The residence permit for skilled workers with academic training is a temporary residence permit. You can apply for an extension of your residence permit for skilled workers if your employment is to continue beyond the period of validity of your residence permit.
Apply for the extension of your residence permit at the latest eight weeks before the expiry of the time limit at the immigration office responsible for your place of residence.
The same requirements apply to the extension of a residence permit for skilled workers with academic training as to its initial issuance. In particular, you must be able to present a concrete job offer or an employment contract and be engaged in employment that is professionally related to your qualifications.
If you were required to attend an integration course when your residence permit was first issued, this will be taken into account when extending your residence permit. If you have not yet participated in an integration course, the immigration office may reject your application for renewal of your residence permit. If you have not yet completed the integration course, your residence permit will generally only be extended for one year at a time until you have successfully completed the course or provided evidence that you have integrated into social life in other ways.
In the event of an extension, your residence permit will again be limited in time. The residence permit for skilled workers with vocational training to pursue qualified employment will be extended for the duration of the employment contract.
As a rule, the residence permit cannot be extended if this was already excluded when the residence permit was issued or last extended.
You must apply to extend your residence permit at the immigration office responsible for your place of residence.
- Depending on the Foreigners’ Registration Office and the nature of your request, it may be possible to apply online. Check whether your Foreigners’ Registration Office offers the option to apply for a residence permit electronically.
- If you can only apply in person, schedule an appointment with the Foreigners’ Registration Office.
- During the appointment, your application will be accepted and your supporting documents will be reviewed (please bring these with you to the appointment). Your fingerprints will be taken for the issuance of the electronic residence permit (eAT).
- If you submit your application online, the Foreigners’ Registration Office will contact you after receiving your online application to schedule an in-person appointment at the office. During the appointment, your supporting documents will be reviewed (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 approved, 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 renewal of your residence permit. The timing and method of payment vary depending on the agency.
Section 8(1) in conjunction with Section 18b(1) of the Residence Act
§ 39 of the Residence Act
about six to eight weeks.
The immigration office with jurisdiction over the applicant's place of residence:
