Guide to Getting a Residence Permit Appointment in Germany

If you’re an international student planning to stay in Germany for more than 90 days, you’ll need a residence permit (Aufenthaltstitel). One of the most important steps is securing an appointment at your local Foreigners’ Office (Ausländerbehörde). Because these appointments can be difficult to get, it’s best to start the process early.

Why You Need a Residence Permit in Germany and When to Start Applying

A German residence permit is more than just paperwork—it’s your ticket to living, studying, and working legally in Germany. As an international student, a valid permit allows you to:

• Access health insurance
• Open a bank account smoothly
• Sign rental contracts without complications
• Travel freely within the Schengen Area
• Work part-time (up to 120 full days or 240 half days per year) without risking your status
  -time (up to 120 full days or 240 half days per year) without risking your status.

When to Start the Application

Schedule your appointment at the Ausländerbehörde as soon as you receive your student visa or admission letter—ideally 8–12 weeks before your three-month entry visa expires. Appointments can fill up fast, so planning ahead prevents stress or fines for overstaying.

Once in Germany:

1. Register your address at the local Bürgeramt within two weeks.
2. Collect your registration certificate (Anmeldebestätigung).
3. Bring it to your residence permit appointment.

What You’ll Need

The application fee is usually around €100, and you’ll need documents like your passport, university enrollment letter, proof of health insurance, and proof of sufficient funds (e.g., a blocked account statement). Keep copies ready and arrive a bit earlier on the day of your appointment.

When to Book Your Appointment

As soon as you arrive in Germany, ideally within the first 2–3 weeks.
Some cities (like Berlin, Munich, Frankfurt) are very busy, so slots may be booked out months in advance.
You can apply up to __90 days before your visa expires.

Where to Book an Appointment

Appointments are booked through the Ausländerbehörde (Foreigners’ Office) in your city.
Each city has its own online portal; for example:

• Berlin: Service Portal Berlin
• Munich: Munich Foreigners’ Office
• Frankfurt: Frankfurt City Portal

If no slots are available online, try calling or visiting the office in person.

Required Documents for the Appointment

Prepare these before your appointment (varies slightly by city):

• Valid passport
• Biometric passport photos
• Proof of university enrollment (Immatrikulationsbescheinigung)
• Proof of financial means (blocked account, scholarship, or sponsorship)
• Proof of health insurance (mandatory in Germany)
• Rental contract or registration (Meldebescheinigung)
• Completed application form (from the office’s website)
• Application fee: usually €100 for students

Step-by-Step Process

1. Register your address (Anmeldung): within 14 days of moving into your accommodation.
2. Book your appointment: via your city’s online portal or by phone.
3. Gather documents: double-check requirements on your city’s website.
4. Attend the appointment: arrive early with originals and copies.
5. Receive residence permit card (eAT): this can take 4–8 weeks after your appointment.

Tips to Get an Appointment Faster

• Check the portal daily: new slots often open early in the morning.
• Contact student services at your university: they sometimes have priority booking links.
• Book in smaller towns nearby: if your city is fully booked, try offices in smaller districts.
• Show proof of urgency: if your visa is about to expire, visit in person with documents ready.

Conclusion

Getting a residence permit appointment in Germany requires planning, patience, and persistence. Book early, prepare your documents carefully, and don’t hesitate to ask your university’s international office for help. With the right preparation, you’ll secure your appointment and get your residence permit without stress.