Mobile Researcher (Mobiler Forscher)

The §18f residence permit is Germany's Mobile Researcher permit for third-country nationals who hold a valid research residence title in another EU member state. Issued under EU Directive 2016/801, it covers stays of 181 days to one year at a German research institution, replacing a full standalone visa process.

The permit costs EUR 100, requires a hosting agreement with a German research facility, and is renewable. Spouses can join without the usual language requirement and are immediately entitled to unrestricted work. Holders can progress to a settlement permit (§18c) after sufficient qualifying time.

This visa is ideal for EU-based researchers with a valid research residence permit from another member state who need to collaborate at a German institution for more than six months.