The settlement permit is a permanent residence permit and entitles the holder to pursue gainful employment (salaried employment and self-employment). If you were initially granted a temporary residence permit, it is usually possible to obtain a permanent settlement permit after certain periods of time have elapsed. The settlement permit is a residence permit that legally consolidates your residence status.
Note:
Holders of a (temporary) residence permit for the purpose of studying or (vocational) training cannot obtain a settlement permit.
Permanent residence permits and residence authorizations still issued under the Aliens Act continue to be valid as settlement permits in accordance with the purpose of residence and the circumstances on which their issuance was based.
The requirements for a settlement permit are:
- Your identity has been verified and you meet the passport requirement
- Your livelihood is secure without recourse to public funds
- There are no grounds for expulsion against you
- You have no previous convictions
- Your stay does not jeopardize or impair the interests of the Federal Republic of Germany
- You have had a residence permit for five years
- You have paid contributions to the statutory pension insurance scheme or another pension scheme with comparable benefits for five years
- You are permitted to engage in gainful employment and have all the necessary permits to do so
- You have sufficient knowledge of German and a basic understanding of the German legal and social system
- You have sufficient living space for yourself and your family
Please also note further information on the subject of "settlement permits" in the following services:
- Introduction of the electronic residence permit (eAT)
- Settlement permit for highly qualified persons
There are many grounds for granting a settlement permit. In certain cases, simplifications or exceptions may apply to the above requirements. Please contact the immigration office for more information.
Processing may take several weeks.
