Niederlassungserlaubnis
Permanent residence permit
Permanent right of residence in Germany: we check your eligibility, prepare your file and support you until approval.
The Niederlassungserlaubnis is the strongest open-ended residence right short of citizenship. It allows any occupation, any place of residence and family reunification — with no need to reapply when you change jobs or move.
The main requirement is 5 years of uninterrupted lawful residence, combined with B1-level German, financial self-sufficiency and 60 months of pension contributions. EU Blue Card holders can apply after just 21 to 33 months.
Requirements
- ✓5 years of uninterrupted lawful residence in Germany (§ 9 AufenthG)
- ✓Financial self-sufficiency without relying on social benefits
- ✓At least 60 months of statutory pension contributions
- ✓No significant criminal record (Bundeszentralregister)
- ✓Adequate housing for yourself and your family
- ✓German language skills at B1 level or above
- ✓Basic knowledge of German law and civic order
- ✓Valid health insurance
Required documents
- →Valid passport or national ID card
- →Current biometric photograph
- →Current residence permit
- →Employment contract and payslips (last 3 months)
- →Current registration certificate (Meldebescheinigung)
- →Pension contribution record (60 months)
- →B1 language certificate (Goethe-Institut, telc or equivalent)
- →Rental agreement or property ownership proof
Frequently asked questions
When can I apply for the Niederlassungserlaubnis?+
Generally after 5 years of uninterrupted lawful residence. EU Blue Card holders benefit from a shortened period of 21 months (or 33 months at B1 level).
Do periods in the asylum process count towards the 5 years?+
No. Time spent as an asylum seeker or on a Duldung (tolerated stay) does not count. Only periods with a lawful residence permit are included.
What if I spent a long period abroad in the meantime?+
Absences of more than 6 months interrupt the qualifying period. Exceptions apply for work-related stays abroad (§ 51 para. 2 AufenthG).
Can my family apply at the same time?+
Yes. Family members who hold their own time-limited residence permit may, under certain conditions, also apply for a Niederlassungserlaubnis.
What is the total cost?+
The statutory government fee is €113 (§ 45 AufenthV). Sylum.de's accompanying costs vary depending on the complexity of your case.
Process & costs
- 1
Check eligibility
Sylum.de analyses your situation and confirms whether all legal requirements are met.
- 2
Compile your file
We provide a full checklist and guide you through obtaining every required document.
- 3
Submit the application
Book an appointment at the relevant Ausländerbehörde. Processing time: 4–12 weeks depending on the office.
- 4
Government fees
The statutory fee is €113 (§ 45 AufenthV). Our accompanying fees are shared on request.
No residence permit yet?
First apply for a time-limited Aufenthaltstitel
Start your request
Fill in the form — our team will reply within 48 business hours.