My residence permit is tied to a specific employer (Zusatzblatt). Can I change jobs or sectors?

Check your supplementary sheet first: The supplementary sheet (Zusatzblatt) that comes with your residence card states the conditions of your work permission. If it says, for example, «Beschäftigung nur bei Firma X gestattet», you may only work for that employer in that job. If it says «Erwerbstätigkeit gestattet», you may do any work.

If an employer is named: Before starting the new job, you must ask the State Office for Immigration (LEA) to amend your permit. In Berlin this application is made online. Attach the new employment contract and the job description form completed by the employer. If necessary, the LEA obtains approval from the Federal Employment Agency (Bundesagentur für Arbeit). Do not start the new job before approval.

EU Blue Card (Blaue Karte EU): You no longer need prior permission to change employer. However, during the first 12 months after receiving the Blue Card, you must notify the LEA of every change of employer and of any changes that affect the conditions. The new job must also meet the Blue Card requirements (salary threshold, suitable job).

Changing sectors: With a skilled worker permit (for example § 18a or § 18b), the new job may also need to match your qualification. Moving to a completely different field may require a different type of residence permit. Get advice from a migration counselling centre or a lawyer before applying.

If you quit or are dismissed: Your employer must inform the LEA that the employment has ended. Your permit does not become invalid immediately, but the LEA may shorten it. Register with the Arbeitsagentur straight away, look for a new job and stay in contact with the LEA.