You can apply for an extension of the residence permit if the procedure for the recognition of your foreign professional qualification is still ongoing. The recognition procedure covers the time from the submission of the application to the issuance of a recognition notice concluding the procedure by the competent recognition authority. This includes the implementation of qualification measures and subsequent examinations that are necessary for the determination of equivalence or the obtaining of the professional license.

In the event of an extension, your residence permit will be limited again. The residence permit for the recognition of the professional qualification on the basis of an agreement of the Federal Employment Agency is extended by one year at a time up to a maximum duration of three years. After three years, if you have successfully completed the recognition procedure, you can obtain a residence permit to look for a job for one year or a residence permit for another purpose of residence (e.g. to study, to complete vocational training or to work as a skilled worker)

The Federal Employment Agency must again agree to the exercise of employment in the desired occupational field. Approval is granted for a limited period of one year. This can be granted if you can prove that you continue to pursue the recognition procedure.

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