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Mobile Researcher (Mobiler Forscher)
GermanyGermany•Europe
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Mobile Researcher (Mobiler Forscher)

Working Holiday PR PathwayThis visa can lead to permanent residency, the right to live and work here indefinitely without renewing your visa. Dependents Allowed

At a Glance

Processing Time

1–2 months

Estimated Cost

EUR €100

Stay Duration

1 year

Renewable

Renewal

Renewable

Family

Dependents allowed

PR Pathway

Yes

Sponsor

Job offer required

Work

Remote not required

Official Information
Germany flag

Living in Germany

Cost of Living
2% cheaper than United States
Avg Salary€36,000
Quality of Life
195/200
Full Country Guide

Overview

Short-term work permit for third-country researchers holding a valid research residence title in another EU state, covering stays of 181 days to one year at a German institution.

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.

Germany

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Stay & Extensions

Initial grant1 year

Conversion Paths

Visas you can typically switch to from this status.

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Skilled Worker with Academic Degree (Fachkraft mit akademischer Ausbildung)

ValidityUp to 4 years
Processing1–3 months
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EU Blue Card
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EU Blue Card

Validity4 years
Processing2 weeks – 3 months
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Requirements

PUBLISHED REQUIREMENTS

Possession of a valid residence permit for research purposes issued by another EU member state (under Directive (EU) 2016/801).

The residence permit from the other EU state must remain valid for the duration of the planned research stay in Germany.

A hosting agreement or a corresponding contract with a research institution in Germany.

The research stay must be for a duration of more than 180 days and at most one year.

The application must be submitted at least 30 days before the start of the stay in Germany if the applicant is not already in Germany under a short-term mobility scheme.

KEY CRITERIA

Education

master or higher

REQUIRED DOCUMENTS

Valid passport or passport substitute.

Copy of the valid residence permit for research purposes from another EU member state.

Hosting agreement or contract with the German research institution.

Completed application form for a residence permit.

Biometric passport photo (meeting ICAO criteria).

Proof of health insurance coverage.

Proof of secured livelihood (if not covered by the research contract).

Advantages & Considerations

Key Benefits

  • Streamlined for EU-based researchers
  • Family reunification allowed

Worth Knowing

  • Requires existing EU research status
  • Tied to hosting agreement

Application Process

1

Notify BAMF via host

2

Apply for residence permit at local authority

Related visas

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