How to apply for a permanent residence permit in Germany: a step-by-step guide for immigrants
Obtaining permanent residence in Germany (Niederlassungserlaubnis) is a desired goal for many citizens of other countries who have been living in this country for a long time. A permanent residence permit opens up wide opportunities: complete freedom of employment, social security, access to state benefits, education and healthcare. In this material, we will tell you in detail who is eligible for this service, what requirements the state sets, and how legal support speeds up the process.
The main conditions for obtaining permanent residence in Germany
To apply for a permanent residence permit, the applicant must meet a number of criteria:
- Legal residence in Germany for at least 5 years on the basis of a national residence permit (Aufenthaltstitel).
- Stable income that covers the needs of the applicant and family members without resorting to social assistance.
- Confirmation of payment of contributions to the pension fund for at least 60 months.
- Knowledge of German at level B1 or higher (confirmed by a certificate).
- No criminal record, fulfillment of mandatory integration requirements (passing an integration course).
- Availability of health insurance and housing in accordance with the norms.

For certain categories (highly qualified specialists, graduates of German universities, entrepreneurs), simplified conditions may apply: a shortened period of residence or reduced income requirements.
How the application procedure for a PMP works
The process of obtaining a PMP consists of several stages:
- Initial check of compliance with the requirements - a specialist analyzes the client's documents and determines the likelihood of a successful application.
- Preparation of a package of documents - passport, residence permit, employment or income certificate, housing rental agreement, health insurance, confirmation of language skills, etc.
- Registration with the local Ausländerbehörde (migration authority).
- Submission of documents and interview.
- Waiting for a decision - usually 1–3 months.
Obtaining a residence permit that has no expiration date (but can be canceled if necessary, for example, in the event of a long stay outside the EU).
Legal support: why is it important
The procedure for applying for a residence permit in Germany may seem complicated due to bureaucracy, language barriers, and nuances of the law. A legal specialist accompanies the client from consultation to obtaining the permit:
- analyzes the individual situation;
- assists with the preparation and translation of documents;
- maintains correspondence with authorities;
- provides support at the interview;
- appeals the refusal (if any).
Cost and terms of service
The average time for obtaining a residence permit, including preparation, is 2–4 months. Legal support depends on the complexity of the situation:
- Consultation — from 1,500 UAH.
- Preparation of documents — from 7,000 UAH.
- Full turnkey support — from 18,000 UAH.
ConclusionRegistration of permanent residence in Germany is an important step towards integration into German society. To go through all the stages confidently and without mistakes, we recommend contacting proven specialists. On the Consultant platform, you can choose a lawyer who will prepare you for filing, help you avoid rejections, and bring you closer to the desired result.