˾

Hamburg.com IASON page

Extension of residence permit to continue studies started in another EU country

You can have your residence permit extended before its expiry to continue a course of study that you have started in another EU country if you meet certain requirements.

Use Online-Service

Detailed description

The residence permit to continue a course of study started in another EU country is a temporary residence permit. The residence permit is extended for the duration of the compulsory study period or the exchange program that is carried out in Germany.


The same requirements apply to the extension of your residence permit as for its issuance. In particular, your livelihood must be secured for the duration of your studies in Germany.


As a rule, the residence permit cannot be extended if this was already excluded when the residence permit was issued or last extended

 

Information

Prerequisites

  • You have a recognized and valid passport or passport replacement as well as a valid residence permit to continue a course of study started in another EU country in accordance with Section 16b (7) of the Residence Act.
  • The validity of your residence permit will expire in the near future.
  • There is no interest in deporting you.
  • Your stay does not endanger or impair the interests of the Federal Republic of Germany.
  • Their livelihood is secure.
  • You can provide proof of a place at university.

Documents required

  • Passport or passport replacement
  • Current biometric photo
  • Existing residence permit
  • Proof of livelihood (for example: blocked account at a German bank, scholarship certificate or declaration of commitment)
  • Proof of studies in Germany
  • Proof of your health insurance
  • rental contract

Please note

You can also get free advice on entry, residence and employment from the “Hotline Working and Living in Germany” on the Federal Government’s portal for skilled workers from abroad.


Telephone: 030 1815-1111


Service hours: Monday to Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.


Deadlines

Renewal of residence permits:


  • at least eight weeks before the expiry of your current residence permit

Procedure

You must apply for an extension of your residence permit at the immigration office responsible for your place of residence.

  • Depending on the immigration authority and the matter, it may be possible to apply online. Find out whether your immigration authority offers electronic application for a residence permit.
  • If the application can only be submitted in person, arrange an appointment with the immigration authorities.
  • During the appointment, your application will be accepted and your documents will be checked (please bring these with you to the appointment). Your fingerprints will be taken to issue the electronic residence permit (eAT).
  • If you submit your application electronically, the immigration authorities will contact you after receiving your online application to arrange an appointment at the immigration authorities. During the appointment, your documents will be checked (please bring these with you to the appointment) and your fingerprints will be taken for the issuance of the eAT card.
  • If your application is approved, the immigration authorities will arrange for the eAT card to be produced.
  • After about six to eight weeks you can collect your eAT card from the immigration office.

Processing time

The processing time usually takes 6 to 8 weeks and also depends on the completeness of the customer's documents. If documents are missing, the processing time will be extended.


It takes about 4 to 6 weeks for the Federal Printing Office to produce the electronic residence permit.

Fees


  • for a further stay of up to three months: EUR 96

  • for a further stay of more than three months: EUR 93


Under certain conditions, a fee reduction or fee exemption may be considered.

Legal remedies

An appeal against the negative decision can be lodged with the authority within one month of notification.

Legal basis




Find out your responsible facility

Angaben zur Zuständigkeit
Bitte geben Sie hier die Wohnanschrift mit Straße und Hausnummer an

Haven't found the right one yet?

To Hamburg Service startpage

Keywords: Education residence permit Renewal of residence permits Educational institution § 8 (1) Residence Act (AufenthG) § 16b (7) Residence Act (AufenthG)

Last updated: 07.09.2025