EU Long-Term Residence Permit (Daueraufenthalt-EU)
Long-term residents wanting EU-wide mobility rights from their German residence.
The EU Long-Term Residence Permit (Daueraufenthalt-EU) is a German settlement & citizenship visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (~€113) and processing time (~4-8 weeks), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the EU Long-Term Residence Permit (Daueraufenthalt-EU) is for
Long-term residents wanting EU-wide mobility rights from their German residence.
Permanent status valid for moving and residing across other EU states.
EU Long-Term Residence Permit (Daueraufenthalt-EU) - eligibility criteria
- 5 years of lawful residence in Germany
- Secure livelihood for self and family
- B1 German and basic legal/social knowledge
- Adequate housing
- Sufficient pension/health provision
EU Long-Term Residence Permit (Daueraufenthalt-EU) cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the EU Long-Term Residence Permit (Daueraufenthalt-EU) (Germany) is ~€113, with an indicative processing time of ~4-8 weeks. Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at Make it in Germany / BAMF.
| Type | Permanent residence |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | Inside Germany (at the foreigners' office) |
| Length of stay | Permanent (indefinite) |
| Work rights | Unrestricted work rights |
| Study rights | Unrestricted |
| Government fee | ~€113 |
| Processing time | ~4-8 weeks |
| Route to PR | Permanent status valid for moving and residing across other EU states. |
Pathway & next steps
Permanent status valid for moving and residing across other EU states.
Many applicants also compare Niederlassung · Settlement Permit (Niederlassungserlaubnis), Fast-Track PR · Settlement Permit for Skilled Workers (Fast Track), Naturalisation · German Citizenship by Naturalisation. Run a free VisaChief check to see which German route best fits your profile, then prepare an application reviewed by a registered migration agency in our partner network.
Common EU Long-Term Residence Permit (Daueraufenthalt-EU) pitfalls we fix
EU Long-Term Residence Permit (Daueraufenthalt-EU) - frequently asked questions
How much does the EU Long-Term Residence Permit (Daueraufenthalt-EU) cost?
The EU Long-Term Residence Permit (Daueraufenthalt-EU) government fee is ~€113. Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at Make it in Germany / BAMF before applying.
How long does the EU Long-Term Residence Permit (Daueraufenthalt-EU) take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~4-8 weeks. Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the EU Long-Term Residence Permit (Daueraufenthalt-EU) lead to permanent residence?
Permanent status valid for moving and residing across other EU states.
Can I work on the EU Long-Term Residence Permit (Daueraufenthalt-EU)?
Work rights: Unrestricted work rights.
Who can apply for the EU Long-Term Residence Permit (Daueraufenthalt-EU)?
Long-term residents wanting EU-wide mobility rights from their German residence.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official Germany government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, fees and processing times change - always confirm the current rules with the issuing authority before you apply:
- Make it in Germany / BAMF - official Germany immigration authority