Extending a residence permit for in-company training and further education

If you hold a residence permit for the purpose of in-company training and further education, you must apply for an extension in good time before it expires.

The same conditions apply to the renewal of a residence permit as to its initial issue. In principle, your residence permit can be renewed until the end of your education or further training, provided that you are still enrolled on the course and are expected to complete it successfully.

The residence permit can only be extended with the consent of the Federal Employment Agency.

An extension is not possible if the Immigration Authority has already ruled this out when the permit was issued or when the most recent extension was granted.

Whilst undertaking a recognised vocational training programme, you are permitted to work up to 20 hours per week in a job that is unrelated to your vocational training. Self-employment is not permitted.

For the duration of your vocational training or further education, you can apply for a vocational training grant to help cover your living expenses.

If your recognised vocational training is terminated prematurely for reasons beyond your control, you do not have to leave Germany immediately. You may spend up to 6 months looking for another training place in Germany.