Source: BUS Sachsen-Anhalt (Linie6PLus)

Applying for an extension of the residence permit for the spouse to join foreigners

Description

The residence permit for spouse reunification with foreigners is a temporary residence permit. You can apply for the extension of the residence permit if you want to stay in Germany and your spouse or partner in Germany is in possession of a valid residence permit.

In principle, the same conditions apply to the extension of the residence permit as to the issue of the residence permit.

In the event of an extension, your residence permit will again be limited in time. The residence permit is extended for the period of validity of the residence permit of the spouse or partner.

As a rule, the residence permit cannot be extended if this has already been ruled out when the residence permit was issued or last extended.

If you were obliged to participate in an integration course when you first issued your residence permit, this will be taken into account when extending your residence permit. If you have not yet taken part in an integration course, the Foreigners' Registration Office may reject your application for an extension of the residence permit. If you have not yet completed the integration course, the residence permit will only be extended by one year until you successfully complete it or provide proof that your integration into social life has taken place elsewhere.

Prerequisites

You have a recognized and valid passport or passport replacement as well as the valid residence permit for family reunification in accordance with §§ 29 and 30 of the Residence Act.
The validity period of your residence permit will expire in the near future.
Your spouse or partner is in possession of a valid residence permit.
There is no interest in expulsion against you.
Your stay does not endanger or adversely affect the interests of the Federal Republic of Germany
Your livelihood is secured.
There is sufficient living space available for the whole family.

Required documents

Passport or passport replacement
Current biometric photo
Existing residence permit
Proof of livelihood
Proof of your health insurance
Lease
In case of obligation to participate in the integration course: certificate of successful participation in the integration course or other proof of integration efforts

Fees (costs)

Extension of the residence permit for the implementation of a qualification measure for the recognition of foreign professional qualifications:

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.

Deadlines

Extension of the residence permit: no later than eight weeks before the expiry of your still valid residence permit
Objection period: 1 month

Processing time

about six to eight weeks.

Responsible body

Please contact the Foreigners' Registration Office.

Applications / Forms

Forms: You can obtain authority-specific forms from your immigration office, if necessary they are also offered online.
Online procedure occasionally possible
Written form required: yes
Personal appearance required: yes

Procedure

The extension of your residence permit must be applied for at the immigration authority responsible for your place of residence.

Depending on the foreigners' registration office and concerns, it may be possible to apply via the Internet. Find out whether your immigration office offers the electronic application for a residence permit.
If the application is only possible in person, please arrange an appointment with the Foreigners' Registration Office.
During the appointment, your application will be accepted and your proofs will be checked (please bring them with you to the appointment). Your fingerprints will be taken for the issuance of the electronic residence permit (eAT).
In the event of an electronic application, the Foreigners' Registration Office will contact you after receipt of your online application in order to arrange an appointment at the Foreigners' Registration Office. During the appointment, your proofs will be checked (please bring them to the appointment) and your fingerprints will be taken for the issuance of the eAT.
If your application is granted, the Foreigners' Registration Office will arrange for the eAT to be produced.
After about six to eight weeks, you can pick up the eAT at the Foreigners' Registration Office.