Obtaining permanent residency in Germany involves several complexities. Permanent residency, or 'Niederlassungserlaubnis' as it is called in German, is a specific type of long-term residence permit. Unlike many others, such as the EU Blue Card, it does not have an expiration date.
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Once granted permanent residency, an individual never has to renew it. The only requirement is to periodically replace the permanent residency identity card ('elektronischer Aufenthaltstitel').
Obtaining permanent residency in Germany: Features and benefits
The primary advantage of permanent residency is its unlimited duration.
The absence of the need to apply for renewal every few years saves a significant amount of time and money. Moreover, it provides security and peace of mind, knowing that one's future in Germany is secure.
Additionally, permanent residency is not tied to a specific purpose. With permanent residency, individuals can work independently and find employment without restrictions.
The main requirements for successfully obtaining permanent residency are outlined in § 9 (2) of the Residence Act in Germany ('Aufenthaltsgesetz').
To qualify for permanent residency, individuals must demonstrate that they have had a legal residence in Germany for a certain period.
The general minimum period is five years, but in many cases, it can be reduced. For instance, skilled immigrants ('Fachkräfte') need only have four years of residence (and with the new legislation taking effect in March 2024, this duration will be reduced to three years).
Holders of the EU Blue Card:
- Can apply after just two years and nine months of residence if their German language skills are at the A1 level.
- If their proficiency in the German language is at the B1 level, they can apply for permanent residency after only one year and nine months.
Finally, an application for a residence permit can only be submitted if there are no criminal convictions on the record. Minor offenses, such as parking violations, are exempt from this rule.
Usually, the line is drawn at conditional imprisonment sentences of no more than three months or fines of 90 daily rates and less. There are also special rules. This means that obtaining a residence permit can be done sooner or under simplified conditions.
In any case, for clarification on the specifics, it is advisable to consult with a lawyer.
