Applying for a residence permit for former German citizens abroad

Prerequisites

• They have sufficient knowledge of the German language.
• They live abroad and have their center of life there.

Documents required

• Valid proof of identity such as an identity card, passport, substitute travel document or other personal documents from your country of origin.
• Birth certificate
• biometric passport photo in electronic form
  • You can have a passport photo taken on site. A photo booth is available.
• Documents proving that you previously held German citizenship

You may be required to submit further documents. You can find more information when completing the online service or from the responsible authority.

Please note

Deadlines

no

Procedure

• They use the provided online service to apply for the residence permit and upload the required documents.
• The relevant authority will then send you an appointment for a consultation.
• Please bring all necessary documents, preferably in original form, to the appointment.
• The relevant authority will verify your identity and documents.
• The responsible authority will involve other authorities if necessary.
• If your application is approved, your fingerprints, signature and a biometric photo will be taken for the production of the electronic residence permit (eAT).
• The responsible authority commissions an external body, the Federal Printing Office, to produce your eAT.
• Once your electronic residence permit (eAT) is ready, you will receive a notification and can collect it in person from the responsible office. The responsible office will contact you to schedule an appointment.
• If your application is rejected, you will receive a rejection notice stating the reasons for the rejection.

Processing time

Processing takes place directly during the appointment, provided all documents are complete. The delivery time from the Federal Printing Office for the electronic residence permit is then typically 2 to 4 weeks.

Fees

You can find out whether and how much fees will be charged from the responsible authority.

Legal remedies

• Contradiction


• Lawsuit before the Administrative Court

Legal basis

Section 38 paragraph 2 of the Residence Act (AufenthG)


Section 38 paragraph 2 of the Residence Act (AufenthG)