Applying for an extension of the residence permit for the spouse's reunification with foreigners

You can extend your residence permit for spouse reunification with foreigners if you meet certain requirements.

The residence permit for spouse reunification with foreigners is a temporary residence permit. You can apply for an extension of your residence permit if you wish to stay in Germany and your spouse or partner is in possession of a valid residence permit in Germany.

In principle, the same conditions apply to the extension of the residence permit as to the grant.

In the event of an extension, your residence permit will be limited again. The residence permit is extended for the period of validity of the spouse's or partner's residence permit.

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

If you were obliged to attend an integration course when you first issued your residence permit, this will be taken into account when your residence permit is extended. If you have not yet taken part in an integration course, the Foreigners' Registration Office may reject your application for an extension of your residence permit. If you have not yet completed the integration course, the residence permit will only be extended by one year until you successfully complete it or provide proof that your integration into social life has taken place elsewhere.

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

• Passport or passport substitute
• Current biometric photo
• Existing residence permit
• Proof of subsistence
• Proof of your health insurance
• Lease
• In case of obligation to participate in the integration course: certificate of successful participation in the integration course or other proof of integration efforts

• Forms: Authority-specific forms can be obtained from your Foreigners' Registration Office, which may also be offered online.
• Online procedures possible in some cases
• Written form required: yes
• Personal attendance required: yes

• You have a recognised and valid passport or passport substitute as well as a valid residence permit for family reunification in accordance with §§ 29 and 30 of the Residence Act.
• The validity period of your residence permit will expire in the near future.
• Your spouse or partner is in possession of a valid residence permit.
• There is no interest in expulsion against you.
• Your stay does not endanger or adversely affect the interests of the Federal Republic of Germany
• Their livelihood is secured.
• There is sufficient living space for the whole family.

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, please arrange 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 to arrange an appointment at the Foreigners' Registration Office. During the appointment, your certificates will be checked (please bring them with you to the appointment) and your fingerprints will be taken for the issuance of the eAT.
• If your application is granted, the Foreigners' Registration Office will arrange for the eAT.
• After about six to eight weeks, you can pick up the eAT at the Foreigners' Registration Office.

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

• Extension of the residence permit: at the latest eight weeks before the expiry of your valid residence permit
• Opposition period: 1 month

about six to eight weeks.

• Extension of the residence permit for the implementation of a qualification measure for the recognition of foreign professional qualifications:

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.