Permanent residence in Germany
Overview page on permanent/unlimited residence in Germany (especially settlement permit).
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About this page
There are various types of permanent residence in Germany. The most important permanent residence permit is the settlement permit . The settlement permit is primarily (but not exclusively) regulated in Sections 9 et seq. of the Residence Act (AufenthG) and is of enormous practical importance for foreigners as an important step toward integration. The settlement permit consolidates residence and makes it independent of the temporary purpose of residence (e.g., employment contract). In some cases, it is also a necessary intermediate step on the path to naturalization.
On this page, you will find all the necessary information on permanent residence and permanent residence permits. The step-by-step guides to the settlement permit are divided according to the type of permanent residence permit (e.g., settlement permit for skilled workers , EU permanent residence permit , and EU permanent residence card ).
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Permanent residence: settlement permit
There are numerous different forms of permanent residence or settlement permit. The basic form of permanent settlement permit is the settlement permit according to Section 9 of the Residence Act (general settlement permit) . A general settlement permit requires a residence permit of five years, a secure livelihood, and B1 language skills.
There are numerous variations and modifications to the general settlement permit. For example, the settlement permit for skilled workers modifies the required length of stay, while the settlement permit for the self-employed imposes additional requirements regarding the success of the self-employed business. Further exceptions also apply to the settlement permit for spouses . The respective requirements can be found in the corresponding VISAGUARD guides.
Permanent residence: EU permanent residence permit
Strictly separate from the settlement permit is the so-called EU long-term residence permit ( Section 9a of the Residence Act ), which is also a permanent residence permit and the best existing residence permit in Germany. The EU long-term residence permit is a permanent residence permit based on the European Long-Term Residence Directive. However, the EU long-term residence permit does not allow for residence throughout Europe. However, the EU long-term residence permit can be recognized in other European countries. Further information can be found in our guide to the EU long-term residence permit .
Permanent residence: EU permanent residence card
When considering permanent residence rights in Germany, the EU Permanent Residence Card is also relevant. It can be issued to EU citizens and their family members. The issuance of the EU Permanent Residence Card is governed by the Freedom of Movement Act (FreizügG/EU) and not the Residence Act. Despite their similarity in name, the EU Permanent Residence Card should not be confused with the EU Permanent Residence Permit.
FAQ on settlement permits
What is the difference between a settlement permit and a residence permit?
The settlement permit and the residence permit are both German residence titles. Unlike the residence permit, however, the settlement permit entitles you to permanent residence and offers numerous other benefits. The settlement permit should not be confused with the European freedom of establishment.
What is the difference between a permanent residence permit and a settlement permit?
A settlement permit is a form of permanent residence. Another permanent residence permit is, for example, the EU permanent residence permit.
What is the difference between a settlement permit and a permanent residence permit for the EU?
Both the settlement permit and the EU permanent residence permit are permanent residence permits. However, in direct comparison, the EU permanent residence permit offers significantly greater advantages. The EU permanent residence permit should not be confused with European freedom of movement rights.
What is the difference between a permanent residence permit and naturalization?
Both a settlement permit and naturalization allow for unlimited residence in Germany. Unlike a settlement permit, however, naturalization grants foreigners German citizenship and a German passport.
