Research work in another member state

If you wish to carry out research in another Member State, you will find further information here about your rights and obligations during your work abroad.

Short-term mobility (up to 180 days within any 360-day period)

Section 18e of the German Residence Act (Residence Act) regulates the short-term mobility of researchers who have a residence permit issued by another EU member state Residence permit for the purpose of research according to Directive (EU) 2016/801 possess. In these cases, no German residence permit is required. This applies to stays of up to 180 days within a 360-day period.

It is a Notification procedure intended for short-term mobility, which of the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees is carried out. The notification must be received in full prior to entry.

Long-term mobility (180 days to one year)

In cases where researchers already hold a residence permit issued by another EU Member State for the purpose of research, which was granted within the scope of Directive (EU) 2016/801, and they wish to carry out part of their research project in Germany for a period of more than 180 days and up to one year – so-called long-term mobility of researchers – the issuance of a Residence permit according to Section 18f of the Residence Act into consideration.

The Application for the issuance of the residence permit pursuant to Section 18f of the Residence Act (AufenthG), both at the competent Immigration Office as well as be submitted to the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees. If the application is submitted to the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees submitted, it accepts the application and forwards it to the competent immigration authority.

In addition to the residence permit of the first EU state, which is issued for research purposes and in accordance with the REST Directive, the following documents must be submitted:

• recognized, valid passport/passport substitute
• Admission agreement 
• Agreement with the host research institution 
• Proof of secure livelihood including proof of health insurance.

• Law on the Mobility of Researchers in the German Residence Act (AufenthG)

Visa and entry