The proper way to solve a suddenly ended PhD contract
My PhD contract is set to end because my professor's funding will run out in July 2026, and there is nothing that can change this fact.
However, in the Hosting Agreement form I submitted for my German visa, my professor stated that my contract would end in May 2027. As a result, my residence permit is also valid until May 2027. This means that I can remain in Germany until May 2027, if I can secure my living expenses.
I would like to clarify the proper order of the actions I should take:
Step 1: Inform the Foreign Office about my situation.
Step 2: Once I receive a response, I will apply for unemployment benefits. Can I submit the application without waiting for a response?
Step 3: Meanwhile, I will seek a job. If I find a job, I can stay in Germany and continue my PhD. Is that correct?
I appreciate your support and any input you may have.
Thank you!
Hi! This situation must be quite stressful, but you’re not alone—many PhD students face similar mismatches between contract dates and residence permits.
Your understanding of the situation is already quite good. The most important steps are: 1) Notify the Foreigners’ Office immediately about the early end of your PhD contract (July 2026 instead of May 2027). Your residence permit is tied to the purpose of stay (research/employment), so authorities must know if circumstances change. (Handbook Germany – Changing Residence Title)
2) Apply for a job-seeker residence permit or clarify your status before your current permit expires. This can allow you to remain in Germany to look for work or continue your PhD if feasible. You do not need to wait for the immigration office’s response to start planning this, but any change of purpose must be approved.
3) Register as a jobseeker with the Agentur für Arbeit as soon as you know your contract is ending. You can apply for unemployment benefits after your employment ends. Your residence permit must allow you to stay legally during this time.
4) Find a job: If you secure employment that meets visa requirements, you can update or extend your residence permit based on the new contract.
Other practical tips I can give you: Talk to your university’s International Office / Legal Office. Universities often help with such mismatches. And keep a record of everything in writing. The best of luck to you! Violeta