If you come from a third country, you can obtain a residence permit for the purpose of research. To do so, you must have concluded a hosting agreement or a corresponding contract with a research institution in Germany.

In terms of residence law, third countries include all countries outside the European Economic Area (EEA) and Switzerland.

With the residence permit you may:

• take up research work at the research institution with which you have concluded the hosting agreement and
• carry out teaching activities

If the research institution is mainly financed by public funds, it is considered a recognized research institution. In this case, you only need a hosting agreement.

If the research institution is not publicly funded, it must confirm in writing that it will cover all costs incurred by public bodies up to 6 months after the end of the hosting agreement:

• for your living expenses during an unauthorized stay in the EU
• for deportation, if applicable

With a residence permit for research purposes, you can research and teach in another EU country for up to 180 days under certain conditions.

If your research project changes during your stay, you will still retain your residence permit.

Under certain conditions, you can be accompanied by family members:

• • Your spouse is over the age of 18.
  • The persons joining you can communicate easily in German.
  • They have sufficient living space.
  • The family's livelihood is assured.

• Fee: 100.00 EUR
  Under certain conditions, you may be exempt from the fee or pay a reduced fee.
• Fee: 100,00 EUR
  Issuing the residence permit