How long will I wait after applying for a Blue Card or for my spouse's extension?
Waiting times vary a lot: it can be 1 month or 5 months. Your spouse's extension can also take months. Keep the confirmation of your application, and send the LEA a written reminder if it takes a long time.
After a Blue Card application (Blaue Karte EU, a residence permit for skilled workers), it is hard to say when the LEA will reply. The invitation to an appointment can come after about 1 month, or only after 5 months.
The extension for the spouse of a Blue Card holder can also take months. Waiting times seem to have got longer recently.
On the first application, the spouse's permit is usually issued to end on the same date as the Blue Card. For the extension, the Blue Card holder can add their spouse to their own application. If the Blue Card holder gets permanent residence, the spouse may need to apply separately.
If you hear nothing for a long time, send the LEA (Berlin's immigration office) a written reminder through its contact form. Keep an eye on the expiry date of your current permit. If you need to travel, make sure you have a Fiktionsbescheinigung (temporary certificate).
Where you can get help
- Service-Portal Berlin
Bürgeramt appointments and information about official procedures in Berlin.
This information is based on community experience and is not legal advice. Rules can change; check important things with the responsible office.
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