Counting periods of university study before 2015 towards lawful residence

Counting university study periods before 2015 as part of legal residence in Germany

In the context of naturalisation applications in Germany, determining the duration of legal residence is a key element in assessing eligibility. University study periods can, in principle, be counted as part of the legal residence period if certain conditions are met. However, important legal changes around 2015 have affected how these study periods are taken into account.

Legal status of study periods before 2015

Before 2015, the periods that foreign students spent in Germany for the purpose of university studies were generally regarded as lawful residence when calculating the residence period required for naturalisation.
This means that people who studied at German universities before 2015 can usually have those years counted towards their total legal residence period.

Changes after 2015

Following amendments to the Residence Act (Aufenthaltsgesetz), study periods are no longer automatically included. They are often only taken into account if additional requirements are met, for example:

• Applying for a residence permit after graduation for the purpose of job search or employment.

• Demonstrating effective integration into German society (language skills, employment, stable housing).

Conditions for counting study periods before 2015

Valid residence permit for studies
During the relevant period, the student must have held a valid residence permit explicitly issued for the purpose of studying.

Continuity of residence
There must not have been significant interruptions or phases of unlawful or irregular residence during the study period.

Submission of official documents
In practice, the following documents are commonly used as proof:

• University enrolment certificates and confirmations of study,

• Copies of residence permits issued at the time,

• Other official documents that show the duration and purpose of the stay.

Advice for former students who studied before 2015

• Collect all documents that prove your study period and your residence status during your studies.

• Consult your local immigration or nationality office to clarify whether and to what extent your study period can be counted as legal residence for naturalisation.

• If your situation is complex, it is advisable to seek support from a specialised immigration lawyer.

Conclusion

University study periods spent in Germany before 2015 are generally counted as part of the legal residence period required for naturalisation, provided that you held a valid residence permit for studies and your stay was continuously lawful. Understanding these rules and preparing your documentation carefully will help you assert your rights correctly and may accelerate the naturalisation process.

The editorial and writing team of the website strives to provide accurate information based on thorough research and consultation of multiple sources. Nevertheless, errors may occur or some information may not be fully verified. Therefore, the information in these articles should be regarded as an initial reference only, and you should always contact the competent authorities to obtain binding and up-to-date information.