Applying for a residence permit to take an examination for the recognition of a foreign professional qualification

You can obtain a residence permit for taking an examination required for recognition if you meet certain conditions

If your foreign professional qualification cannot yet be recognised in Germany and only requires taking an examination for recognition, then you can obtain a residence permit solely for taking the examination.

The concept of examination covers examinations which are necessary to establish the equivalence of the foreign professional qualification with a domestic professional qualification and, in a profession regulated in Germany, for the granting of the right to practise the profession or for the granting of the authorisation to use a professional title. This includes linguistic and technical language examinations. Passing several examinations is also possible.

If you are to attend an exam preparation course before taking the exam, you can obtain a residence permit for the implementation of a qualification measure for the recognition of foreign professional qualifications.

You must prove your language skills to the Foreigners' Registration Office if proof of language skills is not the subject of your examination.

The residence permit for taking an examination for the recognition of a foreign professional qualification does notentitle the holder to pursue gainful employment.

The residence permit for taking an examination for the recognition of a foreign professional qualification is a temporary residence permit. It is granted for the duration of the examination procedure. This covers the period from taking the examination to the announcement of the examination result or until the competent authority issues a decision concluding the procedure.

The foreigners' authority responsible for the applicant's place of residence

• Valid passport
• Current biometric photo
• Visa, if required
• Proof of subsistence (e.g. scholarship, blocked account, declaration of commitment)
• Lease
• Proof of your health insurance
• Deficit decision of the recognition authority
• If applicable, proof of language skills (certificate)

• Forms: Forms can be obtained from your immigration office, if necessary they are also offered online
• Online procedures possible in some cases
• Written form required: yes
• Personal appearance required: yes

• You have a recognized and valid passport or passport substitute and, if required for entry - an appropriate visa.
• There is no interest in expulsion against you.
• Your foreign professional qualification cannot yet be fully recognised in Germany.
• For the recognition of foreign professional qualifications, an examination must still be taken.
• You have German language skills that correspond to the exam to be taken, but usually at least speaking skills at level A2.
• Your stay does not endanger or impair the interests of the Federal Republic of Germany.
• You can secure your livelihood and health insurance coverage without using public benefits.

The residence permit must be applied for at the immigration authority responsible for your place of residence. The procedure is as follows:

• Depending on the immigration authority and concerns, it may be possible to apply via the Internet. Find out whether your immigration authority offers the electronic application for a residence permit.
• If the application is only possible in person, make an appointment with the Foreigners' Registration Office. During the appointment, your application will be received and your supporting documents will be checked (bring them with you to the appointment). Your fingerprints will be taken to produce an electronic residence permit (eATKarte).
• In the event of an electronic application, the Foreigners' Registration Office will contact you upon receipt of your online application in order to make an appointment at the Foreigners' Registration Office if necessary. During the appointment, your documents will be checked (bring them with you to the appointment) and your fingerprints will be taken for the production of the electronic residence title (eAT card).
• If your application is granted, the Foreigners' Registration Office will arrange for the eATKarte to be produced.
• After about six to eight weeks, you can pick up the eATKarte at the Foreigners' Registration Office.
• The eATKarte is always to be picked up personally.
• Fees apply for the issuance of the residence permit. The timing and form of payment vary depending on the authority.

• The residence permit should be applied for at least eight weeks before the expiry of your valid visa.
• Opposition period: 1 month

about six to eight weeks.

Issue of residence permit: EUR 100.00

Under certain conditions, a fee reduction or exemption may be considered.