports and visas. This is intended to prevent illegal entry and illegal employment. If foreigners are denied entry at the border, the transport company that brought them is required to take them back to where they came from.

Residence in Germany

EU law governs the requirements for stays of up to three months in Schengen member states, including Germany. Stays for the purpose of tourism, to visit friends or family, and on business are generally allowed. Stays of more than three months, however, are governed by national law. Stays of more than three months may be allowed only for certain purposes, such as to rejoin a spouse, to study at a university or to take up employment (in particular researchers and highly qualified workers).

In General foreigners who stay for such a certain purpose receive an electronic residence permit which meets EU requirements for standardized residence titles for third-country nationals. The relevant EU regulations (EC No 1030/2002 and 380/2008) require all EU member states to issue uniform residence titles with biometric features. The electronic residence permit contains a chip on which personal data, biometric features (digital photograph and two fingerprints) and any residence or employment restrictions are stored.

For third-country nationals who on 1 September 2011 had a valid residence permit in the form of a sticker, nothing changed with the introduction of the electronic residence permit; these permits remain valid until their original date of expiry. Electronic residence permits are issued to third-country nationals applying for renewals or new permits. Applications for all residence permits should be submitted to the foreigners authorities. Permit applicants should note that the electronic residence permits take longer to produce and issue.

Note: You must apply for a residence permit in person at your local foreigners authority four to six weeks before your current permit expires. For more information about the application procedure, please ask your foreigners authority.

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German Residence Permit: Everything you need to know

Table of Contents

Moving to Germany is a thrilling experience. If you are working or studying in Germany , you are most certainly looking for permanent residency and citizenship. However, you may only become a German permanent resident and obtain a Settlement Permit if you meet certain criteria. This post will explain how to get a German residence permit and simplify the procedures.

What exactly is a German Residence Permit?

If your main intention is to visit Germany for tourism purposes, you do not need a residency permit. A tourist visa permits you to remain in Germany for up to 90 days to see the nation and its numerous attractions. However, staying over the 90-day limit is not possible without a residency permit. It is only provided after you have lived and worked in Germany for a specific time – normally four years, but certain visa types allow you to apply for permanent residence sooner. It is a document issued to non-EU citizens who seek to live in Germany which permits the possessor to stay in Germany for a certain time. A residency permit extension is frequently possible.

Types of Residence Permits

A German residence permit can be obtained for a variety of reasons. Among the key goals are to study, work, and participate in other activities. There are many sorts of residence permits based on the reason for admission and length of stay.

• Temporary residence permit (Aufenthaltserlaubnis): This type of permit allows you to stay in Germany for a specific purpose, such as studying, working, or reuniting with family. Temporary residence permits are usually valid for a limited period of time and must be renewed before they expire.
• Permanent residence permit (Niederlassungserlaubnis): This type of permit allows you to live and work in Germany indefinitely. To be eligible for a permanent residence permit, you must have lived in Germany continuously for at least five years with a temporary residence permit.
• EU Blue Card : The EU Blue Card is a residence permit specifically designed for highly qualified non-EU citizens. It allows you to live and work in Germany and other EU countries for up to four years. To be eligible, you must have a university degree and a job offer in Germany with a salary that is at least 1.5 times the average wage in the region where you will be working.
• Settlement permit (Daueraufenthalt-EG): This type of permit is similar to the permanent residence permit, but it is specifically for non-EU citizens who have lived in Germany for at least five years and meet certain other requirements, such as being able to support themselves financially and having sufficient knowledge of the German language .
• Family reunification residence permit (Familiennachzug): This type of permit allows you to join a family member who is already living in Germany with a valid residence permit. To be eligible, you must be a spouse, child, or parent of a family member in Germany, and you must meet certain other requirements, such as being able to support yourself financially and having sufficient knowledge of the German language.

Advantages of Permanent Residence in Germany

You will have access to more advantages as a permanent resident in Germany than you had as a temporary resident. This includes the following:

• You are not required to renew your residency permit every few years.
• You will be able to change occupations or establish a business notwithstanding your credentials or degree.
• If you leave your employment, you will be eligible for German social security payments such as welfare.
• If you intend to study at a German institution, you can apply for financial help.
• After eight years of continuous residence in Germany, you can petition for German citizenship.

German Residence Permit Requirements:

To be given any of the residence permits, you will need to fulfill a few requirements, such as:

• Have a valid passport from another country,
• Not have a criminal record,
• Be proficient in German at least a B1 level,
• Have German health insurance ,
• Pass a health check which proves you are healthy enough to work and study,
• Be financially stable and support yourself and your family,
• If you plan on working in Germany, you will need a letter from your employer with the job offer and description,
• If you intend to study in Germany, you will need to show proof of admission to a university.
• You will require proof of marriage, such as a marriage certificate if you intend to join your spouse in Germany.

Documents needed for Residence Permit Application-

• The application form that has been completed & signed (Antrag auf Erteilung der Niederlassungserlaubnis).
• A current passport-size photograph. (35mm x 45mm on a white backdrop)
• If you have statutory health insurance, you must present a confirmation certificate from your provider.
• If you have private health insurance , bring the policy and documentation that you have paid your contributions.
• Proof of contributions to social security
• If you are employed, please provide bank statements.
• If you are a freelancer or self-employed, you must file tax returns.
• Proof of German language proficiency . (Recognized certificate with at least a B1 level)
• Salary statements for the previous six months.
• Employment certificate provided by your employer during the past 14 days.
• Certificate issued by a German pension insurance company.
• If you are a freelancer or self-employed person, please provide your entire audit report and most recent tax assessment. The audit must be done by a professional, such as a tax counselor, tax agent, or auditor.
• The notice of pension eligibility (if you are a retiree).
• The Certificate of Address Registration (Meldebestätigung).
• Your landlord’s lease or rental agreement.
• Evidence of a German university degree or vocational certificate (if applicable).
• Your Marriage License (if you are married to a German citizen).
• Your professional certification (if you are considered a highly skilled worker).

Note: Please keep in mind that the Ausländerbehörde may request extra documentation particular to your circumstance.

How to apply for a Residence Permit?

You must apply for permanent residency before your existing residence permit expires. The procedure for applying for a German Permanent Residence Permit is as follows:

• To schedule an appointment , go to your local Ausländerbehörde (German Immigration Office). This is the same location where you first obtained your residence permit.
• Pick up and fill out the application form (Antrag auf Erteilung der Niederlassungserlaubnis).
• Gather all of the documents specified below.
• Bring your papers and the application form to your appointment with the Ausländerbehörde . During the appointment, you will also be required to participate in an interview. If you are applying for a settlement permit as the spouse of a German national, your spouse must accompany you to the interview.
• Pay the application cost . During the appointment, you will be notified of the payment option, which is either cash, an EC Card, or a bank transfer.

Note: If you want more assistance with your application for German permanent residency, we recommend contacting the German embassy or consulate in your home country.

How long does it take?

It will take roughly two to three weeks for the Ausländerbehörde to make a decision once you submit your application and papers.

How much does it Cost?

The cost of your permanent residence permit is determined by the type of permit you have:

• The charge for skilled workers is €113.
• If you are a freelancer or self-employed person, the price is €124.
• The rate for a highly qualified expert is €147.
• If you are a Turkish citizen, the price is €28.80.

Can International Students get Permanent Residency in Germany?

No, if you hold a student visa, you cannot seek permanent residency in Germany. Your stay in Germany as an international student does not count towards your “residency time” for permanent residence.

You do, however, have an edge if you hold a degree from a German educational institution. After graduation, you can apply for a Job-Seeker Visa to hunt for employment, and if you acquire a qualified job offer (and obtain a skilled-worker residence permit in Germany), you can apply for permanent residency in only two years.

Skilled professionals with non-German degrees, on the other hand, will have to wait four years before applying for permanent residency.

It is important to note that a German residence permit does not automatically grant you the right to work in Germany. If you wish to work in Germany, you will need to apply for a separate work permit.

It is recommended that you contact the German embassy or consulate in your home country for more information.

Document Checklist for Germany Student Visa

9 steps to study in germany, unemployment benefits in germany.

Visit our   website   for more articles related to  studying in Germany . Follow us on   Instagram   and   Facebook   for more tips & information on studying in Germany.

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Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for a German Residence Permit

Updated: Jan 2

If you want to live and work in Germany for more than 90 days, you will need a residence permit. A residence permit is a document that allows you to stay in Germany for a specific purpose and period of time . There are different types of residence permits depending on your situation and goals. In this article, we will explain the general steps to apply for a German residence permit, the requirements and documents you need, and the fees you have to pay.

Step 1: Enter Germany with the right visa

The first step to get a German residence permit is to enter Germany with the right visa. Depending on your nationality, you may need a visa to enter Germany or not. You can check if you need a visa for Germany here .

If you need a visa, you have to apply for it at the German embassy or consulate in your home country before you travel to Germany. You cannot apply for a residence permit with a tourist or business visa. You have to apply for a visa that matches your purpose of stay in Germany, such as:

Student visa

Job seeker visa

Employment visa

Family reunion visa

Freelance visa

If you do not need a visa, you can enter Germany without one and apply for a residence permit from within the country. However, you still have to register your address and obtain health insurance and a bank account before you apply.

Step 2: Register your address

The second step to get a German residence permit is to register your address at the local registration office (Einwohnermeldeamt or Bürgeramt). This is a mandatory requirement for anyone who lives in Germany, regardless of their nationality or visa status . You have to register your address within 14 days of moving into your new home.

To register your address, you need to fill out a registration form (Anmeldeformular) and bring it along with the following documents:

Your passport or ID card

Your visa (if applicable)

Your rental contract or confirmation from your landlord (Wohnungsgeberbestätigung)

Your marriage certificate or birth certificates of your children (if applicable)

You can find below the appointment websites of some of the major cities in Germany.

Step 3: Obtain health insurance and open a bank account

The third step to get a German residence permit is to obtain health insurance and open a bank account. These are also necessary requirements for living and working in Germany.

Health insurance is mandatory for everyone in Germany. You have two options: statutory health insurance (gesetzliche Krankenversicherung) or private health insurance (private Krankenversicherung) . The type of health insurance you can get depends on your income, age, occupation, and health status. You can compare different health insurance providers and plans here .

A bank account is also essential for managing your finances in Germany. You will need a bank account to pay your rent, bills, taxes, and other expenses. You will also need a bank account to receive your salary or income if you work or freelance in Germany. You can open a bank account online or at a local branch of any bank in Germany. You will need the following documents:

Your registration certificate (Meldebescheinigung)

Your tax ID number (Steueridentifikationsnummer)

Your proof of income or employment contract (if applicable)

Step 4: Fill out an application form and collect all the required documents

The fourth step to get a German residence permit is to fill out an application form and collect all the required documents. The application form and the documents vary depending on the type of residence permit you are applying for.

Some of the common documents you will need are:

A biometric photo

A proof of livelihood (such as bank statements, payslips, scholarship letter, etc.)

A proof of purpose in Germany (such as admission letter, employment contract, marriage certificate, etc.)

A health insurance certificate

A fee payment receipt

You have to make sure that all your documents are valid, complete, and translated into German by a certified translator if they are in another language .

Step 5: Visit the local Foreigner’s Authority and submit your application

The fifth and final step to get a German residence permit is to visit the local Foreigner’s Authority (Ausländerbehörde) and submit your application. You have to make an appointment online or by phone before you go there.

At the Foreigner’s Authority, you will have to:

Present your passport or ID card

Submit your application form and all the required documents

Pay the application fee (usually between 50 and 150 euros, depending on the type of residence permit)

Give your fingerprints and signature

Receive a confirmation of your application

You will also have to answer some questions about your personal and professional background, your plans and goals in Germany, and your knowledge of German language and culture. You may also have to take a language test or an integration course if required by the type of residence permit you are applying for.

Step 6: Wait for the decision and pick up your residence permit card

After you submit your application, you will have to wait for the decision of the Foreigner’s Authority. The processing time can vary from a few weeks to several months, depending on the type of residence permit, the complexity of your case, and the workload of the Foreigner’s Authority . Unfortunately, there are no option to track your application status until the time of writing this article.

If your application is approved, you will receive a notification from the Foreigner’s Authority. You will then have to go back there and pick up your residence permit card. The German residence permit card is a plastic card with a chip that contains your personal data and biometric features. You have to carry it with you at all times when you are in Germany.

If your application is rejected, you will receive a letter from the Foreigner’s Authority explaining the reasons for the rejection and your options to appeal. You have to act quickly if you want to appeal, as you usually have only one month to do so .

Getting a German residence permit can be a long and complicated process, but it is worth it if you want to enjoy the benefits of living and working in one of the most developed and attractive countries in Europe. By following this step-by-step guide, you can prepare yourself well and increase your chances of success. We hope this article was helpful and informative for you. If you have any questions or need any assistance with your residence permit application, feel free to contact us. We are happy to help!

Some frequently asked questions about German residence permit

Who needs a german residence permit.

Anyone who wishes to live and work in Germany for more than 90 days, especially if they are from a non-European Union (EU) or non-European Economic Area (EEA) country, will typically require a German residence permit. The permit allows you to stay in Germany for a specific purpose and duration.

What is the registration of address, and why is it important?

What is the difference between statutory and private health insurance in germany, do i need to prove my knowledge of the german language to get a residence permit, can i work in germany with a residence permit for studying or family reunion, can i extend my german residence permit if needed.

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What are you looking for?

Long-stay national visas (d visas)/ residence permits for more than 90 days.

A national visa (D visa) can be used to obtain a residence permit for stays exceeding 90 days.

British citizens may apply to the local immigration office ( Ausländerbehörde ) for their residence permits after arrival in Germany and without having obtained a visa prior to travelling to Germany. Please note that you need to register your new residence ( Anmeldung ) with the authorities ( Meldebehörde ) within 2 weeks of having moved in and apply to the local immigration office ( Ausländerbehörde ) for your residence permit within the first 90 days of your stay in Germany. This privilege is also extended to citizens of Australia, Canada, Israel, Japan, New Zealand, Korea (Republic) and the United States of America.

Citizens of Andorra, Brazil, El Salvador, Honduras, Monaco and San Marino may apply for their residence permit after arrival in Germany, provided that they do not intend to take up employment. Otherwise a visa is needed.

Processing times for D visas vary greatly from about 2 weeks for some categories of employment visas to up to six months for self-employed professionals. Please ensure that you submit your application well in advance.

Joining Family

Visas in this category authorise you to travel to Germany and to apply to the local immigration office (Ausländerbehörde) for a residence permit for family purposes (Familiennachzug).

Academic Purposes

The following provides you with information on visa requirements for academic purposes: visiting academics and researchers, study including semesters abroad and language courses.

D-Visa: Residence permits for employment

A D-Visa for employment enables you to travel to Germany and apply for a residence permit with the local immigration office (Ausländerbehörde) or pursue an economic activity during the validity of the visa.

FAQ and other important information

Please read the information on our website carefully. We do appreciate that it might be easier for you to ask questions. However, we do not have sufficient staff capacity to respond to every query.

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Official issues

• Residence permit

Temporary residence permit in Germany

The temporary residence permit is the most common type of residence permit  issued to expats coming to live and work in Germany. There are many different types of permits; this page focuses on the eight most common ones and their requirements.

Which one you can apply for is determined by the purpose of your stay in Germany, and must match the information you provided on the application for your  visa  (if you submitted one). If you are unsure which best describes your situation check with your local citizens' office ( Bürgeramt ) .

1. Permit to study in Germany

This type of residence permit, usually valid for two years, is issued to those who come to Germany to study . It allows you to work up to 120 days (or 240 half days per year).

It is usually possible to continue extending your residency until you have completed your course. After you have completed your studies, you also have the option to extend for an additional 18 months while you seek employment related to your qualification.

To apply, you will need to prove that you have either been accepted by a state-recognised higher educational institution , or have enrolled in a full-time language course or preparatory company traineeship. You will also need to prove that you have the financial means to support yourself for the duration of your studies (for instance, by opening a blocked account ). 

A nine-month residence permit is also available for those applying for university in Germany. You are not permitted to take up employment if you hold this kind of residence permit.  

2. Permit for vocational training

Aimed at attracting skilled expats to work in Germany , this type of temporary permit enables you to take up vocational education or training. Usually, this requires the approval of the Federal Employment Agency ( Bundesagentur für Arbeit , BA) unless the training has been pre-approved. If you will be working towards a vocational qualification, you are also authorised to work (in any role) up to 10 hours a week. 

If you successfully complete the training, you can also extend your residency by up to one year to find a job connected to the qualification.

3. Permit for the purpose of taking up employment

If you have secured a job in Germany, you can be issued with a residence permit valid for up to three years, depending on the planned duration of the employment. Applicants for work visas used to face some of the strictest requirements. However, responding to Germany's severe shortage of skilled workers, the Immigration for Skilled Workers Act came into force in March 2020, removing some of the stricter barriers.

Under this new law, skilled workers from non-EU countries are allowed to come to Germany, as long as they possess professional qualifications that are recognised in Germany, a professional practice permit (for those seeking employment in a regulated profession) and a concrete job offer. For anyone more than 45 years old who is coming to Germany for the first time for employment purposes, the gross annual salary for the position they are intending to take must be at least 49.170 euros (in 2024). 

In principle, the approval of the BA must still be obtained as part of the visa procedure.   

Once the temporary residence permit has been granted, it can be regularly renewed for as long as your situation remains the same (i.e. you stay in the same job). To apply, you will need to provide an employment contract, a role description filled out by your employer and documentation of your professional qualifications.

4. Permit for qualified skilled workers seeking employment

As a skilled worker, you may be issued a six-month residence permit for the purpose of searching for employment in Germany befitting your qualifications. To be defined as a "skilled worker" you need to have graduated from a German higher education institute or foreign equivalent, or an accredited foreign university. You can check with the Central Office for Foreign Education Affairs to see if your foreign qualification is recognised in Germany.

Holders of this permit are not authorised to pursue an economic activity, meaning that if you find a job you will need to apply for a residence permit for employment (as above). The six-month expiry cannot be extended. If you do not find a job, you will have to leave Germany and remain abroad for at least as long as you stayed in Germany before applying for another visa.

To qualify, you will need proof of your academic qualifications and proof of finances to cover the duration of your stay in Germany (a blocked account is one way you can prove this).

5. EU Blue Card

As of May 2009, highly-skilled workers from outside the EU may be granted a residence permit known as the EU Blue Card. This is reserved for those coming to work in Germany who possess either a German or a foreign higher education qualification (or at least five years of professional work experience). Your occupation is classified as "highly skilled" if your earnings meet the minimum threshold. In 2024 this was 45.300 euros.

For those possessing skills in high demand (for instance, mathematics, IT, natural sciences, technology or medicine), the minimum earnings threshold is reduced to 41.042 euros (in 2024). The Federal Employment Agency decides whether your profession is considered “in demand”.

The EU Blue Card is valid for a maximum of four years, or the length of your employment contract plus three months. After 33 months, holders of an EU Blue Card may also be issued a permanent settlement permit , provided you have held your employment position, have basic German language skills, and made contributions to the statutory pension scheme for that period. This is reduced to 21 months if you can prove knowledge of the German language (level B1).

If your spouse wishes to join you, as an EU Blue Card holder, they do not require  German language certification  in order to be granted a residence permit.

6. Permit for research

As an academic researcher, you can receive a temporary residence permit for the purpose of research, as long as you have a "host" agreement with a research institute. This is valid for the length of the research project, up to a maximum of three years. You are entitled to take up research and teaching activities at the research establishment, and to work as a teacher or a  freelancer .

For your application, you will need an admission agreement or contract with the research establishment. You also need to demonstrate an adequate monthly income to cover your living expenses. How high your income needs to be depends on your individual circumstances. 

After your research activities have concluded, it is possible to extend your residency by up to nine months for the purpose of seeking employment connected to your qualification.

7. Permit for self-employment

A residence permit for self-employment, up to a maximum of three years, may be issued to entrepreneurs . In order to qualify, you need to establish that there is an economic interest or regional need for your planned business that it is expected to have a positive effect on the economy, and that you have the personal capital or an approved loan to realise your idea.

Usually, you will be expected to submit a business plan, financing plan and revenue forecast as part of your application. If you are above the age of 45, you also need to demonstrate adequate provision for old age, such as savings or a pension plan .  

If, after three years, your business venture is a success, you will have the option to apply for a permanent settlement permit, as long as your income ensures the subsistence of both yourself and any dependents.

8. Permit for family reunification

If you have family members who wish to join you in Germany, they will need to apply for a temporary residence permit for family reunification. The rules vary according to your nationality.

EU citizens’ family members

If your family member has European citizenship, they can join you in Germany to live, work or study without restrictions.

If your family member does not have EU or EEA citizenship, they must apply for a national visa to enter Germany and then apply for a family reunification residence permit. According to EU law, your family has the right to residence, even if they are not EU nationals.

Non-EU citizens’ family members

Dependents of nationals from outside the EU will be considered on a case-by-case basis, according to the following requirements:

• You must possess a residence permit in order for your spouse to join you.
• You need to demonstrate that sufficient living space is available and that your finances can provide for the entire family unit. This will be assessed by the German Mission and the Foreigners’ Office. If you are receiving welfare benefits , for instance, your application will likely be refused.
• Your spouse needs to be able to communicate in German at least on a basic level (exceptions are made for highly-qualified or self-employed workers, and for those who cannot reasonably be expected to learn German, due to physical / mental illness, disability or extreme personal circumstances).
• The residency may be extended as long as marital cohabitation continues.
• Children are entitled to join, provided they are under the age of 16 and unmarried. Otherwise, they need to apply for a different type of residence permit separately.
• If you are an EU Blue Card or permanent settlement permit holder, your spouse will not need to demonstrate German language skills in order to be eligible.
• Holders of a family reunification temporary residence permit are permitted to work without restriction.

The German residence permit application procedure

If you fulfil the requirements for a temporary residence permit, you may want to start the application procedure. It can take several weeks to process your application, so be sure to apply well in advance of the expiry date of your visa. Visit our residence permit application procedure page to get all the information you need on the application process: where to apply for your residence permit, the forms and documents required, and how much the application costs.

Permanent residence and German citizenship

If you are considering staying in Germany indefinitely and meet the requirements, you might consider applying for a permanent residence permit or German citizenship .

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