Permanent Residence without University Degree in Germany as IT Professional (19c2 visa)
Hello,
I’m a Senior Software Engineer living in Munich with a §19c2 visa (IT specialist work permit). I’ve been working in Germany for over two years without a university degree or language certificate, and I’m now interested in applying for permanent residence.
I know IT professionals with a Blue Card can apply after 27 months with A1 German, but I couldn’t find any official resources that address my specific situation. According to a link I found, it seems possible to switch my visa to a Blue Card. However, I’m wondering if I can apply directly for a settlement permit (permanent residence) with A1 German under my current visa, without switching first.
Any official resources, guidance, or advice would be greatly appreciated!
Thank you so much in advance.
Dear @farbodkain
It’s great to hear that you’ve already achieved so much!
You’ve already done a quite deep research in the topic! It’s correct that, since the new law, a university degree is no longer required to obtain a Blue Card, provided you meet the other requirements. As a Senior Software Engineer, I assume you fulfill them (salary, years of experience, etc.).
Since you have not officially held a Blue Card yet, it’s unlikely that the caseworker at the foreigners department will take your previous time as equivalent to holding a Blue Card. As an IT specialist it is very likely the usual requirements will be needed for an official application, along with the other conditions. You can read more about it on Handbook Germany.
Of course, you can now check whether you would qualify for a Blue Card and apply for one. Based on that, you could then apply for the permanent residence permit accordingly.
You may also consider reaching out to a migration counseling center. They may have experience with a similar case and could provide practical insights. There are several in Munich. You can narrow down the search by entering your zip code.
Looking forward to your answer or please let me know if you have further questions.