Purposes of residence

The right of permanent residence is based on the residence purposes specified in the Residence Act:

• educational
• research
• occupational (for self-employed persons and non self-employed workers)
• family reasons

As well as the above, there are also special rights of residence, e.g. the right to return and residence titles for former Germans.

Note: In exceptional circumstances, a residence permit can also be issued for a purpose of residence not specified in law.

Release note

The German original version of this text was drafted in close cooperation with the relevant departments. The Innenministerium released it on 07.07.2023. Only the German text is legally binding. The Federal State does not assume any liability for the translated texts.

In cases of doubt or if you have any questions or problems, please contact the relevant authorities directly.