Can a spouse of a German national apply for a permanent residence permit?

In may cases non-EU nationals working in Germany are being followed by their spouses. The spose usually receives a separate residence and work permit. Under certain conditions, the spouse permit can be converted to a permanant residence Permit.

A foreign national, who is married to a German national, can apply for a permanent residence permit, if the following conditions are met:

• applicant has lived with the German spouse (or same-sex life partner) in Germany for at least 3 years
• applicant to have been holding a Germany work and residence permit for at least 3 years
• applicant / family to have sufficient funds to support his living in Germany
• applicant to hold german language skills (at least B1)
• applicant not to have criminal records
• sufficient health insurance coverage to be established

Professional guidance for handing in the application is strongly recommended.