§ 18d AufenthG
Residence permit for researchers
For PhD candidates and scientists with a hosting agreement from a recognised German research institution. Minimal bureaucracy, EU mobility for research stays, and family joins without language requirements.
Last verified: 21 July 2026 · Legal basis: § 18d AufenthG
Duration
12 months
At least 1 year or project duration; renewable.
Family
Privileged: spouses join without German language proof and receive full work access.
Permanent residence
PR after 5 years (§ 9); researchers on employment contracts can often use § 18c after switching, and PhD graduates of German universities qualify for the 2-year fast track.
Requirements
- Hosting agreement (Aufnahmevereinbarung) or contract with a German research institution
- Livelihood secured — salary, scholarship, or savings
- Doctorate-granting degree for PhD projects (usually a Master's)
How to apply
- Sign the hosting agreement Universities, Max Planck, Fraunhofer, Helmholtz and Leibniz institutes issue these routinely.
- Apply via the Consular Services Portal Researcher visas are among the fastest-processed categories.Official page ↗
- Arrive and register Anmeldung, then residence permit; many institutions have welcome offices that handle the paperwork with you.
Frequently asked questions
Scholarship instead of salary — does it count?
Yes, if it covers your living costs. DAAD and major foundation scholarships are routinely accepted.
Can I teach or take side jobs?
Teaching related to your research is allowed; other employment needs permission noted in your permit.
PhD via § 16b or § 18d?
With an employment contract or hosting agreement, § 18d is usually better: family privileges and no blocked account. Structured programmes without contracts sometimes run via § 16b.