What exactly is a Duldung?
“Duldung” literally means “toleration.” It is not a residence permit, but a temporary suspension of deportation (under § 60a of the German Residence Act). It is granted to someone who would normally be required to leave Germany, but whose deportation cannot be carried out for temporary legal or humanitarian reasons.
Types of Duldung in Germany
1. Duldung for factual reasons
Granted when deportation is not possible due to:
lack of valid travel documents,
logistical problems in the country of origin,
closed airspace or armed conflict.
This is the most common type.
2. Duldung for medical reasons
Granted if the person has a serious illness that temporarily prevents deportation.
It must be proven with precise, officially accepted medical reports.
3. Ausbildungsduldung (training-related Duldung)
Granted to those who start a recognized vocational training (Ausbildung).
Valid for the duration of the training and can be extended.
4. Beschäftigungsduldung (employment-related Duldung)
Granted to those who have been working legally for a certain period and meet specific requirements (e.g., taxes paid, no criminal record).
It may later open a pathway to a more stable residence status.
5. Duldung light (restricted Duldung)
Granted to people who do not cooperate with identity clarification or deportation procedures (e.g., hiding their identity).
Rights are severely restricted, and work or free movement may be prohibited.
Rights under a Duldung
Although it is not a residence permit, a Duldung provides certain basic rights, depending on its type:
Work: often only with permission; usually allowed under training/employment Duldung; generally not under Duldung light.
School/vocational training: possible; required for Ausbildungsduldung; often excluded under Duldung light.
Movement within Germany: often restricted; typically more permitted under training/employment Duldung; strongly restricted under Duldung light.
Social benefits: generally under AsylbLG; very limited under Duldung light.
Health care: basic coverage; may be broader in some cases.
Family reunification: generally not possible; essentially excluded under Duldung light.
Obligations while holding a Duldung
full cooperation with authorities and keeping address/data updated,
often a residence requirement (Residenzpflicht),
proving efforts to obtain travel documents or reasons why deportation is impossible,
cooperating with renewals, often issued for short periods (1–6 months).
Can a Duldung be converted into a residence permit?
Yes, in some cases a person may later apply for a formal residence permit (Aufenthaltserlaubnis) if:
they hold an Ausbildungsduldung or Beschäftigungsduldung and meet all requirements,
they have no criminal record,
they are financially self-sufficient,
they show effective integration (language, work, social participation).
When does a Duldung end?
when the obstacle to deportation ends (e.g., a passport is obtained),
if the person breaks the law or the Foreigners’ Office refuses renewal,
if asylum/protection status is granted,
if the person leaves voluntarily or is deported.
Conclusion
Even though a Duldung is not a residence permit, it can offer temporary stability—especially through training or work. Understanding its types, meeting obligations, and working toward legal stability can, in some cases, lead to a regular residence status later on.
— The website’s writers and editors aim to provide accurate information through extensive research and multiple sources. However, errors or unconfirmed information may occur. Please treat this as initial guidance and always consult the competent authorities for confirmed information.
