The immigration authority issues and extends the residence permit for certain residence purposes upon application. As a rule, you can only obtain a residence permit on application after entering the country with a national visa. In special cases (e.g. for particularly highly qualified top employees in research, science and teaching), a settlement permit may also be issued immediately.
The period of validity of the residence permit is limited.
- Education
- gainful employment
- international, humanitarian or political reasons
- family reasons
There are also special residence rights, such as the right to return and residence permits for former Germans.
Note:In exceptional cases, a residence permit can also be issued for a purpose of residence not provided for in the Residence Act.
You have the option of submitting your application for some residence titles directly online (opens in a new tab) or by post.
If you are a foreigner with the legal status of a long-term resident in one of the other member states of the European Union (EU) (national residence title of the other EU state with the designation "Daueraufenthalt-EU" in the respective official language), you can generally obtain a residence permit for Germany if you wish to stay in Germany for longer than 90 days.
A child born in Germany can be granted a residence permit if at least one parent with custody has a residence permit, a settlement permit or an EU permanent residence permit.
FAQ: Here you will find online (opens in a new tab) or by post.
If you are a foreigner with the legal status of a long-term resident in one of the other member states of the European Union (EU) (national residence title of the other EU state with the designation "Daueraufenthalt-EU" in the respective official language), you can generally obtain a residence permit for Germany if you wish to stay in Germany for longer than 90 days.
A child born in Germany can be granted a residence permit if at least one parent with custody has a residence permit, a settlement permit or an EU permanent residence permit.
FAQ: Here you will find answers to frequently asked questions (opens in a new tab) - from the processing of applications to help in emergencies.
Online service
Apply for your residence permit conveniently online.
Prerequisites
Forms
Deadlines
Making an appointment
More information
Aliens and citizenship law
Service hotline
You have questions? Call us: from any network, without an area code. Authorities number 115: Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. You can usually reach the authorities number 115 at fixed network tariffs and thus free of charge via flat rates. Sign language telephone: Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.