A Visa allows you to enter Germany, and stay for no more than 90 days in a 180-day cycle.
When you want to stay in Germany for longer than 90 days, you will need to apply for the correct visa in your home country and once you are in Germany, apply for the subsequent residence permit (Aufenhaltstitel) at the competent Aliens Authority in Germany.
There are two types of residence permits in Germany:
- Temporary – Your first type of residence in Germany will always be temporary. You can only apply for permanent residence once certain conditions are met.
- Permanent – may be granted in the form of a Settlement permit (Niederlassungserlaubnis) or Permanent EU residence permit. The settlement permit entitles you to pursue any gainful employment and does not contain any further restrictions.
Holding a residence permit (Aufenthaltserlaubnis) for several years, a secure livelihood and sufficient knowledge of the German language are the minimum requirements for the granting of a settlement permit.
Temporary Residence
Temporary Residence A Visa allows you to enter Germany, but your stay is limited to no more than 90 days in a 180-day cycle.If you want to stay in Germany for longer than 90 days, you will need to apply for the correct visa in your home country. Once in Germany, you must apply for the subsequent residence permit (Aufenhaltstitel) at the
Permanent Residence
A permanent residence in Germany is called a Niederlassungserlaubnis and may be granted as a Settlement permit or Permanent EC residence permit. Very important!! Your residence card has an expiration date that corresponds to your passport. Your residence card is linked to your passport number see the PASS field. See the remarks section on the card as well as nr. 7 below. Germany has
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Applying for residence
A visa allows you to enter Germany. If you want to stay longer than 3 months, you will need to apply for a residence permit (Aufenthaltserlaubnis) at the local immigration authority (Ausländerbehorde )You can only apply for a residence permit after you have registered at the local Town office (Bürgerampt). See more about registering here. Where must you apply You apply at the immigration office (Ausländerbehorde)Depending on where you live, this can be in your city (Stadkreis) or at the district office (Landratsamt). You can use the Ortdienste website to find your local office. Click on the Bundesländer and zoom in from there.Another
List of Long Stay Visas
Long Term visas are seen as visits longer than 90 days and will typically be for work or study visits. If your application is approved, you will receive a visa to enter Germany. Once you are in Germany you will need to apply for your residence permit at the local Ausländerbehörde as soon as possible. You will always apply for your first long-stay German Visa at the German Embassy in South Africa.This might also apply when you change your type of visa e.g from study to work. The German Embassy in South Africa has offices in Cape Town and
Ways of obtaining German citizenship
Ways of obtaining German citizenship Please note: The information provided on this page regarding German citizenship is intended for general informational purposes only. While we strive to ensure the accuracy of the content, it is important to note that laws and regulations can change. We strongly recommend consulting with a legal professional or the appropriate authorities (such as the German embassy, consulate, or local immigration office) for the most up-to-date and personalized advice. The South Africans in Germany website is not responsible for any actions taken based on the information presented here. Table of Contents Pathways to German Citizenship
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