Visa
Residence permit (Aufenthaltserlaubnis)
German: Aufenthaltserlaubnis
Reviewed by Sajid ur Rehman— MSc Physics candidate, University of MünsterLast updated 20 July 2026
An Aufenthaltserlaubnis is a temporary residence permit issued by the local immigration office (Ausländerbehörde) after you arrive, converting your entry visa into permission to stay for study, training or work. It is time-limited and tied to your purpose of stay.
Why it matters for applicants from Pakistan, India & Bangladesh
Your entry visa is only the start — you must apply for the residence permit in Germany, and keeping it valid depends on staying enrolled or employed.
Related terms
Sources
- Make it in Germany — official government portal — German Federal Government (BMAS / BMWK) (official)
- Visas for Germany — German Federal Foreign Office (Auswärtiges Amt) (official)
Figures are checked against these sources and reviewed each application intake. Last verified: 2026-07-20. Always confirm the current rule for your case with the official source before you act.