Extension of the EU Blue card
Hello everyone and thanks for helping me with my questions,
I have been working as a researcher in a research institute with a university in Hessen since 01.09.2023. I received an EU Blue Card on the basis of my contract(which ended on 31.09.2025). The EU Blue Card last day of validity is 31.12.2025.
As you know how it is with research institutes and applying for grant as a Ph.D. student could be tough, we received a preliminary approval for an EU grant which begins in 01.01.2026 for a period of 3 years.
However it is not yet finalized so the university only gave me a contract until the end of the year(so 3-month gap from 31.09.2025 to 31.12.2025). I will hopefully get a new longer term contract(from 01.01.2026 to end of 31.12.2027) very soon in the coming weeks.
My question is what should I do with regards to my blue card situation in this case. I received a letter that I must apply for an extension of Blue card 8 weeks before. But I only atm have the 3-month contract which is not enough(I guess) for an extension. Is there a way to get some from the foreigners' office until I get the new contract?
Dear @amir1997 welcome to our forum!
It's great that your new grant and contract are already in preparation!
In general, you are correct that the EU Blue Card can only be extended if you can present a valid employment contract that meets the requirements. Since your current contract ends on 31 December 2025, therefore, the foreigners department will not be able to issue an extension until your new contract is finalized.
Nevertheless, you can already request an appointment about eight weeks before your residence permit expires. By that time, you may already be able to present your new contract and apply for the extension. If not, you could alternatively apply for a job seeking residence permit, which is often granted for an additional three months to look for a suitable employment.
Another option might be to apply for an Opportunity Card (Chancenkarte), if you meet the requirements. You can read more about it on Handbook Germany.
May I ask whether you completed your degree in Germany or started directly as a researcher here?
I hope you will receive an answer soon to be able to extend your residence permit without any problems. Please let me know if you have further questions.