Apply for a residence permit to look for a job after completing a research activity
As a researcher, you have a legal right to be granted a residence permit to look for a job. The residence permit will be issued to you for a maximum of 9 months directly following your previous research activities. This makes it possible to find a job that suits your qualifications. The aim of the search can also be self-employment. This residence permit allows you to work without restriction.
Process flow
You can only apply for a residence permit in person at the immigration office responsible for your place of residence.
- You submit the required documents in the original and pay the application fee.
- The Foreigners' Registration Office checks whether the conditions for granting are met.
- If all requirements are met, the Foreigners' Registration Office will take your biometric data (photo, fingerprints) and order the electronic residence permit (eAT) from Bundesdruckerei GmbH.
- As soon as the eAT is completed, it will be handed over to you by the Foreigners' Registration Office.
Competent authority
- The local immigration authority responsible for your place of residence.
Requirements
You have carried out a research activity in Germany, completed it and had a valid residence permit for the purpose of research (§ 18d or § 18e AufenthG). Other general requirements for obtaining a residence permit are:
- a secure livelihood,
- a clarified identity,
- Possession of a valid national passport.
Which documents are required?
- Valid national passport
- Proof of secure livelihood (e.g. employment contract and pay slips, bank statements, submission of a declaration of commitment by third parties)
- Proof of health insurance
- Proof of qualification (degree certificate, transcript or attestation from your university on the successful completion of a course of study)
- 1 recent biometric photo
- Please inquire at the Foreigners' Registration Office responsible for you whether you need to submit further documents
What are the fees?
Fixed costs: Fee EUR 98.00
Fee: 98,00 EURPayment in advance: No
What deadlines do I have to pay attention to?
Application before the expiry of the current residence permit. An interview 4 to 6 weeks before the previous residence permit expires is recommended.
Application Deadline: 4 WeeksAn interview 4 to 6 weeks before the previous residence permit expires is recommended.
Processing duration
- The processing time may vary in the locally responsible immigration authorities (about 5 to 6 weeks).
Processing Time: 5 WeeksDepending on the local immigration office (about 5 to 6 weeks).
Applications / forms
- Forms: none
- Online procedure possible: no
- Written form required: no
- Personal appearance required: yes
Appeal
Detailed information on this can be found in the decision rejecting your application.
Technically approved by
Lower Saxony Ministry of the Interior and Sport
Author
The text was automatically translated based on the German content.
