Short-term mobility (up to 180 days within 360 days)

The §18e of the German Residence Act (AufenthG) regulates the short-term mobility of researchers who have a residence permit issued by another EU member state. residence permit for the purpose of research in accordance with Directive (EU) 2016/801 have a residence permit. In these cases, a German residence permit is not required. This applies to stays of up to 180 days within a period of 360 days.

A notification procedure for short-term mobility, which is provided by the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees is carried out. The notification must be received in full before entry.

Long-term mobility (180 days to one year)

In cases where researchers already hold a residence permit from another EU member state for the purpose of research, which was issued within the scope of Directive (EU) 2016/801, and they wish to carry out part of their research project in Germany for a period of more than 180 days and a maximum of one year - so-called long-term mobility of researchers - the issue of a residence permit according to §18f AufenthG may be considered.

The application for a residence permit in accordance with Section 18f AufenthG can be submitted to the responsible foreigners authority as well as at the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees. If the application is submitted to the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees receives the application and forwards it to the responsible immigration authority.

In addition to the residence permit issued by the first EU country for research purposes and in accordance with the REST Directive, the following documents must be submitted:

• recognized, valid passport/passport replacement
• Hosting agreement
• Contract with the host research institution
• Proof of means of subsistence including proof of health insurance.

• Residence Act
• Directive (EU) 2016/801
• Federal Office for Migration and Refugees
• §18f Residence Act