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

As a researcher, you have a legal right to be granted a work permit to look for a job for a maximum of 9 months directly after your research activity.

As a researcher, 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 9 months directly after your research activity. 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 9 months, an extension is excluded and you are obliged to leave Germany. This residence permit allows gainful employment without restriction.
 

Locally competent immigration authority

- 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
- Proof of qualification (graduation certificate, certificate or certificate from your university attesting to the successful completion of a course of study
- 1 recent biometric photo
- Please ask the Foreigners' Registration Office responsible for you whether you need to submit further documents
 

- Online procedure possible: no
- Written form required: no
- Personal appearance required: yes
 

You already hold a residence permit for the purpose of looking for a job after a research activity that has not yet exhausted the maximum period of 9 months.
In addition, you meet the general requirements for obtaining a residence permit. These are in particular:
- a secure livelihood,
- a clear 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.
 

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
orders 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.

Depends on the amount of work at the locally responsible immigration authority.

Cost framework: Fee: EUR 93.00 – 96.00

Please submit an application for extension in good time (4 - 6 weeks) before the expiry of the residence permit.