The residence permit for skilled employment for professionals with vocational training is a temporary residence permit. You can apply to extend your residence permit for skilled employment if your employment is to continue beyond the validity period of your residence permit.
Apply for an extension of your residence permit no later than eight weeks before it expires at the Foreigners’ Registration Office responsible for your place of residence.
The same requirements apply to the extension of a residence permit for skilled employment for professionals with vocational 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 work that is professionally related to your qualifications.
If you were required to participate in an integration course when your residence permit was first issued, this will be taken into account when renewing your residence permit. If you have not yet participated in an integration course, the Foreigners’ Registration Office may reject your application to renew your residence permit. If you have not yet completed the integration course, your residence permit will generally be extended for only one year at a time until you successfully complete the course or provide proof that you have otherwise integrated into social and community life.
In the event of an extension, your residence permit will again be issued for a limited period. The residence permit for skilled workers with vocational training to engage in qualified employment is extended for the duration of the employment contract.
As a rule, the residence permit cannot be extended if this possibility was already ruled out at the time the permit was issued or during the most recent extension.
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 to see if 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’ 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 18a of the Residence Act (AufenthG)
Section 39 Residence Act
The immigration office responsible for the applicant's place of residence
