The residence permit for research purposes is a temporary residence permit. You can apply for an extension of your residence permit for research purposes if your work at a German research institution is to continue beyond the period of validity of your residence permit.
Apply for the extension of your residence permit at the latest eight weeks before the expiry of the time limit at the immigration office responsible for your place of residence.
The same requirements apply to the extension of a residence permit for research purposes as to its initial issuance. In particular, you should be able to present an admission agreement or a corresponding contract with a research institution.
If you were required to attend an integration course when your residence permit was first issued, this will be taken into account when extending your residence permit. If you have not yet participated in an integration course, the immigration office may reject your application for an extension of your residence permit. If you have not yet completed the integration course, your residence permit will generally only be extended for one year at a time until you have successfully completed the course or provided evidence that you have integrated into social life in other ways.
In the event of an extension, your residence permit will again be limited in time. The residence permit for the purpose of research will be extended for the duration of the research project.
As a rule, the residence permit cannot be extended if this was already excluded when the residence permit was issued or last extended.
You must apply for an extension of your residence permit at the immigration office responsible for your place of residence.
- Depending on the immigration office and your specific situation, it may be possible to apply online. Find out whether your immigration office offers electronic applications for residence permits.
- If the application can only be made in person, make an appointment with the immigration office.
- During the appointment, your application will be accepted and your supporting documents will be checked (please bring these with you to the appointment). Your fingerprints will be taken for the issuance of the electronic residence permit (eAT).
- If you apply electronically, the immigration office will contact you after receiving your online application to arrange an appointment for an interview at the immigration office. During the appointment, your supporting documents will be checked (please bring them with you to the appointment) and your fingerprints will be taken for the issuance of the eAT card.
- If your application is approved, the Foreigners' Registration Office will arrange for the eAT card to be produced.
- After about six to eight weeks, you can pick up your eAT card at the immigration office.
There are fees for extending your residence permit. The timing and form of payment vary depending on the authority.
The immigration office responsible for the applicant's place of residence
