How can I, as a foreigner, apply for a residence permit in Germany?
November 17, 2022 | 45,00 EUR | answered by Friedhelm Wagner
Dear lawyer,
My name is Sebastian Busch and I am a foreigner from Colombia. I have been living in Germany for three years now and have only had a temporary residence permit so far. I have a permanent contract with a German company and feel very comfortable here. However, I am worried because my residence permit is about to expire and I do not know how to apply for a permanent residence permit.
I have heard that there are different ways to obtain a residence permit in Germany, such as through family ties, employment, or study. Since I am already working full-time, I believe that a residence permit based on my employment would be the best option for me. But I am unsure of the requirements I need to meet and the documents I need to submit to make the application.
Could you please explain to me what steps I need to take to obtain a permanent residence permit in Germany? What documents do I need to submit and how long does the application process usually take? Are there any specific deadlines I need to be aware of? I want to make sure I follow all the necessary steps correctly in order to extend my residence permit.
Thank you in advance for your help and support.
Sincerely,
Sebastian Busch
Dear Mr. Busch,
Thank you for your inquiry regarding your residence permit in Germany. It is understandable that you are concerned as your temporary residence permit is soon expiring and you are looking for a permanent solution. I would like to assist you in this matter and outline the various options available to obtain a permanent residence permit in Germany.
First of all, it is important to know that there are different types of residence permits in Germany, depending on the individual's situation. In your case, since you already have a steady job, the "Settlement Permit" may be suitable for you. This permit allows you to live and work in Germany permanently.
To obtain a Settlement Permit, you generally need to meet the following requirements:
- You must have held a residence permit for at least 5 years.
- You must have sufficient knowledge of the German language (at least B1 level).
- You must have adequate financial resources to support yourself in Germany.
- You must not have any criminal convictions.
To apply for a Settlement Permit, you will need to contact the competent Foreigners' Office or Immigration Office. There, you will need to submit an application and provide various documents, such as your valid passport, residence permit, employment contract, proof of your German language skills, and financial situation.
The application process can vary in duration depending on the Foreigners' Office and individual circumstances. However, it typically takes several months before a decision is made on your application. Therefore, it is important to submit your application in a timely manner before your current residence permit expires.
It is also advisable to inquire about the specific requirements and deadlines at your local Foreigners' Office to ensure that you complete all necessary steps correctly.
I hope this information is helpful to you and wish you success in applying for your Settlement Permit. If you have any further questions or need assistance, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Best regards,
Friedhelm Wagner, Attorney at Law
