Renewing Your Aufenthaltstitel — How to Do It Correctly

As of: March 2026. All information without warranty.

When to Apply?

Submit your renewal application in good time — ideally 6–8 weeks before your current Aufenthaltstitel expires. Reasons:
- Waiting times at the Ausländerbehörde are often long (4–12 weeks)
- As long as you apply on time, you can stay in Germany with a Fiktionsbescheinigung

What is a Fiktionsbescheinigung?

If you apply before expiration, you receive a Fiktionsbescheinigung (§ 81 Abs. 4 AufenthG):
- It certifies that your residence continues to be considered lawful
- You can continue working (if your previous permit allowed it)
- It remains valid until a decision is made on your application

⚠️ IMPORTANT: If you apply after expiration, you have no entitlement to a Fiktionsbescheinigung!

Required Documents (Standard)

1. Application form (from the Ausländerbehörde or online)
2. Current passport (valid for the duration of your intended stay)
3. Biometric passport photo (35×45 mm, not older than 6 months)
4. Registration certificate (not older than 6 months)
5. Health insurance proof
6. Proof of financial support:
7. Employment contract + last 3 pay slips
8. or bank statements from the last 3 months
9. Proof of accommodation (rental agreement)
10. Old Aufenthaltstitel (eAT card)

Additionally, depending on your purpose of stay:

• Employment: Employer's certificate, job description
• Studies: University enrollment certificate, proof of academic progress
• Family reunion: A1 language certificate, marriage certificate

Costs

• Renewal: 93–100 € (depending on federal state)
• eAT card (electronic residence permit): included in fee

Tips

• Book an online appointment — attendance in person is usually mandatory
• Bring all documents as copies + originals
• Bring an interpreter if you're not yet confident in German
• If you lose your job, inform the Ausländerbehörde immediately (don't wait!)
• Your old eAT card will be confiscated — your new permit arrives by post (2–4 weeks)