How to Extend Residence Permit in Berlin: A Step-by-Step Guide (2026 latest)

How to Extend Residence Permit in Berlin (Aufenthaltstitel Verlängern Berlin):  2026

Extending the residence permit in Berlin is essential for non-EU/EEA nationals wishing to continue living, working, or studying in Germany’s capital. Managed by the Berlin Immigration Office (Landesamt für Einwanderung, LEA), the process is primarily digital through an online application system. Certain permit types may have specific variations—always check the official LEA website for the latest details or consult an immigration expert.

Who Is Eligible for Residence Permit Extension?

Eligibility for Aufenthaltstitel Verlängern Berlin depends on the current residence permit type and continued alignment with its original purpose. Common categories include:

• Students: Still enrolled in a recognized course at a university or equivalent institution.
• Skilled Workers: Employed with a job offer or contract meeting updated salary thresholds (see below).
• EU Blue Card Holders: Employed with a recognized university degree and meeting the 2026 salary thresholds.
• Family Reunification: Spouses, children, or partners of German citizens or residents with valid permits, requiring proof of relationship and cohabitation.
• Long-Term EU Residents: Holders of a “permanent residence EU” permit from another EU state (excluding the UK, Denmark, Ireland), with secure livelihood.
• Hardship Cases: Individuals granted permits under Section 23a of the Residence Act, often requiring economic activity or humanitarian grounds.

Documents Needed for Berlin Residence Permit Extension

The required documents (subject to change) include:

General Documents

• Application Form: “Antrag auf Erteilung eines Aufenthaltstitels” (available in multiple languages).
• Valid Passport: Color scan of data page with photo and personal details.
• Biometric Photo: Use digital biometric photos with QR code (rules effective since May 1, 2025, remain in place in 2026—photos must be from certified providers; printed backups or self-service terminals at LEA may be options). Avoid printed photos without QR if possible.
• Proof of Address: Registration certificate (Meldebestätigung) or landlord confirmation (Wohnungsgeberbestätigung).
• Health Insurance Proof: Electronic health card or recent confirmation from a German provider.
• Financial Proof:
  • Employees: Employment contract, recent salary statements, and certificate of employment (not older than 14 days).
  • Students: Blocked account statement or scholarship proof.
  • Self-employed: Income documents, tax assessments, or business registration.

Purpose-Specific Documents

• Students: Enrollment certificate or study forecast.
• Workers: Job contract, job description form (“Erklärung zum Beschäftigungsverhältnis”), and proof of qualification recognition if applicable.
• Family Reunification: Marriage certificate, proof of cohabitation, or birth certificates (translated with apostille if needed).
• Language Certificates: If required (e.g., B1 for permanent residency paths).
• Lease Agreement: Proof of sufficient living space.

Bring originals to any in-person appointment. Foreign documents often need authenticated translations or apostilles.

Step-by-Step Process

The process is digital, with an in-person appointment typically for biometrics:

1. Register your address at a Bürgeramt within 14 days of moving to Berlin.
2. Secure German health insurance and gather financial proof.
3. Prepare documents in the correct format.
4. Submit Online Application:
   • Access the LEA’s online portal.
   • Complete the form, upload documents, and pay the fee (via Visa, Mastercard, or PayPal).
   • Save the confirmation PDF—it extends validity until your appointment.
5. Wait for Review: LEA reviews and may request more via email (check spam).
6. Attend Appointment: If needed/approved, receive email for Keplerstraße 2, 10589 Berlin. Bring originals; pay any additional fees. (Note: Public self-booking portal decommissioned in 2026—appointments often allocated post-submission.)
7. Receive Permit: Electronic residence permit (eAT card) issued within 4–8 weeks post-appointment.

Tip: Apply 4–8 weeks (or up to 4 months max in some cases) before expiry to avoid issues.

Salary Levels for Work-Related Permits (2026 Updates)

Minimum gross annual salary thresholds (effective January 1, 2026):

• Standard Professions: €50,700.
• Shortage Occupations: €45,934.20 (e.g., scientists, engineers, IT specialists, medical professionals).
• Recent Graduates (within 3 years): €45,934.20.
• EU Blue Card: €50,700 (or €45,934.20 for shortage occupations/recent graduates).
• Over 45 (First-Time Applicants): Higher thresholds or proof of adequate pension provision.

Salaries must cover living costs and align with German workers in similar roles.

Processing Time for Aufenthaltstitel Verlängern Berlin

• Initial Review: 3–8 weeks after submission.
• Post-Appointment: 4–8 weeks for eAT issuance.
• Total: 10–16 weeks (varies; urgent cases prioritized via contact form).

If over 3 months, contact LEA or an immigration lawyer. Permit remains valid during processing if applied timely.

Fees for Berlin Permit Extension

Fees (unchanged from recent years; verify on LEA site):

• Standard Extension:
  • Adults: €93
  • Minors: €46.50
• First Issuance:
  • Adults: €100
  • Minors: €50
• Turkish Nationals:
  • Under 24: €22.80
  • 24+: €37
• Permanent Settlement Permit: €113
• In-Person Appointment Fee: €18.50 (if applicable)

Paid online or at appointment (cash/EC/Visa/Mastercard). Non-refundable (exceptions for some students).

Important Additional Information

• Travel Restrictions: No travel abroad after expiry without Fiktionsbescheinigung (request via LEA form if applied timely; consult for re-entry risks).
• Family Members: Include in application; LEA requests documents.
• Changing Jobs: Notify LEA; EU Blue Card allows 6 months to find new job.
• Permanent Residency: After 2–5 years (21–33 months for Blue Card with B1 German), qualify for settlement permit. Requires 60 months pension contributions (standard), B1 German, and "Life in Germany" test knowledge (mandatory in Berlin since late 2024, unchanged in 2026; A1 allowed in some accelerated cases).
• Schengen Visa Limitation: Cannot extend/convert to residence permit—apply abroad if needed.
• Lost/Stolen Documents: Report to embassy; contact LEA for replacement.

Always cross-check the official LEA website (berlin.de/einwanderung/en) for real-time updates, as rules can evolve. Professional advice is recommended for complex cases.

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Disclaimer:

Immigration laws and policies change frequently and may vary by country or nationality. While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, we recommend doing your own due diligence or consulting official sources. You’re also welcome to contact us directly for the latest guidance. Jobbatical is not responsible for decisions made based on the information provided.