What is a settlement permit?
The settlement permit is a Permanent residence permitwhich allows third-country nationals to live and work permanently in Germany and benefit from social rights. It differs from the residence permit in that it:
-has no expiration date.
-Is not tied to specific conditions such as an employment relationship.
-Offers more security and flexibility.
The settlement permit also enables:
Free choice of occupation (self-employed and employed activities).
-Easier access to German citizenship.
-Family reunification under simplified conditions.
Requirements for the settlement permit
The exact requirements depend on the individual situation of the applicant. In principle, the following conditions must be met:
1st stay in Germany
-The applicant must at least 5 years have lived legally in Germany.
-The deadline may be shorter for certain groups (e.g. holders of the EU Blue Card or graduates of German universities).
2. secure livelihood
-Proof that you can support yourself without claiming social benefits such as unemployment benefit II (Hartz IV). This includes:
Sufficient income from work or self-employment.
-If applicable, proof of pension entitlements or savings.
3. pension insurance
-Proof of at least 60 months of compulsory contributions to the statutory pension insurance or equivalent private pension provision.
4. living space
-Proof of sufficiently large living space (e.g. rental agreement).
5. language skills
-German language skills B1 level according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).
6. integration course
-Successful completion of an integration course (if mandatory) or proof of sufficient knowledge of the social, legal and political system in Germany.
7. no criminal offenses
-The applicant must not have committed any serious criminal offenses.
Special groups with easier access
1.Holders of the EU Blue Card
-Can the settlement permit already be issued after 33 months received.
-With German language skills at B1 level, the deadline is reduced to 21 months.
2.Graduates of German universities
-Can obtain the settlement permit after only 2 years if they pursue a qualified activity.
3.Self-employed
Self-employed persons can apply for a settlement permit at an early stage if they are economically successful and have a secure livelihood.
4.Persons entitled to asylum and refugees
-Special regulations apply to persons with recognized refugee or asylum status.
Advantages of the settlement permit
1.Permanent residence
-No application for extension necessary, in contrast to temporary residence permits.
2.Freedom to work
Free choice between employed work and self-employment.
3.Family reunification
-Family members can join you under simplified conditions.
4.Access to citizenship
-The settlement permit is a step towards naturalization.
5.Social security
-Full integration into the German social security system, including health and pension insurance.
Application procedure for the settlement permit
1.Consulting
-Clarify in advance whether all requirements are met. Applicants can contact the local foreigners authority for this.
2.Application to the immigration office
-The application is submitted to the responsible immigration office at your place of residence.
3. required documents
-Valid passport
-Proof of residence permit and duration of stay
-proof of income (e.g. payslips, tax assessment notices)
-Proof of pension insurance contributions
-Rental contract and registration certificate
-Language certificate (B1)
-Proof of completion of an integration course (if required)
4.Processing time
-The processing usually takes 4 to 8 weeksbut may vary depending on the authority.
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