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Accelerated employer procedure in Berlin
BIS Berlin: How does the Business Immigration Service (BIS) work?
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What lies behind the specialized department B6 of the State Office for Immigration (LEA).
Why the Business Immigration Service (BIS) is the fastest way for Berlin companies.
How registration as a new customer works and what legal requirements apply.
How we, as a law firm, can accelerate the process for employers and skilled workers in a legally compliant manner.
1. What is the Business Immigration Service (BIS)?
2. Advantages of the Business Immigration Service (BIS)
3. How does the Business Immigration Service (BIS) work?
4. VISAGUARD and Business Immigration Service (BIS)
5. FAQ UNTIL
6. Conclusion BIS
1. What is the Business Immigration Service (BIS)?
The Business Immigration Service (BIS) , often referred to internally as Department B6 of the State Office for Immigration, is a specialized department that serves as a central point of contact for Berlin's business community. In our daily work, we see that the BIS is a unique collaboration of key stakeholders from both the public and private sectors, including the Berlin Chamber of Commerce and Industry (IHK Berlin) and Berlin Partner . The goal of this cooperation is to strengthen Berlin's position as a business location by providing highly efficient services for foreign investors , entrepreneurs, and qualified professionals.
Located at Fasanenstraße 85, 10623 Berlin , this unit focuses exclusively on the needs of companies that recruit skilled workers from abroad or already employ them in Berlin. Unlike the regular departments of the LEA (State Reception Center) at Friedrich-Krause-Ufer, the BIS (Berlin Information and Security Center) offers a comprehensive range of expertise that extends far beyond simply processing applications. It represents a genuine service commitment to the Berlin labor market, aiming to minimize bureaucratic hurdles in obtaining residence permits, thereby contributing to the economic development of the capital.
2. Advantages of the Business Immigration Service (BIS)
A crucial point we repeatedly emphasize to our clients: The BIS (Berlin Information System) must not be confused with the traditional accelerated skilled worker procedure under Section 81a of the German Residence Act . While the procedure under Section 81a is regulated nationwide and incurs fees, the BIS in Berlin offers internal prioritization that processes applications with significantly above-average speed . In many cases, applications are finalized within a few days, which represents an exceptional improvement compared to the months-long waiting times in other departments.
For employers, this translates into enormous planning certainty. Thanks to close collaboration with partner organizations, not only can residence permits for employees be processed with high efficiency, but simultaneously, applications for family reunification permits for their family members under Sections 29 et seq. of the German Residence Act (AufenthG) can also be handled simultaneously. This comprehensive support ensures that valuable specialists can begin their work without unnecessary delays, which often provides a decisive competitive advantage in Berlin's dynamic startup and established business landscape.
3. How does the Business Immigration Service (BIS) work?
Access to this exclusive service requires prior registration . As an employer, you must register once as a BIS client on the website of the State Office for Immigration. This process is straightforward and takes only a few minutes, provided the company has the necessary authorization to represent the office. After successful activation, companies gain access to a dedicated online portal through which applications can be submitted directly, eliminating the need for postal mail or lengthy email correspondence. Registration by the BIS is usually completed within just a few days.
Within the BIS system, digital applications are available for most residence permits, such as the EU Blue Card according to Section 18g of the German Residence Act (AufenthG) . Adherence to deadlines is crucial: The LEA (State Office for Immigration and Asylum) generally only accepts extension applications eight weeks before the current visa expires. Exceptions to this are a planned change of employer or a change of purpose, for example, from studies to employment according to Section 16b of the German Residence Act (AufenthG ). In these cases, the BIS procedure allows for early application to guarantee a seamless transition in employment.
4. VISAGUARD and Business Immigration Service (BIS)
Although the system is designed for ease of use, complex cases in labor migration law often require legal expertise. As a specialized law firm, we act as an interface between your company and Department B6. Since the BIS is exclusively a corporate service, we support employers in precisely verifying the legal requirements for the immigration of their employees in advance. We ensure that all documents comply with the strict requirements of the Employment Ordinance (BeschV) to avoid inquiries or rejections.
As part of our Business Immigration Service, our law firm handles all communication with the authorities and ensures that digital applications are submitted correctly and completely. For founders and self-employed individuals seeking a residence permit under Section 21 of the German Residence Act (AufenthG) , professional preparation of the business plan and financial documentation is essential. We guide you through the entire LEA (Local Authorization Office) process, allowing you to focus on your core business while we safeguard your legal interests.
5. FAQ UNTIL
Who can use the Business Immigration Service?
This service is exclusively for companies, founders, and self-employed individuals based in Berlin who are registered as clients with the LEA. Individuals such as students must contact the regular departments.
Does using the BIS incur additional fees?
Registration as a customer is free of charge. The usual statutory fees according to the Residence Ordinance apply for the issuance of residence permits.
Where is the BIS located in person?
The service point is located at Fasanenstraße 85, 10623 Berlin, while the postal address is via the main building at Friedrich-Krause-Ufer 24.
Can family members also be cared for via the BIS?
Yes, the BIS offers a holistic service that includes the specialist's core family to enable rapid integration.
6. Conclusion BIS
The Business Immigration Service is the most efficient tool for Berlin-based companies to compete for talent in the global market. By consolidating expertise within Department B6 and utilizing a digital application process, procedures that could otherwise take months are streamlined. We recommend that every Berlin employer register early. As your law firm, we are ready to manage these processes and ensure your business immigration is smooth and legally compliant.