How and when do I extend my student residence permit in Berlin?
If you are still studying, you apply to extend your student permit. If your studies are ending, you apply for a job-seeker permit. The application is online. Appointments can take weeks, so it is best to apply 2-4 months before your permit expires.
You apply online on the Berlin service portal (service.berlin.de). On the page you may see options for an electronic card, for a sticker and specially for Turkish citizens. Read them carefully and choose the one that fits you.
Some people say you can apply at most about 4 months before your permit expires. It can take more than 2 months to get from application to appointment. So do not wait for the last 8 weeks.
After you upload your documents, the office gets back to you if anything is missing. If your permit is about to run out, send the office a reminder by email. This way you can get a Fiktionsbescheinigung (a 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.
Similar questions
- Where can I find a Turkish-speaking lawyer or free legal advice in Berlin?
- Can I apply for citizenship a few months before my 5 years are up?
- Can I use the biometric photo from my residence permit application to renew my passport at the Turkish consulate?
- Can I work more than 20 hours a week on a student visa?
- Which apps can I use to prepare for the Leben in Deutschland test?