Applying for an extension of a residence permit to look for a job after studying

You have successfully completed your studies in Germany and have already received a residence permit to look for a job.

As a graduate of a German university, you have a legal right to receive a residence permit to look for a job.
The residence permit will be issued to you for a maximum of 18 months immediately after your studies. If this maximum period was not used when it was first issued, the residence permit may be extended accordingly. However, if you cannot find a job during these 18 months, an extension is excluded and you are obliged to leave Germany.
This residence permit allows gainful employment without restriction.

The foreigners' registration office of your place of residence that is locally responsible for you.

- Valid national passport,
- proof of secure livelihood (e.g. employment contract and pay slips, bank statements, submission of a declaration of commitment by third parties),
- proof of health insurance,
- Graduation certificate, certificate or certificate from your university attesting to the successful completion of your studies,
- 1 recent biometric photo,
- Please ask the Foreigners' Registration Office responsible for you whether you need to submit further documents.
 

- Forms: Application for a residence permit
- Online procedure possible: no
- Written form required: no
- Personal appearance required: yes

You are in possession of a residence permit for the purpose of looking for a job after successfully completing your studies in Germany. The maximum period of 18 months has not yet been exhausted.
In addition, you meet the general requirements for issuing a residence permit. These are in particular:
- a secure livelihood
- a clarified identity
- Possession of a valid national passport.

-Contradiction
Detailed information on how to lodge an objection can be found in the decision rejecting your application.
- Administrative court action

You can only apply for an extension of a residence permit in person at the immigration authority responsible for your place of residence.
- You submit the required documents in the original and pay the application fee.
- The Foreigners' Registration Office checks whether the conditions for grant are met.
- If all requirements are met, the Foreigners' Registration Office will record your biometric data (photo, fingerprints) and order the electronic residence title (eAT) from Bundesdruckerei GmbH.
- As soon as the eAT is completed, it will be handed over to you by the Foreigners' Registration Office.

Application before the expiry of the current residence permit. An interview 4 to 6 weeks before the previous residence permit expires is recommended.

About 5 to 6 weeks, depending on the workload at the local immigration office.
 

Costs: Fee: EUR 93.00 - 96.00