As 2025 comes to a close, it’s the perfect time for newcomers and long-term residents in Germany to review their immigration goals — especially those seeking stability, security, and long-term settlement in Europe.
One of the most valuable milestones you can achieve is obtaining the Permanent EU Residence Permit (Daueraufenthalt-EU).
This status not only allows you to live and work in Germany permanently but also provides mobility within the European Union, making it an essential step for anyone planning to build their future in Europe.
Whether you arrived this year for work, study, or family reasons — this guide will help you recall the eligibility criteria, process, and benefits of applying for the Permanent EU Residence Permit in 2025.
What Is a Permanent EU Residence Permit?
The Permanent EU Residence Permit is a long-term residence title granted to non-EU nationals who have legally lived in an EU country (such as Germany) for several years.
It allows you not only to live and work in Germany permanently but also to move and work in other EU countries under certain conditions.
This makes it more flexible than the standard German Settlement Permit (Niederlassungserlaubnis), which is valid only within Germany.
Key Benefits of a Permanent EU Residence Permit
✅ Unlimited residence in Germany
✅ Freedom to work or start a business
✅ Mobility within the European Union (you can live or work in another EU country under simplified procedures)
✅ Equal access to education, social security, and healthcare
✅ Pathway toward German or EU citizenship in the future
Eligibility Requirements (as of 2025)
To qualify for the Permanent EU Residence Permit in Germany, you must meet several criteria:
1. Minimum Stay Requirement
You must have lived legally in Germany for at least five consecutive years with a residence title.
2. Stable and Regular Income
You should be able to prove that you can support yourself and your family without relying on public funds. Employment contracts, payslips, or business income proofs are accepted.
3. Adequate Living Space
A suitable apartment or housing arrangement is required for yourself and any dependents living with you.
4. Health Insurance Coverage
Having statutory or private health insurance that covers all health-related expenses is mandatory.
5. Basic Knowledge of German Language (A2 or higher)
You must demonstrate basic proficiency in German, typically at least A2 level according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).
6. Knowledge of German Legal and Social Order
You should have a general understanding of Germany’s legal system, social order, and living conditions, usually proven by completing an integration course.
7. No Criminal Record
Applicants must have no serious criminal offenses or ongoing investigations in Germany.
Difference Between Permanent EU Residence and Settlement Permit
Feature
Settlement Permit (Niederlassungserlaubnis)
Permanent EU Residence (Daueraufenthalt-EU)
Validity
Unlimited stay in Germany only
Unlimited stay in Germany + mobility within EU
Mobility Rights
Cannot move freely within the EU
Can move/work in other EU countries (under conditions)
Eligibility
Usually 5 years in Germany
5 years in EU (with at least last 5 in Germany)
Language Requirement
B1 level (usually)
A2 level (minimum)
Citizenship Pathway
Eligible for German citizenship
Eligible as well
Can Time in Other EU Countries Count?
Yes — if you have lived in different EU countries (with legal residence titles), that time may partially count toward your five-year requirement. However, you must have lived in Germany for at least the last five years continuously before applying there.
How to Apply for a Permanent EU Residence Permit
Step 1: Collect Required Documents
Valid passport
Current residence permit
Proof of income (salary slips, tax returns)
Rental agreement or proof of housing
Health insurance certificate
Language certificate (A2 or higher)
Integration course certificate (if applicable)
Step 2: Submit Application
You must apply at your local Foreigners’ Authority (Ausländerbehörde) in Germany.
Step 3: Pay the Application Fee
The standard fee is €109 (as of 2025), though it can vary slightly by region.
Step 4: Wait for Approval
Processing can take a few weeks to a few months, depending on your local immigration office’s workload.
Reasons for Rejection
Your application may be refused if:
You do not meet the income or language requirements
You have pending criminal charges
Your residence status was interrupted during the five-year period
You rely on government assistance for living expenses
If this happens, you have the right to appeal or reapply after fulfilling the missing criteria.
Losing the Permanent EU Residence Permit
The permit can be revoked if:
You leave the EU for more than 12 consecutive months
You obtained it through false information
You pose a threat to public security or order
However, shorter absences (under 12 months) usually do not affect your status.
Why Choose Jaberi Lawyers
At Jaberi Lawyers, we specialise in German immigration and residency law and have successfully guided numerous clients toward achieving permanent residence and citizenship.
Whether you are a professional, a student, or a family planning to settle in Germany — our multilingual legal team ensures your application is handled with precision and compliance with the latest regulations.
Let us handle the legal complexities while you focus on building your future in Europe.
Contact Us
Jaberi Lawyers – Where Immigration Meets Expertise
📍 Headquarters: Afrikahaus Große Reichenstraße 27, 20457 Hamburg
📞 +49 (0)40 413 499 87
📧 contact@jaberilawyers.com
📍 Branch Office: Große Gallusstraße 14, 60315 Frankfurt am Main
📞 +49 (0)69 989 727 302
🌐 www.jaberilawyers.com
