Apply for EU long-term residence
Permanent residence permit for third-country nationals who have been residing legally in Germany for at least 5 years and meet additional requirements.
How to proceed
- 1
Check the requirements
5 years of residence, language proficiency, proof of sufficient financial means, pension insurance contributions.
- 2
Submit an application to the Office of Immigration and Naturalization
Along with proof of income, language proficiency, and housing.
- 3
Issuance of the EU Settlement Permit
Permanent and with greater freedom of movement within the EU.
Responsible authority
The authority of your main place of residence is responsible.Find authority →
Fees
Varies by case
Processing time
approx. 3 months
Official: max. approx. 3 months
Online application
Online possible – at the responsible authority
Common mistakes
- • Required contribution period for pension insurance (60 months) not met
- • Proof of housing (sufficient living space) is missing
Common reasons for rejection
- • Livelihood not secured
- • Language proficiency (usually B1 level) or pension contributions (60 months) not verified
You can usually file an objection against a rejection.
The essentials before applying
Who is eligible?
Third-country nationals who have resided legally in the country for at least five years, have a secure source of income, and possess sufficient language skills.
Income limit
The limit varies by household and region – see the table at the responsible authority or in the application assistant.
Processing time
Nationwide: approx. approx. 3 months
Success rate
approx. 75.0 % (estimate)
Most common mistakes
- •Required contribution period for pension insurance (60 months) not met
- •Proof of housing (sufficient living space) is missing
Common reasons for rejection
- •Livelihood not secured
- •Language proficiency (usually B1 level) or pension contributions (60 months) not verified
Alternatives
- Check related services in the application assistant
- Use social counselling before applying
If rejected
File a written objection within 30 days – with reasons why the decision is wrong and any missing evidence.