To obtain permanent residency (PR) in Germany, you need to stay in Germany for 5 years and must hold a temporary residence permit for at least five years before applying. Additionally, you need B1-level German language proficiency, proof of sufficient funds, and must pass the Life in Germany test.
Alternatively, you may qualify for Germany PR through specific pathways, such as the EU Blue Card for highly skilled workers. Eligibility for Germany PR is determined by the PR points system, and a minimum of 100 points is required to apply.
Factors that influence your Germany PR score
The table below lists the factors and the corresponding score for each:
|
Factor |
Maximum Points |
|
German Language Proficiency |
50 |
|
Temporary Residence Permit |
50 |
|
Earlier Stay in EU |
25 |
|
Proficiency in English or French |
25 |
|
Ties to Germany |
50 |
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Requirements for Germany PR
The requirements to apply for a Germany PR are as follows:
- Submit the completed application form for Germany PR
- Must have lived in Germany for a minimum of 5 years
- Photograph
- A valid foreign passport
- Proof of educational qualifications
- B1 level German Language proficiency
- Proof of employment and salary statements
- Proof of adequate living space
- Proof of pension contributions
- Health insurance certificate
- No criminal record
- Stable financial resources for yourself

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Specific Pathways for Germany PR
There are specific pathways for Germany PR for certain visa categories, making way for Germany PR in less than five years. The specific pathways are as follows:
German EU Blue Card Holders
- PR in less than 33 months
- A B1 level proficiency in the German language will reduce the PR processing duration to 21 days.
- Professionals in Architecture, Engineering, IT, Healthcare, STEM, Urban and Traffic planning specialists etc.
- Educational qualifications must be recognized by Central Office for Foreign Education (ZAB)
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German Opportunity Card
- Recognized skilled professionals can enter Germany without a pre-employment contract
- Can get German work permit immediately
- Offers a pathway to Germany PR upon receiving the Germany work permit
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Germany Self-Employment Visa
- Eligible for PR after 3 years
- Should have a proper business plan in the interest of the German economy
- Relevant academic qualification
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German University Graduates
- Eligible for PR two years after completing graduation from a German University
- A valid job offer post-study is mandatory
- Contribution to the pension scheme for 24 months
- B1 level proficiency in German is also required

Application Procedure for Germany PR
The step-by-step procedure to apply for Germany PR is as follows:
Step 1: Check if you are eligible for Germany PR
Step 2: Gather all relevant documents
Step 3: Complete the PR application process
Step 4: Pay the PR processing fee of €147
Step 5: It will take 2 to 6 months for PR processing, depending on the pathway you use to apply

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