Blue Card Holders Can Now Apply for Permanent Residence Online (If They Meet These Requirements)

Good news for Blue Card holders in Germany! The process for obtaining a permanent residence permit (Niederlassungserlaubnis) has become more streamlined, with the option to apply online. This simplifies the process and can save you valuable time. However, certain requirements must be met before you can submit your application. This article outlines those key requirements.

Who Can Apply Online?

Holders of an EU Blue Card who have worked in Germany for a specific period are eligible to apply for a permanent residence permit. The standard requirement is generally 33 months of employment. However, if you possess sufficient German language skills (B1 level), this period can be reduced to 21 months. It's crucial to confirm your individual eligibility based on your specific circumstances.

Key Requirements for Online Application:

To be eligible to apply for a permanent residence permit online, you must fulfill the following criteria:

• Permitted Employment as a Skilled Worker: You must have been employed in Germany as a skilled worker with a vocational qualification, academic degree, or in research for at least 3 years (or 2 years if you completed vocational training or studies in Germany). This includes holding a residence permit that allows you to work as a skilled worker (e.g., residence permits according to § 18a, § 18b, or § 18d of the German Residence Act). Time spent in Germany on a national visa that allowed you to work as a skilled worker also counts towards this requirement.

• Continued Employment: You must still be employed as a skilled worker.

• Pension Provision: You must have paid contributions to the statutory pension insurance for at least 36 months. Contributions to a private pension scheme or a company pension scheme that provide comparable benefits are also accepted. If you completed vocational training or studies in Germany, 24 months of contributions are sufficient.

• Sufficient German Language Skills: You need to have adequate German language skills, corresponding to level B1 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).

• Secure Livelihood: You must be able to support yourself and your family without relying on social welfare benefits. You must not receive or be entitled to benefits according to the German Social Code II or XII (e.g., Bürgergeld or Sozialhilfe).

• Sufficient Health Insurance: You must have health insurance coverage in Germany, either through statutory health insurance or comparable private health insurance. Foreign health insurance is generally not sufficient.

• No Criminal Record: You must not have a criminal record or any pending criminal proceedings. Even minor fines can hinder the granting of a permanent residence permit.

• Basic Knowledge of the German Legal and Social System: You are expected to have basic knowledge of the German legal and social system, as well as living conditions in Germany. This is generally assumed if you have completed an integration course or the orientation course "Living in Germany," obtained a school or vocational qualification in Germany, or completed at least one year of school or vocational training in Germany.

• Sufficient Living Space: You must have adequate living space for yourself and your family members living with you.

• Main Residence in Berlin: If you are applying in Berlin, your main residence must be in Berlin. A secondary residence is not sufficient.

• Current Email Address: You must provide a current email address as the immigration office will contact you via email. Make sure to check your spam folder regularly.

• Consent to Electronic Payment: For online applications, you must agree to electronic payment methods. The available payment methods are credit card (Visa, Mastercard) and PayPal.

Online Application Process:

The application process is primarily online. You'll need to gather all the necessary documents in digital format (PDF) and upload them through the online portal. This includes things like your passport, Blue Card, employment contracts, payslips, health insurance confirmation, proof of housing, and language certificates (if applicable).

Important Considerations:

• Quick-Check: Before starting the application, utilize the online "Quick-Check" tool offered by the relevant immigration office (e.g., LEA in Berlin). This helps determine your eligibility and the likelihood of a successful application. You can access the Quick-Check here: Quick-Check.

• Document Preparation: Gather all required documents well in advance. Ensure they are valid and in the correct format.

• Application Fee: There is an application fee that needs to be paid.

• Confirmation: After submitting the online application, you will receive a confirmation. Keep this confirmation as proof of your application.

• Appointment: Even though the application is online, you will likely need to schedule an in-person appointment at the immigration office to finalize the process.

Where to Apply:

The specific office responsible for processing your application depends on where you live in Germany. For those residing in Berlin, the Landesamt für Einwanderung (LEA) is the relevant authority. You can find the application form for the Niederlassungserlaubnis here: Niederlassungserlaubnis allgemein / Erlaubnis zum Daueraufenthalt-EU

Disclaimer: This article provides general information. Immigration regulations can change, and individual circumstances vary. It is essential to consult with the relevant immigration office or a legal professional for personalized advice. Always refer to the official website of the Landesamt für Einwanderung (or the equivalent office in your region) for the most up-to-date and accurate information.