Local Hire Residence Permit Application under §19c Abs. 26 BeschV in Munich

Employers in Munich face growing uncertainty when applying for residence permits under specific sections of the German Employment Regulation (BeschV). Here’s what HR teams need to know about using the online form for the so-called "best friend local hire permit" (§26).
Last updated
October 27, 2025
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Munich’s residence permit process for local hires can be confusing, particularly when distinguishing between the provisions of §19c(6) and §26 BeschV. This article explains the distinction, clarifies which online form applies, and outlines the eligibility criteria employers should verify before submission.

Summary: Local Hire Residence Permit

Aspect Details
Origin Country India
Destination Country Germany
Service Type Local Hire Residence Permit (§19c Abs. 26 BeschV)
Timeline 6–10 weeks
Complexity Medium
Key Challenges Selecting correct online form between §19c Abs. 6 BeschV and §26, ensuring degree recognition, verifying professional experience, and consolidating all proofs under Einkommensnachweise.
Platform Modules Used Document validation, residence permit tracking, HR compliance dashboard

The Question

An HR manager asks whether the online form for §19c Abs. 6 BeschV can be used when applying for a local hire residence permit under §19c Abs. 26 BeschV in Munich.

The Answer

 After review, the form linked for §19c Abs. 6 BeschV is technically not the exact match for §26 BeschV, but in practice, it appears suitable for local hire submissions. If the employee meets both criteria—holding a recognized degree from their home country and having at least two years of relevant experience within the past five years—the application can proceed. All supporting documents should be consolidated under Einkommensnachweise

Munich Work Permit Application Guide

Context & Background

In Germany, local hire work permits under §26 are designed for foreign nationals already integrated into the domestic job market and holding relevant qualifications. However, Munich’s online systems primarily categorize applications under §19c(6) BeschV — a section more commonly used for general employment permits. This overlap has led many employers to question whether the same online form can be used to apply for both types of residence permits.

The Challenge

HR teams managing international hires in Munich often find inconsistencies between legal definitions and the online application pathways. The absence of a dedicated digital form for §26 applications forces employers to interpret available forms and ensure compliance with the correct legal framework.

Applicable Regulation / Detailed Explanation

While the referenced Munich online form specifies §19c(6) BeschV, it may nonetheless be used for cases that align with §26, provided eligibility criteria are met. To qualify under §26, the employee must demonstrate:

  • At least two years of relevant work experience within the past five years.
  • A university degree recognised in their home country.

Employers should ensure that submitted documentation clearly supports these criteria to avoid delays or rejections.

Employer or Talent Steps

For Employers:

  • Verify the candidate’s academic qualifications through official recognition platforms.
  • Gather proof of two years of qualified professional experience.
  • Submit the online application under §19c(6) using Munich’s digital form, noting in correspondence that the case aligns with §26 eligibility.

For Talent:

  • Prepare relevant documentation such as degree certificates and employment records.
  • Confirm that work experience matches the job being offered in Germany.

Key Learnings / Takeaways

  • Munich’s digital form formally lists §19c(6) but is currently a viable route for §26 local hire permits.
  • Clear documentation demonstrating experience and qualification equivalence is essential.
  • Close coordination between the HR team and the local immigration office increases the likelihood of a successful outcome.

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FAQs: Local Hire Residence Permit Application

Who qualifies for the §19c Abs. 26 BeschV residence permit?

This route applies to foreign professionals with a recognized degree from their home country and at least two years of relevant professional experience within the last five years.

Can HR use the same online form as §19c Abs. 6 BeschV?

Yes. In Munich, the same form is typically accepted for both categories, though the applicant must clarify the intended permit type (§19c Abs. 26 BeschV) in the submission notes.

Where should supporting documents be uploaded?

All required proofs, including degree recognition and employment verification, should be uploaded under Einkommensnachweise in the online form.

How long does processing usually take in Munich?

Processing times vary by workload but typically range between six to ten weeks after submission of a complete application.

Can the applicant start working before receiving the residence permit?

No. The talent should wait until the work and residence permit are formally issued unless explicitly authorized by the local immigration office.

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This covers the following use cases:

  • What is the difference between the §19c Abs. 6 BeschV  and §19c Abs. 26 BeschV online application forms?
  • Which documents must be submitted under Einkommensnachweise  when applying for a Munich residence permit?
  • Does a foreign employee need a recognized degree to qualify for a local hire permit in Germany?
  • How can HR verify if an employee’s home-country degree is recognized for §19c  permits?
  • What work experience requirements apply under the §19c Abs. 26 BeschV  category?
  • Can international hires in Munich apply online for the local hire residence permit?
  • How long does the processing of a §19c Abs. 26 BeschV application usually take in Munich?
  • What steps should HR follow when submitting a local hire permit via the Munich immigration portal?
  • Can an applicant start working before the §19c Abs. 26 BeschV  residence permit is approved?
  • How can HR teams in Germany apply for a local hire residence permit under §19c Abs. 26 BeschV in Munich?
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