If you have successfully completed a school-based or on-the-job training program in Germany, you may be granted a residence permit to look for work.

This residence permit is granted to you for a limited period immediately following the completion of your previous training. An extension is possible if the maximum period of 12 months was not fully utilized when the permit was first issued. However, if you do not find a job during this time, an extension is not possible. You are then required to leave Germany.

This residence permit allows you to work without restriction.

You must already hold a residence permit for the purpose of seeking employment after successfully completing a school-based or on-the-job training program in Germany, and the permit must not have yet reached its maximum validity period of 12 months.

In addition, you must meet the general eligibility requirements for a residence permit. These include, in particular:

• a secure means of support,
• a verified identity,
• possession of a valid national passport.

You can only apply for a residence permit in person at the Foreigners' Registration Office responsible for your place of residence.

• You must submit the required documents in their original form and pay the application fee.
• The Foreigners’ Registration Office will review whether the requirements for issuance have been met.
• If all requirements are met, the Foreigners’ Registration Office will collect your biometric data (photo, fingerprints) and order the electronic residence permit (eAT) from Bundesdruckerei GmbH.
• As soon as the eAT is ready, the Foreigners’ Registration Office will issue it to you.

You can find further information on the German government's portal for skilled workers from abroad

https://www.make-it-in-germany.com/de/

Section 20(3)(3) and (4)(2) of the Act on the Residence, Employment, and Integration of Foreigners in the Federal Territory (Residence Act – AufenthG)

Section 8(1) AufenthG

• Appeal

Detailed information on how to file an appeal can be found in the notice rejecting your application.

• Administrative court action.

Submit your application before your current residence permit expires. It is recommended that you visit the office 4 to 6 weeks before your current residence permit expires. The residence permit, including any extension, is valid for a maximum of 12 months.

The processing time depends on the workload at the local immigration office.

• Valid national passport
• Proof of sufficient means of support (e.g., employment contract and pay stubs, bank statements, a letter of financial support from a third party)
• Proof of health insurance
• Proof of qualifications (diploma, transcript, or certificate from your training company or educational institution confirming the successful completion of an apprenticeship)
• 1 recent biometric photo
• Please check with the immigration office responsible for your case to see if you need to submit any additional documents.

• Fee: EUR 93.00 - EUR 96.00

• Online procedure available: no
• Written form required: no
• In-person appearance required: yes