Do you need a permanent residence permit in Germany?

As a Bulgarian citizen, you do not need to obtain a permanent residence permit (Niederlassungserlaubnis) to live and work in Germany. Bulgaria is a member of the European Union (EU) and as an EU citizen you have the right to freedom of movement and residence within the EU.

Registration of residence

EU citizens have the right to reside in Germany for a longer period of time without the need for a separate residence permit. However, if you plan to stay in Germany for longer than three months, you are required to register your residence at the local registration office (Einwohnermeldeamt) and obtain a registration certificate (Anmeldebescheinigung). This certificate confirms your legal residence in Germany and is usually issued after the registration process is completed.

PLEASE NOTE! Although you do not need a permanent residence permit as an EU citizen, you may still need to fulfill certain administrative requirements in Germany, such as health insurance, tax obligations, and compliance with any specific registration requirements set by local authorities.

The following persons are eligible to apply for a family residence permit in Germany

Spouse or registered partner of a German citizen/resident.

Unmarried and minor child of a German citizen/resident.

Parents/legal guardians of an unmarried, minor German citizen.

PLEASE NOTE, if you are a citizen of one of the following countries, you do not need to obtain a residence permit to join your family members. You only need to register with the German authorities upon arrival:

• countries of the European Union
• Countries of the European Economic Area
• Australia
• Canada
• Israel
• Japan
• New Zealand
• Republic of South Korea
• United States of America

If you are not a citizen of any of the countries listed above, you will first need a visa to Germany. Remember that you cannot apply for a residence permit if you are entering Germany with a tourist or other type of visa.

As a Bulgarian citizen, you do not need to obtain a Blue Card (Blaue Karte EU) to work and live in Germany. The Blue Card is a residence permit intended for highly qualified non-EU nationals who wish to work in Germany. However, as an EU citizen, you have the right to work and live in Germany in accordance with the principle of freedom of movement for workers.

Germany has implemented various measures to grant residence permits to refugees seeking asylum in the country. The residence permit for refugees in Germany is commonly known as the "Aufenthaltserlaubnis" or "Asylbewerberleistungsgesetz" (Asylum Seekers Act).

Stages of obtaining a residence permit for refugees

1. Arrival and registration

Upon arrival in Germany, refugees must undergo a registration procedure with the relevant authorities: it involves providing personal information such as name, date of birth, country of origin and reasons for seeking asylum.

2. Application for asylum

Refugees must submit an asylum application to the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees (Bundesamt für Migration und Flüchtlinge - BAMF). This application is considered in order to determine the right to international protection. It is very important to provide detailed information and supporting evidence about the reasons for seeking asylum.

3. Interview and documentation

After submitting an asylum application, refugees are usually invited to an interview at the migration office. During the interview, they will have the opportunity to explain their situation in more detail. The interview is conducted by an employee of the BAMF or an authorized representative. The information provided during the interview is documented and taken into account in the decision-making process.

4. Initial decision

Based on the asylum application and the interview, the migration office makes an initial decision on refugee status. This decision may lead to one of several outcomes: refugee recognition, subsidiary protection, humanitarian protection, or refusal of refugee status. The decision is communicated to the refugee in writing.

5. Residence permit

If a refugee has been granted protection (refugee recognition, subsidiary protection or humanitarian protection), he or she is entitled to a residence permit. The specific type of residence permit depends on the status of protection and the duration of the protection granted. A temporary residence permit allows refugees to legally stay in Germany for a specified period of time.

Integration activities

In addition to the residence permit, Germany offers various integration measures to support refugees in the process of adaptation and settlement. These measures include language courses, vocational training, employment assistance and social support services. The aim is to facilitate the integration of refugees into German society and help them to rebuild their lives.

Extension of a residence permit

A temporary residence permit for refugees is usually granted for a limited period of time, which depends on the protection status granted. Prior to the expiration of the residence permit, refugees must apply for its extension if they are still in need of international protection. The extension process involves the submission of updated information and documents confirming the continued need for protection.

How to obtain German citizenship?

In order to apply for German citizenship, you must clearly understand whether you have legal grounds for doing so. These include:

• Marriage to a German citizen;
• They were born in Germany;
• If you have German roots;
• If the foreigner is Jewish;
• As a result of many years of living in the country.

Marriage to a German citizen

If you are married to a German citizen, you are eligible to apply for German citizenship. As a rule, you must have been married for at least two years and have lived in Germany for at least three years. However, the residence requirement can be reduced to two years if you have successfully completed an integration course (or to one year in exceptional cases). It is important to note that divorce before the end of the required period may affect your eligibility for the program.

Born in Germany

If you were born on or after January 1, 2000, in Germany and your parents have lived in Germany for at least eight years at the time of your birth, you are a German citizen by birth. If only one parent has lived in Germany for at least eight years, he or she must have a valid residence permit.

German roots (origin)

If you can prove that you have German ancestors, such as parents or grandparents, you may be eligible for German citizenship by descent (Recht des Blutes). This process usually requires the provision of documents such as birth certificates, passports and other relevant records to establish your family connection to Germany.

Recognition of Jewish identity

Persons who can prove that they or their ancestors were victims of National Socialist persecution because of their Jewish origin may be eligible for German citizenship under Article 116(2) of the German Basic Law. This provision allows for the restoration of citizenship to those who were deprived of it during the Nazi era.

How many years do I need to live in Germany to apply for citizenship?

Unless otherwise provided by law and there are no problems, after eight years of continuous residence in the country, you can apply for citizenship. The grounds are:

• Niederlassungserlaubnis is an indefinite residence permit;
• Blue Card EU - Blue Card for highly qualified specialists in their field;
• Aufenthaltserlaubnis is a temporary permit.

You must meet all the requirements listed below:

• Good knowledge of German;
• Respect and recognition of the values of the state enshrined in the Constitution;
• Renouncing his citizenship in favor of German;
• The level of income that will allow you to provide for yourself and your family if you do not receive social benefits;
• Successfully passing the citizenship test;
• No criminal record;
• When applying for citizenship, you must have a valid residence permit.

Possibility of Ermessenseinsbürgerung - granting citizenship at the discretion

In exceptional cases, even if all the points are not met, a foreigner may be granted citizenship at the discretion of the state. This applies to those non-residents who are of interest to Germany. These can be artists, scientists or high-tech workers. In any case, the state must be willing to grant citizenship to this person. But the minimum requirements must still be met.

One of the requirements for obtaining German citizenship is the renunciation of previous citizenship;

To begin with, you need to find out where the office dealing with foreign nationals is located. In Germany, it is generally called the Einbürgerungsbehörde, but the names may differ from city to city. To find out where to bring your documents, you can contact one of the local offices:

• The Ausländerbehörde has a department for non-residents;
• The Jugendmigrationsdienste has information centers for young people;
• Migrationsberatung für erwachsene Zuwanderer - information centers for adults;
• In local governments.

Required documents

• Application form (Antrag auf Einbürgerung). If it was not filled out during the interview, it should be filled out and submitted with the package of documents;
• A copy of all pages of the passport with stamps;
• A copy of a document proving that you have a residence permit in Germany;
• The applicant's birth certificate;
• Documents on marital status as of today and documents confirming its change throughout time;
• Certificate of no criminal record (Führungszeugnis);
• Confirmation of the family's financial situation in the form of certificates, bank statements;
• Autobiography;
• Receipt for payment of the fee € 190;
• Proof of German language proficiency;
• Results of the citizenship exam.

Mandatory payments include:

The fee for processing an application for citizenship is 255 euros. 190 euros are paid at the time of submission of documents and are not refundable even in case of refusal. And if the decision is positive, you need to pay an additional 65 euros;

If the documents are drawn up for a person under the age of 16, the fee is 51 euros.

Can a foreigner be denied citizenship?

Of course, such a possibility exists. But most often, the reason is the applicants themselves, who have violated one or more important points, for example:

• Providing false information;
• Submission of an incomplete package of documents;
• Incorrectly filled out documents, making mistakes;
• Providing forged documents;
• Violation of German law in the process of processing the application.

Citizenship by naturalization in Germany is a process by which foreigners can acquire German citizenship. Naturalization is available to persons who meet certain requirements set out in the German Nationality Act (Staatsangehörigkeitsgesetz).

The right to naturalization

In order to be eligible for naturalization, you must generally meet the following criteria:

1. Residence requirement. You must legally reside in Germany for a certain period of time, which is usually eight years. However, this period can be reduced to seven years if you have successfully completed an integration course (or to six years in exceptional cases, such as special integration efforts or language skills).

2. Good behavior. You must demonstrate good behavior, i.e., no serious criminal offenses and no criminal record.

3. Sufficient income and financial stability. You must prove that you have a reliable livelihood without relying on social assistance.

4. Knowledge of the German language. You must demonstrate a sufficient level of German language proficiency by passing a language test, which usually consists of written and oral components. Exceptions exist for persons who have physical or mental disabilities that prevent them from fulfilling this requirement.

5. Knowledge of German society, legal system and living conditions. You are required to have knowledge of the legal system, society and living conditions in Germany. This knowledge is assessed through the naturalization test, which covers various topics related to Germany.

6. Renunciation of previous citizenship(s). Germany requires renunciation of previous nationality(ies) when acquiring German citizenship. However, there are exceptions for persons from countries that do not allow or require renunciation of citizenship, or for persons who would face significant difficulties if they renounced their previous citizenship.

Submitting an application for naturalization 

1. Application and documents

If you meet the requirements, you can apply for naturalization at the local naturalization office (Einbürgerungsbehörde) or immigration office (Ausländerbehörde) in your region. The application usually requires various documents, such as proof of residence, identity documents, birth certificate, marriage certificate (if applicable), language proficiency certificates, and proof of income or financial stability.

2. Processing and solutions

Once you submit your application, the Office of Naturalization will review your case. They may conduct background checks, interviews, and verify the authenticity of your documents. If your application is approved, you will receive a naturalization certificate (Einbürgerungsurkunde).

3. Oath of Allegiance

As part of the naturalization process, you must take an oath of allegiance to the German Constitution and the principles of a democratic and social state.

Dual citizenship

Germany does not encourage dual citizenship. However, it does allow exceptions for certain cases, such as for citizens of EU countries or countries with which it has concluded relevant bilateral agreements. It is important to consult the relevant authorities to understand the rules and consequences of dual citizenship.

If you are planning to immigrate to Germany, here are some tips and tricks to help you navigate the process more efficiently:

1. Begin by thoroughly researching the immigration requirements, visa types, and residence permits that apply to your situation. Understand the specific conditions, documentation, and processes involved in the process. Create a clear plan and timeline to guide you through your immigration journey.

2. Learning German is crucial for successful integration into German society. Invest time and effort in improving your language skills before you arrive in Germany. Take advantage of language courses and resources available in your home country or online.

3. Research the German labor market and find out the demand for your skills and qualifications. Make sure that your education, work experience and professional qualifications meet the requirements of the German labor market. Consider having your foreign qualifications recognized or evaluated by the relevant authorities in Germany.

4. Calculate your expected expenses and create a financial plan to support yourself during the initial stages of immigration. Consider the cost of living, accommodation, healthcare, transportation and other necessary expenses. Research potential sources of financial support, such as scholarships, grants, or funding programs available to immigrants.

5. Familiarize yourself with German culture, customs and social norms. Understanding and respecting cultural differences will make your integration into German society easier. Consider participating in integration courses offered by the German authorities to learn about German laws, values and society.

6. Identify local resources and support services available to immigrants in Germany. These may include language schools, employment agencies, community centers, and cultural associations. These resources can provide guidance, support, and valuable information to help you with your integration process:

• Many cities in Germany have Welcome Centers (Willkommenszentren) or Integration Centers (Integrationszentren). These centers provide information, counseling and integration courses for immigrants. Integration courses usually include language training, an introduction to German society and culture, and help in navigating everyday life in Germany.
• Numerous volunteer organizations and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in Germany work to support immigrants. These organizations offer a range of services, such as language tutoring, integration programs, counseling, legal assistance and social support. Examples of such organizations include Caritas, Diaconia, the Red Cross and local refugee assistance groups.
• Several online platforms and portals provide comprehensive information and resources for immigrants in Germany. Websites such as the "Make it in Germany" website (www.make-it-in-germany.com) and the "Federal Office for Migration and Refugees" (www.bamf.de), offer information on various topics, including visa requirements, employment opportunities, integration programs and life in Germany.

7. Stay informed about changes in German immigration policy, laws and regulations. Regularly visit official government websites, subscribe to newsletters and follow reliable sources of information to stay informed of any updates or changes that may affect your immigration plans:

1) The Federal Ministry of the Interior, Building and Housing (Bundesministerium des Innern, für Bau und Heimat). The ministry's website (www.bmi.bund.de) contains information on immigration and integration policy, asylum procedures, and relevant laws and regulations. Resources are available in several languages, including English.

2) The Federal Office for Migration and Refugees (Bundesamt für Migration und Flüchtlinge - BAMF). The BAMF website offers information on asylum procedures, residence permits, integration courses and language requirements. Forms and brochures can also be downloaded here.

3) Local Aliens Office (Ausländerbehörde). Every city or region in Germany has a local foreigners' office that is responsible for immigration matters. By visiting their official website or contacting them directly, you will receive information on residence permits, visa applications and local regulations specific to the region.

4) Information and counseling centers for migrants. These centers, known as Migrationsberatungsstellen, are located throughout Germany and provide information, advice and support to immigrants. They can offer advice on immigration law, integration measures, language courses and social services. You can find the nearest center in your area by searching online or by contacting your local municipal office.

5) Online forums and communities. Participating in online forums and communities dedicated to immigration and life in Germany can give you valuable information about immigration and life in Germany. Platforms such as Toytown Germany (www.toytowngermany.com) or Expat.com (www.expat.com) have active forums where people share their experiences, ask questions and give advice on various immigration-related topics.