You’ve built a life here. We’ll help you make it permanent.
Nia Rakheja
CEO & Co-Founder
You’ve built a life here. We’ll help you make it permanent.
Nia Rakheja
CEO & Co-Founder
Applying for permanent residence in Germany (also known as the Settlement Permit or Niederlassungserlaubnis) is a big step and one that often comes with confusing requirements, unclear timelines, and different rules depending on your visa type. Drift helps you navigate that process, whether you’re self-employed, employed, or a graduate of a German university. We’ll help you understand the requirements, prepare the right documents, and work with a lawyer to submit confidently.
Applying for permanent residence in Germany (also known as the Settlement Permit or Niederlassungserlaubnis) is a big step and one that often comes with confusing requirements, unclear timelines, and different rules depending on your visa type. Drift helps you navigate that process, whether you’re self-employed, employed, or a graduate of a German university. We’ll help you understand the requirements, prepare the right documents, and work with a lawyer to submit confidently.
How it works
How it works
Tell us what you need help with
Whether it’s applying, renewing, switching, or fixing something that went wrong — we’ll ask a few questions so we can understand your case and get you on the right track.
Meet your lawyer
Get a 1:1 online session with a licensed immigration lawyer who has reviewed your case in advance.
On average, a session is available in the next 24 hours.
10:45
Upgrade if needed
Need help preparing and submitting your application? You can upgrade to be represented by a lawyer anytime.
3+
Upload Documents
Upload Documents
Organize Documents
Organize Documents
Check for issues
Check for issues
Pair with lawyer
Pair with lawyer
Submit application
Submit application
Next Appointment : 10 Aug
Tell us what you need help with
Whether it’s applying, renewing, switching, or fixing something that went wrong — we’ll ask a few questions so we can understand your case and get you on the right track.
Meet your lawyer
Get a 1:1 online session with a licensed immigration lawyer who has reviewed your case in advance.
On average, a session is available in the next 24 hours.
10:45
Lina from Drift
Today 09:17
Your legal assessment is now ready!
Upgrade if needed
Need help preparing and submitting your application? You can upgrade to be represented by a lawyer anytime.
3+
Upload Documents
Organize Documents
Check for issues
Pair with lawyer
Submit application
Next Appointment : 10 Aug
Who can apply for permanent residence in Germany?
You may be eligible if you:
Have lived in Germany legally for several years (usually 5+, sometimes 3 for graduates or 2 for Blue Card holders) Hold a valid residence permit (e.g., self-employment, Blue Card, skilled worker, freelancer) Can prove financial stability Have B1 German language skills Have made contributions to the German pension system We’ll help you confirm your eligibility and identify the fastest path forward.
Who can apply for permanent residence in Germany?
You may be eligible if you:
Have lived in Germany legally for several years (usually 5+, sometimes 3 for graduates or 2 for Blue Card holders) Hold a valid residence permit (e.g., self-employment, Blue Card, skilled worker, freelancer) Can prove financial stability Have B1 German language skills Have made contributions to the German pension system We’ll help you confirm your eligibility and identify the fastest path forward.
Common types of permanent residence applicants we support:
We most often work with applicants who fall into these categories:
Startup founders & freelancers with 3–5+ years of residence Employees with an EU Blue Card (eligible after 21–33 months) Graduates of German universities who’ve worked here for 2+ years Spouses of German or EU citizens building long-term lives in Germany.
Common types of permanent residence applicants we support:
We most often work with applicants who fall into these categories:
Startup founders & freelancers with 3–5+ years of residence Employees with an EU Blue Card (eligible after 21–33 months) Graduates of German universities who’ve worked here for 2+ years Spouses of German or EU citizens building long-term lives in Germany.
What are the requirements?
Each category has slightly different rules, but most applicants must show:
Legal residence in Germany (2–5+ years depending on permit) German language skills (usually B1) Ability to support yourself financially No serious criminal record Pension contributions (typically 24+ months for employed workers) Integration into German society (e.g., knowledge of law and life in Germany). Secure your future in Germany with certainty — start your permanent residence application today.
What are the requirements?
Each category has slightly different rules, but most applicants must show:
Legal residence in Germany (2–5+ years depending on permit) German language skills (usually B1) Ability to support yourself financially No serious criminal record Pension contributions (typically 24+ months for employed workers) Integration into German society (e.g., knowledge of law and life in Germany). Secure your future in Germany with certainty — start your permanent residence application today.
More options
Immigration Law
Extend or renew my current permit
Don’t risk it expiring. Let’s get it renewed, fast.
Immigration Law
Extend or renew my current permit
Don’t risk it expiring. Let’s get it renewed, fast.
Immigration Law
I'm starting a business in Germany
Ready to build? We’ll handle the immigration side.
Immigration Law
I'm starting a business in Germany
Ready to build? We’ll handle the immigration side.
