Applying for an extension of the residence permit for mobile researchers

If you have a temporary residence permit for mobile researchers and would like to continue your work at the research institution after the expiry of the fixed-term period in Germany, you can extend your residence permit under certain conditions.

The residence permit for the purpose of research for mobile researchers is a temporary residence permit. You can apply for the extension of your residence permit if you want to continue your work at a research institution beyond the period of validity of your residence permit.

Apply for the extension of your residence permit at least eight weeks before the expiry of the time limit at the immigration authority responsible for your place of residence.

The same conditions apply to the extension of the residence permit for the purpose of research as to the grant. In particular, you should be able to submit a hosting agreement or a corresponding contract with a research institution.

In the event of an extension, your residence permit will be limited again. The residence permit for the purpose of research is extended for the duration of the research project. However, the stay in Germany may not last longer than one year in total.

As a rule, the residence permit cannot be extended if this was already excluded when the residence permit was issued or last extended.

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

• Passport or passport substitute
• Existing residence permit
• Current biometric photo
• Hosting agreement or a corresponding contract with a research institution to carry out the research project.
• Lease
• Proof of subsistence (incl. 3 proof of income from the last 3 months)
• Proof of your health insurance

• Forms can be obtained from your Foreigners' Registration Office, which may also be offered online.
• Written form required: yes
• Informal application possible: No
• Personal attendance required: yes

• You have a recognised and valid passport or passport substitute as well as a valid residence permit for the purpose of research for mobile researchers in accordance with § 18f Residence Act.
• There is no interest in expulsion against you.
• Your stay does not endanger or impair the interests of the Federal Republic of Germany.
• You can secure your livelihood and health insurance coverage from your income without using public benefits.
• You can submit a hosting agreement or a corresponding contract with a research institution to carry out the research project

The extension of your residence permit must be applied for at the immigration authority responsible for your place of residence.

• 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 (please bring them with you to the appointment). Your fingerprints will be taken for the issuance of the electronic residence permit (eAT).
• In the event of an electronic application, the Foreigners' Registration Office will contact you upon receipt of your online application in order to arrange an appointment for an interview at the Foreigners' Registration Office. During the appointment, your proof will be checked (please bring it with you to the appointment) and your fingerprints will be taken for the issuance of the eAT card.
• If your application is granted, the Foreigners' Registration Office will arrange for the eAT card to be produced.
• After about six to eight weeks, you can pick up the eAT card at the Foreigners' Registration Office.

Fees apply for the extension of the residence permit. The timing and form of payment varies depending on the authority

• Extension of the residence permit: at the latest 8 weeks before the expiry of your valid residence permit for mobile researchers
• Opposition period: 1 month

Duration: About 6 to 8 weeks.

Extension of the residence permit for the purpose of research for mobile researchers:

• for a further stay of up to three months: EUR 96
• for a further stay of more than three months: EUR 93

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