Extending the residence permit during the recognition process of foreign qualifications

Who is eligible for an extension?

Extensions usually cover the following groups:

• People holding a residence permit for professional recognition purposes (§ 16d (1) AufenthG)

• Those holding a visa to search for vocational training or studies (§ 17, § 16b)

• Refugees or holders of residence permits on humanitarian grounds who are involved in procedures to recognize/equate their qualifications

• People holding Duldung or Aufenthaltsgestattung who have been accepted into a qualification program

What are the requirements to extend the residence permit?

To extend the residence permit during the recognition process, the following is generally required:

1. Proof that recognition has started or is ongoing

• An official confirmation from the recognition body (such as ZAB, Handwerkskammer, or IHK)

• A case/file number, or a letter confirming that the application is under review

2. A clear goal: working in a regulated profession in Germany
Such as: nursing, education/teaching, medicine, skilled trades, engineering

3. Ability to support yourself
Evidence that you can cover your living costs (e.g., part-time work contract, sponsor/guarantee, blocked account, etc.)

4. A clean criminal record
There should be no relevant criminal conviction in Germany that affects the decision

Suitable residence titles at this stage

1. Residence permit for qualification recognition purposes (§ 16d (1))

• Granted to those who need qualifying courses or practical training to compensate for differences

• It can be extended up to 18 months or more, depending on the need

2. Residence for qualification adjustment after an asylum rejection – via “Chancen-Aufenthaltsrecht” or a special Duldung

• If a person has a Duldung and is accepted into a qualifying program, they may be granted a residence permit (Aufenthaltserlaubnis)

Practical extension steps

• Book an appointment with the Ausländerbehörde

• Submit the following documents:

  • Passport or other proof of identity

  • Letter/receipt from the responsible recognition authority

  • Proof of financial resources

  • Proof of current accommodation (Wohnungsgeberbestätigung)

  • Contract for a qualifying measure or proof of enrollment in an adaptation course (if available)

• Receive a Fiktionsbescheinigung (temporary certificate) until the final decision is issued

What if the recognition process takes a very long time?

If the decision is delayed for many months:

• You can request an additional extension, provided you can prove ongoing communication with the responsible body

• You may start temporary programs (such as EQ or an internship/Praktikum) that strengthen your professional file

Special notes for refugees

• If you are a recognized refugee or have subsidiary protection, you can work on recognition/adjustment of qualifications without threatening your residence status

• If you are on Duldung or under a deportation suspension, you must show strong integration and a clear career plan

Conclusion

Extending your residence permit while your foreign qualifications are being recognized is legally possible and is acknowledged by most foreigners’ authorities, as long as the professional goal is clear, the correct documents are provided, and financial self-support is proven.
It is important not to wait until the last minute, but to contact the relevant authorities and local support services early, such as a Welcome Center or IQ Netzwerk, to get specialized help with recognition and residence matters.

— The website’s writers and editors aim to provide accurate information through extensive research and by consulting multiple sources. However, errors may occur or some information may remain unconfirmed. Please consider the content as initial guidance and always consult the competent authorities for confirmed and binding information.