The German government has published official guidance for 2026 identifying four categories of foreigners who can obtain a settlement permit — a permanent residence title — under facilitated conditions. The guidance applies to skilled workers already living and working in Germany on temporary residence permits and explains how eligible applicants can apply under Section 18c of the Residence Act (AufenthG).
Who Qualifies for the Facilitated Settlement Permit Pathway
According to the German government, the following four groups can apply for a settlement permit under eased requirements:
- EU Blue Card holders
- People who completed higher education or vocational training in Germany
- Highly skilled workers
- Self-employed persons
Belonging to any of these groups does not guarantee automatic approval, but it does mean that standard requirements may be relaxed or streamlined for applicants who meet the relevant criteria.
What a Settlement Permit Offers Holders
A settlement permit allows holders to live and work in Germany without restrictions, whether as an employee or as a self-employed person, and also extends those rights to family members. The permit is seen as a significant milestone for migrants, as it removes the time-bound nature of temporary residence and provides long-term security for both the holder and their immediate family.
Fees and Application Process
Anyone applying for a settlement permit must pay a fee of up to approximately €150 (roughly ₦250,000, depending on the exchange rate) at the time of application. The exact amount varies depending on the applicant's status group, and the government advises prospective applicants to contact their local foreigners authority directly to confirm what they will be required to pay.
In a related story, Legit.ng previously reported that Germany had named eight science occupations eligible for its EU Blue Card residence permit. Additionally, Germany published 12 health occupations eligible for the EU Blue Card, released through the Make It in Germany platform, which guides prospective skilled workers and employers on immigration pathways. Knowing the exact job titles on the shortage list is critical, as eligibility is tied directly to specific occupational codes during the application process.
