Settlement Permit for Skilled Workers, § 18c AufenthG

Skilled workers in Germany must meet these requirements to apply for a settlement permit.

Here you learn ...

what advantages the settlement permit has for skilled workers
when skilled workers can apply for a settlement permit
Requirements for a settlement permit for skilled workers
how the length of stay is calculated for skilled workers

1. What is a settlement permit for skilled workers?

2. Advantages of a settlement permit for skilled workers

3. Requirements for a settlement permit for skilled workers

4. Calculation of the stay period for skilled workers

5. FAQ

6. Conclusion: Settlement permit for skilled workers

1. What is a settlement permit for skilled workers?

The settlement permit for skilled workers or the settlement permit for holders of an EU Blue Card is a special, unlimited residence permit available only to foreign nationals with recognized qualifications ( Section 18c of the Residence Act ). Academic professionals within the meaning of Section 18b of the Residence Act and holders of an EU Blue Card particularly benefit from this unlimited residence permit for skilled workers. German residence law privileges well-trained skilled workers and holders of an EU Blue Card, as the German labor market, due to the shortage of skilled workers, not only relies on the entry of foreign nationals but also on them staying for a particularly long time and integrating well.

The simplified requirements for skilled workers mean that, according to government statistics , around 50,000 Blue Card holders apply for a permanent residence permit each year. According to BAMF government statistics, around two-thirds of holders of a permanent residence permit previously held an EU Blue Card. The largest proportion of skilled workers with a permanent residence permit live in large cities, particularly in Berlin (approximately one-fifth). Nevertheless, the requirements for a permanent residence permit for skilled workers are often unclear , particularly when it comes to the length of stay or the requirement for an integration course . This article will tell you everything you need to know to apply for permanent residence as a skilled worker.

2. Advantages of a settlement permit for skilled workers

In principle, a settlement permit is the best residence permit for all foreign nationals, as it offers numerous advantages over temporary residence permits. For skilled workers, a settlement permit has additional special advantages, as it allows them to work in any capacity and change jobs without permission from the immigration authorities. In this respect, the EU Blue Card, in particular, requires an employment relationship with a German employer. This is problematic, for example, if they work for a foreign employer from Germany (e.g., from a home office ). The EU Blue Card does not allow this, but the settlement permit for skilled workers does.

Another advantage of the settlement permit for skilled workers is that it allows not only employment, but also freelance work , self-employment, and the establishment of a business . Skilled workers generally have to decide whether they want to work as an employee or self-employed. With a settlement permit, both are possible, and even a combination of both (e.g., part-time employment and self-employment on a part-time basis). Many skilled workers greatly appreciate this flexibility.

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3. Requirements for a settlement permit for skilled workers

To apply for a permanent residence permit, skilled workers must meet numerous requirements . For example, applying for a settlement permit generally requires that you have paid into the pension insurance scheme for a certain period of time. The required period varies depending on your residence status. As a rule, you must have paid into the pension insurance scheme for at least 60 months when applying for a settlement permit. However, this period may be reduced for skilled workers (particularly for holders of an EU Blue Card) if you have German language skills (see below). In general, the following requirements apply to the application for a settlement permit for skilled workers in accordance with Section 18c of the Residence Act:

Recognized qualification as a skilled worker and skilled worker residence permit
Residence of at least 21 months ( Blue Card holders with B1 language skills) or 27 months ( Blue Card holders with A1 language skills)
Payment into pension insurance (period depends on residence status)
Language skills (A1 or B1)
Secure livelihood
Basic knowledge of the legal and social system (integration course)
General requirements for issuing a visa are met (valid passport, no relevant criminal record, secure livelihood)

If all these requirements are met, a settlement permit can be applied for.

4. Calculation of the stay period for skilled workers

The required length of stay for a settlement permit depends on your residence permit. The required periods are staggered as follows:

Holders of an EU Blue Card with B1 language skills : Application for a settlement permit for skilled workers possible after 21 months
Holders of an EU Blue Card with A1 language skills : Application for a settlement permit for skilled workers possible after 27 months

Skilled workers according to §§ 18a, 18b AufenthG : Application for a settlement permit for skilled workers possible after 36 months

With regard to the required length of stay, however, it is important to note that not only the actual length of stay in Germany is relevant, but also, and above all, the period during which pension insurance contributions were paid. Proof of pension insurance contributions must be provided to the immigration authorities upon application. This is usually done by submitting the so-called pension insurance history .

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5. FAQ

What are the advantages of a settlement permit for skilled workers?

The settlement permit according to Section 18c of the Residence Act is unlimited and allows unrestricted employment, self-employment and free choice of employer – in contrast to the EU Blue Card, which is tied to a specific employment relationship.

When can I apply for a permanent residence permit as an EU Blue Card holder?

With B1 language skills after 21 months, with A1 after 27 months, provided pension contributions have been paid (Section 18c Paragraph 2 of the Residence Act).

What language skills are required?

At least A1 – if you can prove B1, the required period of prior residence is shortened (Section 18c Paragraph 2 of the Residence Act).

Do I have to pay into pension insurance as a skilled worker?

Yes. The minimum duration is 21, 27, or 36 months – depending on the residence permit and language skills. Proof of pension insurance history is required.

6. Conclusion

Particularly in light of the ongoing shortage of skilled workers, the settlement permit is a key instrument for permanently binding qualified workers to Germany while offering them genuine security in life and planning. The settlement permit pursuant to Section 18c of the Residence Act offers skilled workers in Germany attractive prospects for long-term residence and comprehensive professional freedom. It not only enables unlimited residence but also complete flexibility in pursuing a career – whether in permanent employment, self-employment, or a combination of both. Thanks to shorter waiting times, particularly for holders of the EU Blue Card, and clearly defined requirements, access to a settlement permit has been made significantly easier for well-qualified skilled workers. Those who meet the necessary requirements – particularly with regard to pension contributions, language skills, and secure livelihood – can benefit from the far-reaching advantages of this residence permit and establish a long-term foothold in Germany.