§25(4a) — Residence Permit for Victims of Human Trafficking

The German §25(4a) AufenthG permit grants temporary residence to victims of human trafficking (§§232–233a StGB) who cooperate with law enforcement in criminal proceedings against their traffickers. Legal residence is not required to apply.

Issued for one year initially, renewable in 2-year extensions tied to proceedings duration, with possible continuation on humanitarian grounds afterwards. Work requires separate Ausländerbehörde authorisation. Initial fee is EUR 100 (EUR 50 for minors); waived for social benefit recipients.

This visa is ideal for non-EU trafficking victims willing to testify against perpetrators who need temporary legal status and protection from deportation while proceedings are active.