Can I get the settlement permit?

The settlement permit is the permanent right of residence — no more renewals. Four questions show whether you meet the standard requirements of Sec. 9 AufenthG.

For how long have you held a residence permit?
Do you have at least 60 months of pension contributions (mandatory or voluntary)?
Is your livelihood secured?
Do you have B1 German and basic knowledge of the legal and social order (e.g. integration course / Life-in-Germany test)?

The standard requirements are met in principle

Residence time, pension contributions, livelihood and integration proofs are in place. Sufficient housing and a clean record are also required — the authority examines each case. Applying makes sense now.

Almost — some points need clarifying

Your residence time suffices, but pension contributions, livelihood or integration proofs have open points (below). Much can be caught up or solved via exceptions — have it checked by a lawyer.

Not yet — or via a faster track

The 5 years are not yet reached. But: spouses of German citizens qualify after 3 years (Sec. 28(2)), skilled workers after 3 or 2 years (Sec. 18c(1)), and Blue Card holders after 27 or 21 months (Sec. 18c(2)) — check with a lawyer whether a faster track applies to you.

Your points at a glance

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    Also useful: Citizenship check — the next step after the settlement permit

    Also useful: Family reunification check

    Frequently Asked Questions

    It is permanent, independent of employer and purpose, and does not lapse on job loss. Renewal appointments at the foreigners authority end — and it is the stable basis before naturalisation.

    Yes: spouses of German citizens after 3 years (Sec. 28(2) AufenthG). Skilled workers after 3 years, or 2 years with a German degree (Sec. 18c(1)). EU Blue Card holders after 27 months, or 21 months with B1 German (Sec. 18c(2)). Which track applies depends on your permit.

    Partially — e.g. study periods count only half, some permits not at all. Crediting is a frequent point of dispute and worth a legal review.

    It can lapse if you stay abroad for more than 6 months (extension on application possible). Before longer stays abroad — for instance in Turkey — clarify the options in advance.

    Not legal advice. Simplified self-test based on Sec. 9 AufenthG (as of 2026) — faster tracks, crediting rules and exceptions are indicated only. The foreigners authority decides bindingly.