Applying for a residence permit to look for work after completing your degree
Service description
As a foreign graduate of a German university, you can apply for a residence permit to look for work once you have completed your studies.
The employment you are seeking must be one for which you are qualified. The employment you are seeking may also be self-employment.
This residence permit may be granted for up to 18 months. The residence permit is issued solely for the purpose of seeking employment and cannot be extended beyond this maximum period.
Whilst looking for work, any form of gainful employment is permitted and does not require authorisation.
Procedure
- Find out whether your foreigners authority allows you to apply online or has a special application form.
- If the application can only be submitted in person, make an appointment at the Foreigners' Registration Office. If you apply online, the Foreigners' Registration Office will contact you after receiving your application to arrange an appointment.
- During the appointment, your identity and documents will be checked (please bring your documents to the appointment, preferably in the original).
- If your application is approved, your fingerprints will be taken for the production of a new electronic residence permit (eAT card). The Foreigners’ Registration Office commissions the Bundesdruckerei to produce the eAT card. Once it is ready, you will be notified and can collect your residence permit from the relevant office. As a general rule, you must collect the eAT card in person.
- If your application is rejected, you will receive a rejection notice.
Who should I contact?
The immigration authority responsible for the applicant’s place of residence.
Prerequisites
- You hold a recognised and valid identity document (for example, a passport or a passport substitute).
- You hold a valid residence permit for the purpose of studying (Section 16b or Section 16c of the Residence Act).
- You have successfully completed your studies in Germany and your residence permit is due to expire in the near future.
- You can support yourself and maintain your health insurance cover without having to claim public benefits.
- There is no interest in deporting you.
Their stay does not jeopardise or impair the interests of the Federal Republic of Germany.
Which documents are required?
- Recognised and valid identity document (e.g. passport or passport substitute)
- Visa, if required for entry
- Current biometric photo in passport format (45 x 35 mm)
- A valid residence permit for the purpose of studying (Section 16b or Section 16c of the Residence Act)
- Proof of successful completion of a degree in Germany
- Evidence of means of support (e.g. employment contract, personal funds, blocked account, declaration of financial commitment)
- Proof of health insurance cover
- Current registration certificate
In individual cases, the Immigration Authority may require less or more supporting documentation
What fees are incurred?
Fee: 98.00 EUR
Remark:
Additional fees may be incurred for issuing the residence permit in the form of an electronic residence permit, which can also be used as electronic proof of identity.
What deadlines do I have to observe?
The application should be received by the Immigration Authority no later than 8 days before your current residence permit expires.
Validity period (for fixed-term contracts): maximum 18
The residence permit is issued for a fixed period of up to 18 months. It is not possible to extend the residence permit beyond this maximum period.
Processing time
The production of the electronic residence permit by Bundesdruckerei takes about 4 to 6 weeks.
Legal basis
Legal remedy
- Appeal against the decision of the Immigration Authority
- Action before the court named in the notice of objection if the objection is not upheld
Applications / Forms
Informal application possible: No
Personal appearance required: Yes