As a general rule, a visa must be applied for at the competent mission abroad before entering Germany. Nationals from Australia, Israel, Japan, Canada, the Republic of Korea, New Zealand and the USA can also apply for the residence permit after entry at the competent Foreigners' Authority in Germany. The intended gainful employment may only be taken up after the corresponding residence permit has been issued. The Central Placement Office [Zentrale Auslands- und Fachvermittlung - ZAV] of the Federal Employment Agency with its regional offices is also responsible for approving residence permits. It is called in internally by the Foreigners' Authority when the residence permit is issued.
In addition to the visa for entry and subsequent short-term stay, the residence permit is issued as: Residence permit, Blue Card – EU, Settlement Permit or Permit for Permanent Residence-EU.
The residence permit is temporary. It is issued for individuals who
- would like to complete an apprenticeship/training or work in Germany,
- can stay in Germany for reasons of international law, humanitarian or political reasons,
- immigrate to Germany for family reasons,
- are foreigners and former Germans who want to return to Germany, or
- have a permanent right of residence in another Member State of the European Union.
A residence permit can be extended. In this case, account must be taken of whether someone has properly participated in an integration course.