If you are from a country outside the European Union (EU), have been studying in another EU member state for at least two years, and are recognized there as a person entitled to protection, you may be eligible for a residence permit to continue your studies in Germany.
This residence permit is a temporary residence permit. If the residence permit is about to expire, you can have it extended, for example, for
- the duration of a mandatory phase of your studies or
- an exchange program that has not yet ended.
The same requirements apply to the extension of a residence permit for the purpose of studying as to its initial issuance. You generally cannot extend your residence permit if the Foreigners’ Registration Office has already ruled this out at the time of issuance or the most recent extension.
With the residence permit you received for the purpose of studying, you are allowed to work up to 140 days per year. You may also engage in part-time student work without restriction.
The residence permit to continue studies begun in another EU country is a temporary residence permit. The residence permit is extended for the duration of the mandatory study period or exchange program taking place in Germany.
The same requirements apply to the extension of your residence permit as to its initial issuance. In particular, your livelihood must be secured for the duration of your studies in Germany.
As a rule, the residence permit cannot be extended if this was already ruled out at the time of issuance or the most recent extension of the residence permit.
You must apply to renew your residence permit at the immigration office responsible for your place of residence.
- Depending on the immigration office and the nature of your request, it may be possible to apply online. Check whether your immigration office offers the option to apply for a residence permit electronically.
- If applications can only be submitted in person, schedule an appointment with the Foreigners’ Registration Office.
- During the appointment, your application will be accepted and your supporting documents will be reviewed (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 Foreigners’ Registration Office will contact you after receiving your online application to schedule an in-person appointment at the office. During the appointment, your supporting documents will be reviewed (please bring them with you) 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 Foreigners’ Office.
- Fees apply for the renewal of the residence permit. The timing and method of payment vary depending on the office.
For more information on how to file an appeal, please refer to the notice.
The immigration office responsible for the applicant's place of residence
