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Publication date: 20.05.2024
Lawyer
How to get a permanent residence permit in Germany after temporary protection
With the beginning of the full-scale Russian-Ukrainian war, many Ukrainians sought refuge in European countries, in particular in Germany.
Under Germany's temporary protection status, known as **Aufenthaltstitel** under paragraph 24, Ukrainians have been granted the right to social support, employment opportunities, access to education and even the opportunity to start their own business.
Although this temporary protection has been extended until March 4, 2025, many Ukrainians are now considering how to obtain permanent residence in Germany.
## Understanding temporary protection and permanent residence
Temporary protection in Germany offers immediate assistance and opportunities for integration, but it does not automatically lead to a permanent residence permit. After the Temporary Protection Directive no longer applies, Ukrainians wishing to stay in Germany must apply for an **Aufenthalstitel** on other grounds, such as employment, study or family reunification. This application process involves meeting the same requirements as all other residence permit applicants.
## Registration of residence permit in EU countries . Grounds for obtaining a permanent residence permit
To transition from temporary protection to a permanent residence permit (Niederlassungserlaubnis), several criteria must be met:
1. **Duration of residence**: You must have lived in Germany under temporary protection for more than five years.
2. **Housing**: You must have a stable housing situation, either through home ownership or self-financed rent without housing subsidies (Wohngeld).
3. **Stable income**: You must demonstrate a stable income sufficient to support yourself without relying on public assistance or subsidies from the job center or social security.
4. **Health Insurance**: You must have valid health insurance.
5. **Language proficiency**: You must have a basic knowledge of the German language, at least at the A2 level, confirmed by a certificate.
### Paths to permanent residence. Issuance of a residence permit in EU countries
Ukrainians who want to obtain a permanent residence permit should consider the following ways:
1. **Education**: Enrolling and completing a degree program in Germany can be a viable path if you have financial support for your studies (approximately €930 per month).
2. **Employment**: Getting a job that matches your qualifications and is in demand in Germany can lead to a residence permit. The job should match your education and professional skills.
3. **Business visa**: opening a profitable and economically beneficial business for Germany can also be a way to obtain a permanent residence permit.
4. **Blue Card**: The EU Blue Card is intended for highly qualified citizens of non-EU countries. To qualify, you must have a college degree and a job offer with a salary that meets the minimum threshold.
5. **Freelancer Visa**: Available to those who can prove they have enough clients and income for themselves.
### Special circumstances and additional routes
- **Family reunification**: If you have close family members who are German citizens or permanent residents, you can apply for residence on the basis of family reunification.
- **Marriage to a German citizen**: Marrying a German citizen can provide an easy path to permanent residence.
- **Jewish Immigration**: Those of Jewish descent may qualify for special immigration programs.
- **German roots**: If you can prove German origin, there may be special provisions for obtaining a residence permit.
## Acceleration of the process
If you want to speed up your path to permanent residence, consider changing your temporary protection to another type of residence (for example, for work or study) as soon as possible. This change allows you to start accumulating the necessary period of residence for obtaining a permanent residence permit earlier. However, it is important to note that leaving the status of temporary protection means the loss of certain benefits, such as Kindergeld (child benefit), free integration courses and the use of a Ukrainian driver's license for more than six months.
### Steps for submitting an application for a residence permit
1. **Determine the basis for your application**: Choose the appropriate basis for your residence permit (work, education, business, etc.).
2. **Collect the documents**: Gather all necessary documents, including proof of stable income, health insurance, housing and German language skills.
3. **Apply**: Apply for a residence permit at your local immigration office (Ausländerbehörde).
4. **Complete Additional Requirements**: Complete any additional requirements related to your chosen base, such as getting a job or going to university.
## Conclusion
Obtaining a permanent permit residence in Germany after temporary protection involves various legal and administrative procedures. By understanding the requirements and planning accordingly, Ukrainians can successfully move to permanent residence in Germany, ensuring stability and the opportunity to continue building their lives in a new country. For more detailed information, please refer to the German Residence Act (AufenthG) and follow the latest guidance from the German immigration authorities.
