Permanent residence in Germany can be obtained if you fulfill certain criteria. However, here we will cover only a couple of them that could be relevant if you plan to work at CISPA.
For more information regarding permanent residence/settlement permit, please check the website content prepared by the Federal Government of Germany, here
Here are some of the various cases regarding acquiring the settlement permit:
You Have a Blue Card
- You have worked (employed in a qualified job) and paid at least 33 months of mandatory or voluntary contributions to the statutory pension fund.
- You can prove that you speak a basic level of German (A1).
- You have adequate living space for yourself and your family.
- You have basic knowledge of the legal and social order in Germany. This can be proved by passing the "Life in Germany" test.
- Bonus: If you can prove that you speak at least B1 level German, you can obtain your settlement permit in 21 months instead.
You Have Been Working in Germany with a Research Residence Permit
- You have been living in Germany with this permit for at least four years.
- You are able to cover your living costs by yourself.
- You have paid at least 48 months of mandatory or voluntary contributions to the statutory pension fund.
- You are employed in a job that fits your qualifications.
- You know at least B1 German and have basic knowledge of the legal and social order in Germany. This can also be proved by passing the "Life in Germany" test.
- You have enough living space for yourself and your family.
You Have Completed Your MSc or BSc in Germany and Have Already Been Working
- After you completed your studies, you obtained and held a residence permit to work/research (not a student visa) in Germany for at least 2 years.
- You are employed in a job that fits your qualifications.
- You have paid at least 24 months of mandatory or voluntary contributions to the statutory pension fund.
- You know at least B1 German and have basic knowledge of the legal and social order in Germany. This can also be proved by passing the "Life in Germany" test.
- You have enough living space for yourself and your family.
You Are a Highly Qualified Professional (Usually for Faculty Members)
- There are cases where you can be granted a settlement permit without having to spend a certain amount of time in Germany (if you are a scientist with special technical knowledge or a teacher in a high-level position, such as a faculty member, etc.) in accordance with Section 18c (3) AufenthG (German Residence Act).
- You must be able to provide proof of academic training.
- It must be reasonable to assume that you can integrate into the German way of life and that your living costs will be covered without having to use public funds.
- Contact your local embassy or Immigration Authority to inquire about the exact required documents, as they can vary depending on each case.
ⓘ Disclaimer
If you now know how you want to acquire your settlement permit, you can apply to the local Immigration Authority. They will inform you about the exact documents required!
Last updated: August 14, 2026, 1:24 am