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PR: the General Requirements (§ 9 AufenthG)
The standard path: 5 years on a residence permit (skilled workers: 3 years), 60 months of pension contributions, German B1, secure livelihood.
✓ Verified: 17/07/2026
WHAT TO DO
AUTHORITY
Ausländerbehörde (ABH)
Municipal authorityThe Ausländerbehörde for your registered address is the one responsible. Enter your postcode and we will show yours.
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› Details and tips
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Max recommends:
I assembled proof of 60 contribution months from the pension statement before applying: this criterion fails most often due to gaps in the early part-time years.
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Lea recommends:
B1 and the Life in Germany test for settlement are the same as for citizenship. Taken once, the certificates serve both — no need to retake.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
The general route to settlement — how many years? ▾
Under § 9 usually 5 years with a permit, plus 60 months of pension contributions, self-support, B1, housing, the Life in Germany test. Blue Card and spouses of Germans go faster.
The 60 pension months — mandatory? ▾
For the general § 9 route yes, the core criterion. Self-employed periods with voluntary contributions count too; check your history at the pension insurer in advance.
Studied in Germany — do the study years count? ▾
Partly: study and part of training periods are credited with factors. The office does the exact calculation — bring enrolment and work evidence.
Does university time count? ▾
For PR, study time counts half: a 4-year bachelor adds 2 years of residence time.
What does secure livelihood mean? ▾
Stable income without welfare benefits. Kindergeld and Elterngeld do not hurt — they are not welfare.
I am a skilled worker — what is my period? ▾
3 years on a § 18a/b permit and 36 contribution months (§ 18c(1)). Graduates of German universities: 2 years after the degree.