🇩🇪 Germany · Employer-sponsored work
Visa for Recognition Partnership (§16d(3) AufenthG) — requirements, costs & how to apply
Who is eligible
| Minimum annual salary | EUR 40,000 |
| Job offer | Required |
| Employer sponsor | Required |
| Work experience | 2+ years |
| Language level | A2 |
| Age range | 18–60 |
Costs
| Application / consular fee | €75 |
Duration & renewal
Initial stay: 12 months. Does not lead directly to permanent residence.
Who can apply
Open to all nationalities.
How to apply
- Confirm you meet the eligibility above.
- Gather documents and apply via the official portal: https://www.make-it-in-germany.com/en/visa-residence/types/visa-recognition-partnership.
- Typical processing: ~120 days.
Frequently asked
Does this visa lead to permanent residence?
No — it does not lead directly to permanent residence.
Sources & verification
Every figure on this page is taken from an official government source and dated. Nothing is inferred.
“Concrete job offer: You have a concrete job offer from an employer in Germany ... Your conditions of employment (salary, working hours, etc.) (no fixed minimum salary threshold; salary per customary/collective terms)”
“'Concrete job offer: You have a concrete job offer from an employer in Germany.' 'Recognition partnership agreement: You have signed a written agreement with your future employer...' 'Your employer must be suitable for a recognition partnership.'”
“The recognition partnership is a visa or residence permit for the purpose of the recognition (Section 16d (3) of the Residence Act) ... (temporary recognition route; silent on PR)”
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Informational only, not legal or immigration advice. Requirements change — always confirm on the official government source linked above before applying. Last verified 2026-06-24.