How much does the EU permanent residence permit cost?

Anyone who wishes to live and work permanently in Germany can, under certain conditions, apply for an EU permanent residence permit . This special residence permit grants third-country nationals long-term rights – not only in Germany, but also within the EU. But what are the costs involved in applying?

The legal basis of the fees

According to Section 44a of the Residence Ordinance (AufenthV), a fee of €109 is charged for the granting of a permanent EU residence permit . Different fee regulations apply to Turkish nationals under Section 52a Paragraph 2 of the Residence Ordinance, which are currently also based on the stated amount.

Is the fee reasonable?

The legality of such fees is regularly reviewed – not only by German courts, but also by the European Court of Justice (ECJ) . In a recent ruling, the ECJ ruled that fees for residence permits must not be disproportionately high . In one specific case, an Italian regulation was criticized, charging between €80 and €200 for the issuance or renewal of a residence permit. The ECJ viewed this as a potential obstacle to the exercise of rights guaranteed by EU law. In comparison, the German fee of €109 initially appears moderate.

What should applicants pay attention to?

Even if the fee is regulated by law, applicants should check whether a fee exemption or reduction is possible in their specific case – for example, if they can demonstrate indigence or a particular need for protection. Authorities have discretion in this regard in individual cases. An experienced lawyer can assess whether the fee amount is legally challengeable or whether other ways to reduce costs exist.

Conclusion : The cost of a permanent residence permit in the EU is currently €109. Whether this amount is always justified depends on the individual case and the EU law's interpretation of the principle of proportionality. If you are unsure, we recommend consulting a lawyer to clarify any potential financial burdens early on.