Permanent Resident of Germany - How to Get PR in Germany?

Germany with its world-class education, low or no tuition fees and excellent job prospects is good for students planning to study abroad. But what happens after graduation? How do you stay back and eventually settle there? This article includes complete step-by-step process of getting Permanent Residence (PR) in Germany. 

Germany is already famous for its low cost education among Indian students. But the country is also known for its post study work opportunities. With over 42,000 Indian students studying in Germany (Winter Semester 2023-24), most of these graduates are now exploring ways to stay back after their studies. After completing their education, many students begin looking for ways to extend their stay in Germany. One of such most promising routes is getting a Permanent Residency (PR) in Germany. The German PR is officially referred to as the Niederlassungserlaubnis. This long-term residence permit allows you to live and work in Germany indefinitely - making it a sought-after goal for international graduates and skilled workers. 

What is PR for Germany? 

PR or Settlement Permit in Germany is a long-term residence permit that allows foreigners to stay in the country without the need for yearly visa renewal/extensions. This permit doesn’t make you a German citizen but it grants you similar rights like- 

• Free movement within the country 

• Access to German labour market (job market) 

• Social security benefits 

• Eligibility for family reunification 

• It makes you eligible for German citizenship (after a few years of PR) 

Step-by-Step Guide on How to Get PR in Germany 

Check out this small guide on how Indian students can get a PR in Germany in the most easy and simple way. 

Step 1- Study in Germany 

Studying in Germany is the most easy way to get a PR in Germany. One only needs to complete their higher education in the country from a recognised German university followed by working for some time in the country on an eligible visa and then switching their work permit into a PR. Note that after graduation, one also becomes eligible for an 18-month Job Seeker Visa to find jobs relevant to their degree. If they get a job offer right after or during their graduation year, they can directly apply for a work visa as well. 

Step 2- Switch to a work visa 

Once you get a job, next step is to switch from a German study visa or the post study work visa  to a German Work Permit or the EU Blue Card. Note that for this you must be working in a field that is relevant to your course of study and you must also contribute to German tax and social security system. 

Step 3- Apply for a German PR 

You may apply for PR in Germany after working for certain number of months in Germany. 

Timeline for getting PR in Germany 

PR in Germany Eligibility Criteria 

Meet following requirements to be eligible to apply for German PR - 

• Get a valid qualification from a German university - if applying via the graduate route 

• Get a stable job in your field of study 

• Make minimum required contributions to German pension insurance (for 24-60 months depending on permit type) 

• Get proficiency in German Language - minimum B1 level (CEFR) 

• Provide proof of accommodation in Germany 

• Get health insurance 

• Keep your legal record clean 

Documents Required for PR Application in Germany 

The list of documents required to apply for German Settlement Permit is given below- 

• Valid passport 

• Biometric photo 

• Employment contract 

• Latest payslips 

• Social security contribution record 

• Pension insurance record (Rentenversicherung) 

• Health insurance confirmation 

• Proof of residence (rental agreement + registration) 

• German language certificate (B1 or above) 

• University degree (if applicable) 

• Completed application form (Antrag auf Erteilung der Niederlassungserlaubnis) 

Types of Permanent Residency Permits in Germany 

1. Standard Settlement Permit 

This is the most common type of PR issued to foreign nationals after working in Germany. This is valid for 5 years. 

2. EU Blue Card Holders' Settlement Permit 

If you're working in Germany on an EU Blue Card, you can apply for PR after 33 months, or 21 months with B1-level German. 

3. Permanent EU Residence Permit 

This permit allows you to live in other EU countries (under certain conditions) after 5 years of residence in Germany. 

Benefits of Holding a PR in Germany 

• Indefinite right to live and work in Germany 

• No need to renew visa every few years 

• Unrestricted access to the German’s job market 

• Easier access to bank loans and property ownership 

• Family reunification made easier 

• Eligibility to apply for German citizenship after a few years 

Family Reunification with PR in Germany 

Once you hold a PR permit, you can sponsor your spouse and children to join you in Germany. Your family members may also become eligible for their own residence permits and enjoy similar rights. 

German Language Requirement for PR 

Learning German not only helps with your PR application but also improves your chances in the job market and day-to-day life. To apply for PR in Germany faster (within 21 months under the Blue Card scheme), you must prove B1 level proficiency in German. You can prepare for and appear in exams like- 

• TestDaF 

• Goethe-Institut B1 

• Telc Deutsch B1 

Official Sources for PR in Germany 

When applying for PR in Germany - rely on trustworthy official sources only. For most accurate and current details - check Germany’s Federal Office for Migration and Refugees (BAMF) or your nearest Foreigners' Registration Office (Ausländerbehörde). Here are the official portals for the same- 

• Federal Office for Migration and Refugees - BAMF 

• Make it in Germany - Govt. Portal for Skilled Workers 

Irrespective of your current educational or professional standing in Germany, planning ahead for your German PR can help you make smart choices today.