If you come from abroad and want to stay or settle down in Germany, you generally need a residence permit. There are many ways to get a residence permit in Germany. It depends on the reason for your stay. You can apply for a temporary or permanent residence permit.
Foreigners basically need a residence title oriented to their purpose of stay.
There are the following types of residence title:
- Visa
- Residence permit (temporary)
- EU Blue Card
- ICT card
- Mobile ICT card
- Settlement permit (unlimited)
- Permit for permanent residence EU
Each residence permit is issued in credit card format as an "electronic residence title" (eAT). To apply for the issuance or extension of a residence permit, please use the online form "Application for a residence permit" (opens in a new tab) in English.