Settlement Permit in Germany

In this article, we will tell you how to obtain a German settlement permit or permanent residence permit (German PR), including requirements and faster pathways for specific groups such as self-employed individuals, skilled workers, and EU Blue Card holders.

As opposed to a regular (temporary) residence permit, a German permanent residence permit is not limited in time. Please note that the requirements for obtaining a German settlement permit can change with time and are different depending on the location, situation and the type of your residence permit.

Here is the general list of requirements:

1. Having had a residence permit in Germany for 5 years.
2. Speaking German at B1 level.
3. Having basic knowledge of the legal and social order and living conditions in Germany (usually, confirmed through the so-called “Life in Germany” test).
4. Secured livelihood through your own income.
5. Pension plan. You need to have paid mandatory contributions for at least 60 months.
6. Sufficient health insurance for yourself and your family members.
7. No criminal record.

Now, let’s review several groups of applicants who have good chances of getting a settlement permit faster and easier.

German settlement permit for the self-employed

For example, if you are a managing director and hold at least 50% of the shares in a company, you are considered a self-employed.

Here are the German settlement permit requirements for the self-employed:

1. Having been self-employed for 3 years.
2. Having a valid residence permit for self-employment at the time of application.
3. Based on your business progress and success, it can be expected that your business will continue developing and prospering.
4. Being able to cover the living expenses for yourself and your family.

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German settlement permit for skilled workers

Skilled workers can apply for a settlement permit in Germany if the following requirements are met:

1. Having had a residence permit in Germany according to sections 18a, 18b, 18d, or 18g of the Residence Act for 3 years.
2. Secured livelihood through your own income.
3. Having paid mandatory or voluntary contributions into the statutory pension insurance for at least 36 months.
4. Your current employment aligns with the conditions of your residence permit.
5. Speaking German at B1 level.
6. Having passed the “Life in Germany” test.
7. Having sufficient living space for yourself and any family members living with you.

German settlement permit for highly skilled workers

There are certain special cases when highly skilled workers are eligible for the German settlement permit under Section 18c (3) of the Residence Act immediately after entering Germany. That might be the case for scientists with special knowledge or other specialists in a prominent position.

Important requirements for such cases are:

1. Having completed academic training, and
2. There is proof that you will be able to integrate into life in Germany and can cover all your living expenses through your own income.

German settlement permit for EU Blue Card holders

Blue Card holders are also eligible to apply for a German settlement permit under simplified conditions. Here they are:

1. Having had qualified employment for at least 27 months.
2. Having paid contributions into the statutory pension insurance.
3. Speaking German at A1 level. In case you can demonstrate German language skills at B1 level, you can apply for a settlement permit after 21 months of employment.
4. Having passed the “Life in Germany” test.
5. Having sufficient living space.
6. Being able to cover your living expenses your own income.

German settlement permit for people who have completed higher education or vocational training in Germany

Those who have successfully completed higher education or vocational training in Germany have the following simplified conditions:

1. Having had a residence permit for employment as a skilled worker for at least 2 years.
2. Your employment aligns with the conditions of your residence permit.
3. Having paid contributions into the statutory pension insurance for at least 24 months.
4. Speaking German at B1 level.
5. Having passed the “Life in Germany” test.
6. Having sufficient living space.

German settlement permit for spouses of skilled workers

As a spouse of a skilled worker one can apply for a settlement permit in Germany if the following requirements are fulfilled:

1. Your spouse has a settlement permit for skilled workers under Section 18c of the Residence Act.
2. Having had a residence permit in Germany for at least 3 years.
3. Working at least 20 hours per week and having a valid work permit.
4. Living together in a partnership with your spouse.
5. Speaking German at B1 level.
6. Having passed the “Life in Germany” test.

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