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Fees and costs for residence permits
Everything about the costs and fees when applying for a residence permit.
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what it costs to apply for a residence permit
when the costs for the residence permit must be paid
what the reissue of the residence permit costs (e.g. in case of loss)
when the costs for the residence permit can be reduced
1. Costs of a residence permit
2. How much does a residence permit (visa and residence permit) cost?
3. Costs for reissuing an eAT
4. Fee reduction for residence permits
5. FAQ
6. Conclusion on costs and fees (visa and residence permit)
1. Costs of a residence permit
The costs of a residence permit are a key factor in planning skilled immigration to Germany. Both international skilled workers and employers must calculate these costs well in advance to avoid unnecessary delays or procedural errors . Residence fees are regulated by the Residence Ordinance (AufenthV) and are regularly adjusted by the federal government or the responsible immigration authorities. These are so-called individually attributable public services, the fees for which are generally levied uniformly nationwide.
The processing fee is due at the latest upon completion of the official procedure—but often already upon receipt of the application . It is considered a kind of advance payment, which will later be offset against the final fee. If the application is withdrawn, the fee is non-refundable. If the residence and thus the locally responsible immigration authority change , there is no entitlement to reimbursement of fees already paid ( Section 49 (4) of the Residence Ordinance ). The new authority does not charge any additional fees, and no internal reimbursement of costs is made—this saves administrative effort.
2. How much does a residence permit (visa & residence permit) cost?
The applicable fees for each residence permit are regulated in Sections 44 et seq. of the Residence Ordinance . The most common administrative acts subject to fees include:
Cost of Schengen visa (adults) 90 euros
Costs for first-time D visa/national visa 75 euros
Costs for initial residence permit Blue Card or ICT Card 100 euros
Costs for extension of residence permit, Blue Card and ICT card 93 euros
Costs of settlement permit (including skilled workers/Blue Card) 113 euros
Costs of European settlement permit/permanent residence EU 109 euros
Costs of settlement permit for self-employed persons 124 euros
Cost of fictitious certificate 13 euros
Costs of accelerated skilled worker procedure 411 euros
3. Costs for reissuing an eAT
Many foreign nationals in Germany hold an electronic residence permit (eAT). In terms of costs , a distinction must be made between the validity of the eAT card and the validity of the residence permit . The eAT card itself is a technical document that must be renewed regularly, even if the residence permit remains valid. A common reason for the eAT card expiring early is the end of its technical validity (usually after ten years) or the expiration of the identity document to which the eAT card refers. This means that the residence permit remains valid, even if the card expires . However, the person concerned must apply for a new eAT card.
The fee for reissuing the eAT (plastic card) is €67. This amount is due in the following cases, among others:
Expiry of the validity of the identity document or the eAT card (technical period of use)
Change of personal information
Loss of the eAT card
technical defect of the card due to improper use
4. Fee reduction for residence permits
In certain cases, the Residence Ordinance provides for fee exemptions or fee reductions . Fee reductions generally apply in the following cases:
Minors (pay only 50% of the processing fee)
certain applications from Union citizens
Swiss nationals
Scholarship holders and students from certain partner universities
Exchange students and participants in volunteer programs
According to Section 53 (1) of the Residence Ordinance, people can also be exempted from fees if they cannot support themselves without state assistance (e.g. under Book II of the Social Code, Book XII of the Social Code or Benefits for Asylum Seekers). However, exemption is only possible if this can be proven (e.g. by an approval notice for social benefits). According to Section 53 (2) of the Residence Ordinance, the authority can also reduce a fee in other cases if the applicant's financial situation is particularly difficult . However, specific and credible information must be provided for this - simply referring to receipt of benefits is not sufficient. The fact that someone is ill, in training or a minor does not automatically lead to an exemption from fees - even if there is no obligation to secure their own livelihood for residence purposes.
5. FAQ
When do the fees have to be paid?
The fee is due at the latest upon completion of the official procedure—but usually already upon application. If the applicant is withdrawn or relocated, the fee paid will not be refunded (Section 49 (4) of the Residence Ordinance).
Are there any discounts or exemptions from the fee?
Yes, including minors (50%), participants in exchange programs, certain EU/EFTA nationals, and Turkish nationals according to ARB 1/80. A fee reduction or exemption can also be applied for in cases of need under Section 53 of the Residence Ordinance – but only with concrete proof (e.g., a residence permit).
6. Conclusion
The costs for a residence permit in Germany are regulated by law and should be taken into account early on when planning skilled worker immigration . They vary depending on the type of residence permit, ranging from 13 euros ( fictitious certificate ) to 411 euros ( accelerated skilled worker procedure ) and are generally charged even if an application is withdrawn. In certain cases – for example, for minors, scholarship holders or those in financial need – fee reductions or exemptions are possible, but must be specifically applied for and documented. Understanding the fee structure helps to avoid unnecessary costs and delays. It is particularly important to note that the costs mentioned are only the pure administrative processing fees. If you want to hire a lawyer or conduct court proceedings , there will be additional costs.
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List of Sources (Paywall)
[1] Klaus/Wittmann, Residence Ordinance (AufenthV), 1st edition 2022
[2] Sections 44 et seq. of the Residence Ordinance (AufenthV) of 25 November 2004 (Federal Law Gazette I p. 2945), last amended by Article 8 of the Act of 8 May 2024 (Federal Law Gazette 2024 I No. 152)