If you have been living with a German spouse or same-sex partner, child, or parent for three years with a residence permit, have sufficient German language skills, and your family's livelihood is secure, you can apply for a permanent settlement permit.
 

The requirements for a settlement permit for family members of German citizens are:

• Written application to the competent immigration authority
• Valid passport or passport substitute and verified identity
• Possession of a residence permit for 3 years
• At least 3 years of cohabitation with a German citizen (spouse or same-sex partner, child, or parent)
• Sufficient knowledge of German (level B1 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages)
• Secure livelihood through own income
• Sufficient health insurance and sufficient living space
• No criminal record

Since September 1, 2011, you can obtain a settlement permit in the form of a check card with additional electronic functions. For more information, please visit:

Processing may take several weeks, as other authorities are also involved in the procedure.

• valid passport
• 1 current biometric passport photo
• Proof of income
• Proof of health insurance coverage
• Rental agreement or purchase agreement stating the living space
• Proof of other benefits received (e.g., child benefit, parental allowance, etc.)
• Proof of sufficient German language skills

Please note that further proof may be requested in individual cases.

• Fee: EUR 113.
  00 Please note that even if your application is rejected, you may still be charged half of the application fee.