Description

The Residence Act (Aufenthaltsgesetz - AufenthG) is the primary legal framework governing the entry, residence, and employment of foreign nationals in Germany. The Act regulates the conditions under which non-EU citizens (third-country nationals) can enter and stay in Germany, aligning with European Union directives while addressing specific national immigration needs. The AufenthG covers a wide range of immigration-related matters, including the issuance of visas, residence permits, and settlement permits. It defines various types of residence permits, and outlines the criteria for obtaining these permits, including requirements related to financial stability, health insurance, and language proficiency. The AufenthG also establishes the rules for granting permanent residency (settlement permits) and citizenship pathways, providing clarity on the rights and responsibilities of foreign nationals living in Germany.