Apply for an extension of the residence permit for the purpose of employment, regardless of the qualification as a skilled worker

• § 8 Abs. 1 i.V.m. § 19c Abs. 1 AufenthG
• in conjunction with the Employment Ordinance

• Passport or passport substitute
• Residence permit
• Proof of subsistence:
  - Copy or original of the employment contract (to be submitted only in case of amendments)
  - Proof of income of the last 3 months
  - in case of change of employer: concrete job offer (please use the nationwide uniform form Declaration of employment relationship) or employment contract
• Current biometric photo
• Current registration certificate
• Lease
• Proof of your health insurance
• In case of obligation to participate in the integration course: certificate of successful participation in the integration course or other proof of integration efforts

• You have a recognised and valid passport or passport substitute as well as a valid residence permit for the purpose of employment, regardless of your qualification as a specialist in accordance with Section 19c (1) of the Residence Act in conjunction with the Employment Ordinance.
• The validity period of your residence permit will expire in the near future.
• There is no interest in expulsion against you.
• Your stay does not endanger or impair the interests of the Federal Republic of Germany.
• You can secure your livelihood and health insurance coverage from your income without using public benefits.
• You have a specific job offer or an employment contract with the same or another employer.
• The Federal Employment Agency has agreed to take up work (consent is usually obtained from the Foreigners' Registration Office if this is required).

The extension of your residence permit must be applied for at the immigration authority responsible for your place of residence.

• Depending on the immigration authority and concerns, it may be possible to apply via the Internet. Find out whether your immigration authority offers the electronic application for a residence permit.
• If the application is only possible in person, make an appointment with the Foreigners' Registration Office.
• During the appointment, your application will be received and your supporting documents will be checked (please bring them with you to the appointment). Your fingerprints will be taken for the issuance of the electronic residence title (eAT card).
• In the event of an electronic application, the Foreigners' Registration Office will contact you upon receipt of your online application in order to arrange an appointment for an interview at the Foreigners' Registration Office. During the appointment, your proof 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 granted, 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' Registration Office.
• Fees apply for the extension of the residence permit. The timing and form of payment vary depending on the authority.

about six to eight weeks

• Extension of the residence permit: at the latest eight weeks before the expiry of your valid residence permit

• An action may be brought before the competent administrative court against a negative decision of the immigration authority.

• A preliminary procedure (opposition) does not take place in Lower Saxony.

Detailed information can be found in the rejection decision.

• Forms: Declaration of employment relationship (uniform throughout Germany); further authority-specific forms can be obtained from your Foreigners' Registration Office, which may also be offered online.
• Online procedures possible in some cases
• Written form required: yes
• Personal attendance required: yes

The foreigners' authority responsible for the applicant's place of residence