If you have resided or worked in Germany through a temporary residence visa, you also have the opportunity to apply for a permanent one. This article provides information on the process, eligibility criteria, and steps involved in obtaining permanent residency in Germany.
What is a permanent residence permit?
A permanent residence permit, also known as permanent residency or permanent resident status, is an immigration status that allows an individual to reside indefinitely within a specific country, typically without the need for continuously renewing visas or other temporary permits.
Having a permanent residence in Germany grants individuals certain rights and privileges within the host country, such as the ability to work, study, access healthcare, and enjoy social benefits on a similar basis as citizens. However, permanent residents may not have the right to vote in national elections or hold certain government positions reserved for citizens.
A permanent resident card in Germany, also known as a permanent resident card or permanent visa Germany, grants non-German citizens the right to live and work indefinitely in the country. It's typically obtained after a period of legal residence, often with specific conditions such as employment or family ties. Holders enjoy many of the same rights and benefits as German citizens, including access to healthcare and education. Obtaining this status involves meeting various criteria set by German immigration authorities.
Eligibility criteria to apply for the PR process in Germany
Before initiating the application process for PR of Germany, applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria, as outlined below:
- Possess a valid passport, regardless of the issuing country.
- Demonstrate at least B1-level proficiency in the German language.
- Maintain German health insurance coverage.
- Possess a clean criminal record with no registered offences in their name.
- Maintain good health status, enabling them to work or study in the country.
- Earn a sufficient income to support both their own stay and that of their family.
- Provide substantial evidence confirming their marriage in the case of a partner visa application.
- Present proof of admission to a German university, if applicable.
- Successfully pass the 'Life in Germany' test to qualify for the PR application process.
How to get PR in Germany from India?
Here is a detailed guide on obtaining permanent residency in Germany. Follow these steps in order for a smooth and seamless process:
Step 1: When applying for German immigration, register your German address early to meet the officials' requirement for permanent residency. Failure to do so may result in fines or request rejection. Attach the obtained document to your application form.
Step 2: Another prerequisite is the necessity for applicants to possess health insurance in Germany. Ensure to apply for it, as foreign policies are seldom accepted in the application process. Open a German bank account to demonstrate financial capability, transferring all the funds, and provide the bank statement as supporting evidence with your application.
Step 3: Subsequently, obtaining the permanent residence form in Germany requires scheduling an appointment at the local immigration office. Ensure an early appointment to avoid delays, as offices can be crowded, and exceeding 90 days may pose complications.
Step 4: Following your interview, officials will guide you to the payment counter. Submit the application fee for processing, which can be paid in cash, through a bank, or using an EC card. Upon completion, return home and await approval from the authorities.
What are the different types of permanent residency in Germany?
Following are the various types of permanent residency in Germany available:
EU Blue Card to permanent residency:
- Holders of the EU Blue Card can apply for permanent residency in Germany after 21 to 33 months of employment, depending on language proficiency.
- This route is ideal for highly skilled professionals working in fields that require specialized expertise.
Settlement permit (Niederlassungserlaubnis):
- The settlement permit is the most common type of PR in Germany, allowing individuals to live and work indefinitely.
- Eligible candidates include those who have lived in Germany for at least five years, are financially stable, and possess sufficient German language skills.
Permanent residency for students:
- Foreign students who have completed their higher education in Germany can apply for PR after two years of employment in their field of study.
- This path is designed to retain talent and contribute to the German economy.
Permanent residency for family members:
- Family members of German citizens or permanent residents can apply for PR after living in Germany for three years.
- The process requires proof of a stable family relationship, sufficient income, and basic German language skills.
Permanent residency for self-employed individuals:
- Entrepreneurs and self-employed individuals can apply for permanent residency after three years if their business is successful and sustainable.
- This route encourages foreign investment and innovation in Germany.
