Procedure
The settlement permit must be applied for before your current residence permit expires.
If you are under 18 years of age, you may not submit the application yourself, but need a representative (usually the application is submitted by the parents with custody).
Find out whether the responsible immigration authority allows you to submit your application online or whether it has a special application form.
If the application can only be submitted in person, make an appointment at the immigration office. If you apply online, the immigration office will contact you after receiving the application to make an appointment.
If you are under 18 years of age, you must be accompanied by at least one legal representative (usually a parent) when you appear in person. If you have joint custody, the parents must appear together at the authority and submit the application on your behalf. If one parent cannot appear in person, the other parent with custody must issue a written authorization to submit the application.
During the appointment, your identity and your documents will be checked (please bring all documents, if possible in the original, with you to the appointment).
If your application is approved, your fingerprints will be taken to produce a settlement permit in the form of a new electronic residence permit (eAT card for short).
The immigration authorities commission the Federal Printing Office to produce the eAT card. Once the card has been completed, you will receive information - possibly via your representative - and can collect the eAT card from the responsible office. The eAT card must always be collected in person.
If your application is rejected, you will receive a rejection notice - possibly via your representative.
Processing time
The processing time usually takes 6 to 8 weeks and also depends on the completeness of the documents and also on the customer.
If documents are missing, the processing time will be extended.
It takes about 4 to 6 weeks for the Federal Printing Office to produce the electronic residence permit.
Fees
55.00 € for minor applicants
113.00 € for adult applicants