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EU Long-Term Residence Permit
GermanyGermany•Europe
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EU Long-Term Residence Permit

Skilled Migration PR PathwayThis visa can lead to permanent residency, the right to live and work here indefinitely without renewing your visa.

At a Glance

Processing Time

4 weeks – 3 months

Estimated Cost

EUR €109

Stay Duration

5 years

Renewable

Renewal

Renewable

Family

Not specified

PR Pathway

Yes

Sponsor

No job offer needed

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

Permanent-equivalent residence for non-EU nationals who have legally resided in an EU country for 5+ years.

The EU Long-Term Residence Permit (§ 9a AufenthG) is a near-permanent status for non-EU nationals who have legally lived in Germany for at least five continuous years. It grants equal treatment with German nationals in employment, education, and social security, plus facilitated mobility to other EU member states.

The permit is open-ended, renewed every five years, with full unrestricted work rights. Spouses may join under family reunification and work without restriction. Applicants must show stable income, B1 German, health insurance, pension contributions, and adequate housing. Fee: EUR 109; processing 4–12 weeks.

This visa is ideal for non-EU nationals who have built a stable, long-term life in Germany and want a secure, near-permanent status with EU-wide mobility rights.

Germany

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Stay & Extensions

Initial grant5 years

Requirements

PUBLISHED REQUIREMENTS

Continuous legal residence in Germany for at least 5 years

Secured livelihood through own income for self and family members

Adequate health and nursing care insurance

Adequate retirement provision (pension contributions)

Sufficient knowledge of the German language (B1 level)

Basic knowledge of the legal and social system in Germany

Sufficient living space for the applicant and family

No grounds for exclusion based on public safety or order

REQUIRED DOCUMENTS

Completed application form for EU permanent residence

Valid passport or passport substitute

Current biometric passport photo

Proof of income (e.g., employment contract, tax assessments)

Proof of health and nursing care insurance

Proof of retirement provision (pension insurance records)

Proof of German language proficiency (B1 certificate)

Proof of successful completion of orientation course/test

Proof of accommodation (rental contract or proof of ownership)

Advantages & Considerations

Key Benefits

  • Near-permanent status
  • EU-wide mobility rights
  • Full work rights

Worth Knowing

  • 5-year residence requirement
  • Integration tests in some countries

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