Niederlassungserlaubnis -
The permanent right of residence
Acquiring German citizenship offers you numerous advantages - from comprehensive rights as a German and EU citizen to long-term security and freedom of travel. We will competently guide you through the entire naturalization process, from the application to the successful granting of citizenship. Our team will be on hand to answer any questions you may have and ensure that everything runs smoothly.

The advantages of the Niederlassungserlaubnis
Permanent right of residence
The Niederlassungserlaubnis grants holders a permanent right of residence in Germany, which does not require regular renewal.
Unrestricted access to the labor market
Holders are entitled to work without restrictions throughout the country, whether as an employee or self-employed.
Facilitated family reunification
Family members of holders of a settlement permit often have a simplified right to a residence permit, which simplifies their immigration.
Free travelling in the Schengen area
You can move freely within the Schengen area without a visa for up to 90 days per six months.
Niederlassungserlaubnis - types
General Niederlassungserlaubnis, § 9 AufenthG
Niederlassungserlaubnis for highly qualified persons, § 19a AufenthG
Niederlassungserlaubnis for graduates of German universities, Section 18c Paragraph 1 of the Residence Act
Niederlassungserlaubnis for self-employed persons, Section 21 Paragraph 4 of the Residence Act
Niederlassungserlaubnis for family members, § 28 AufenthG
Interesting facts
The German settlement permit is only valid for Germany. To live or work in another EU country, you usually have to apply for a separate visa or residence permit in that country. An exception is the EU long-term residence permit, which allows you to settle in another EU country after five years of residence. However, this permit must be applied for separately.
Yes, there are certain situations in which a permanent residence permit (Niederlassungserlaubnis) can become invalid, such as if you leave Germany for an extended period (usually longer than six months) or if you commit serious criminal offenses. However, you can apply for permission from the immigration authority (Ausländerbehörde) before a planned extended stay abroad to retain your permanent residence permit.


Prerequisite for the Niederlassungserlaubnis according to § 9 AufenthG
At least five years of residence permit in Germany
To apply for a permanent settlement permit, you must prove that you have been living in Germany with a valid residence permit for at least five years.
Securing a livelihood without relying on social assistance or unemployment benefit II
You must prove that you can support yourself independently without relying on state support.
Payments into the statutory pension insurance for at least 60 months
As a rule, you must have paid into the statutory pension insurance scheme for at least 60 months.
Sufficient knowledge of German at level B1
You must provide evidence of sufficient German language skills, at least at level B1. This can also be demonstrated by school certificates or training qualifications.
Suitable living space
The living space must meet the requirements of you and your family, which means that there must be enough space and it must meet German standards.
No previous convictions
Previous convictions can negatively affect the application for citizenship, which is why proof of a clean police clearance certificate is required.
health insurance coverage
You must provide proof of existing health insurance coverage, which can be either statutory or private, to ensure that you are covered in the event of illness.