Residence permit
for students and graduates
We advise you on the requirements and guide you through the entire process – from the visa to the residence permit after graduation.
Residence permit for study purposes
To study in Germany, you generally need a residence permit for study purposes.
This is particularly relevant if you:
- are admitted to a German university
- complete a preparatory college or language course
- pursue a serious study goal
The requirements are often checked during the visa procedure. Your motivation to study is also regularly scrutinized.
During your studies
- Purpose limitation of the residence permit
Your residence permit is sometimes tied to a specific degree program or university. A change may result in your residence permit expiring. - Duration of studies
The residence permit will be extended as long as a successful degree is still expected. If you study significantly longer than the average, an extension may be difficult. - Gainful employment
As a rule, you may work up to 140 days per year or 20 hours per week. - Dropping out of university
Dropping out of university can result in your residence permit becoming invalid immediately. A change to another residence permit must be checked and applied for in good time.
Typical problems in practice
- Problems in the visa procedure (e.g. doubts about motivation to study)
- Change of subject without timely application
- Extension is rejected due to missing or poor study prognosis
- Uncertainty when changing the residence permit
After graduation: stay to look for a job
After successfully completing the course, you can obtain a residence permit to look for a job.
- Duration: up to 18 months
- full access to the labor market during this time
- Prerequisite for granting: Securing a livelihood
- Prerequisite for extension: qualified job offer with appropriate salary
Perspective: Permanent residence
If you take up qualified employment after your studies, you can obtain a settlement permit after just two years under certain conditions.
The periods of study count towards the periods required for naturalization.
Typical case
You are studying in Germany or have already completed your studies and would like to work here.
We check for you:
- whether your residence permit can be extended
- what options you have after graduation
- how to change to a residence permit for gainful employment
We can do that for you:
- Examination of your individual situation
- Strategy for visa and residence
- Support with extending and changing residence permits
- Communication with the immigration authorities
- Representation in application and legal proceedings
