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Apply for an extension of the residence permit to take an examination for the recognition of a foreign professional qualification

You can extend your residence permit to take examinations for the recognition of foreign professional qualifications.

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Detailed description

If the validity of your residence permit expires before you have completed the examination procedure required for the recognition of your foreign qualification, you can apply for an extension of your residence permit.
The residence permit was issued solely for the purpose of taking an exam. An extension of the residence permit is therefore only possible if the exam procedure has not yet been completed.
The same conditions apply to the extension of the residence permit as for its issuance. In particular, your livelihood should be secured for the duration of your stay.
In the event of an extension, your residence permit will be limited again; usually for the remaining duration of the examination procedure. The validity of the residence permit covers the period from taking the examination until the announcement of the examination result or until the issuing of a decision by the responsible authority concluding the procedure.
The residence permit cannot be extended if it is foreseeable that the examination cannot be taken within a reasonable period of time or if the extension was already excluded by the immigration authorities at the time of issue or the most recent extension.

 

Information

Prerequisites

  • You have a recognized and valid passport or passport replacement as well as a valid residence permit for the recognition of your professional qualification.
  • The validity of your residence permit will expire in the near future.
  • You initiate the procedure to determine the equivalence of your foreign professional qualification or, if necessary, to obtain a permit to practice your profession from the responsible recognition body in Germany.
  • You take an examination to have your foreign professional qualification recognized.
  • There is no interest in deporting you.
  • Your stay does not endanger or impair the interests of the Federal Republic of Germany
  • Their livelihood is secure.
  • You have the language skills required to take the exam

Documents required

  • Passport or passport replacement
  • Current biometric photo
  • Existing residence permit
  • Proof of livelihood (for example: blocked account at a bank)
  • Proof of your health insurance
  • employment contract
  • rental contract
  • Evidence of the recognition procedure (for example: initial notice from the recognizing body or the certificate of participation in a qualification measure) - Deficit notice
  • Proof of language skills

Deadlines

The extension of your residence permit should be applied for no later than eight weeks before your current residence permit expires.

Procedure

You must apply for an extension of your residence permit at the immigration office responsible for your place of residence.

  • Depending on the immigration authority and the matter, it may be possible to apply online. Find out whether your immigration authority offers electronic application for a residence permit.
  • If the application can only be submitted in person, arrange an appointment with the immigration authorities.
  • During the appointment, your application will be accepted and your documents will be checked (please bring these with you to the appointment). Your fingerprints will be taken to issue the electronic residence permit (eAT).
  • If you submit your application electronically, the immigration authorities will contact you after receiving your online application to arrange an appointment at the immigration authorities.
  • During the appointment, your documents will be checked (please bring them with you to the appointment) and your fingerprints will be taken for the issuance of the eAT card.
  • If your application is approved, the immigration authorities will arrange for the eAT card to be produced.
  • After about six to eight weeks you can collect your eAT card from the immigration office
  • Fees are charged for extending the residence permit. The timing and form of payment vary depending on the authority

Processing time

about six to eight weeks

Fees

Extension of the residence permit for the recognition of professional qualifications based on an agreement with the Federal Employment Agency


  • for a further stay of up to three months: €96.00

  • for a further stay of more than three months: €93.00

Under certain conditions, a fee reduction or fee exemption may be considered.

Legal remedies

An appeal against the negative decision can be lodged with the authority within one month after notification.

Legal basis

§ 8 (1) Residence Act (AufenthG)

§ 16d (5) Residence Act (AufenthG)

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Keywords: Equivalency assessment foreign degree Qualifying Examination recognition procedure knowledge test Application for residence permit Right of residence Recognition of foreign professional qualifications Compensatory measures Continuation of the stay Further qualification Extension of stay Taking an exam Final examination in Germany German language skills Examination procedure § 8 (1) Residence Act (AufenthG) § 16d (5) Residence Act (AufenthG)

Last updated: 16.02.2025