Residence, visa and citizenship law · No asylum or BAMF asylum proceedings.

Science and mobility

Structure the residence route around the research project.

Hosting agreement, contract, duration and EU mobility determine which route is appropriate for researchers in Berlin.

Research is a distinct residence purpose

A research residence permit generally requires a valid hosting agreement or corresponding contract with an eligible research organisation. Not every academic job automatically falls within this category.

Check the institution and agreement

The project, financing, duration and status of the institution should be documented clearly before applying. Additional questions can arise where the institution is not officially recognised.

Mobility within the EU

Researchers who already hold a relevant permit from another EU Member State may fall under special mobility rules for a temporary project in Germany. Duration and prior notification are decisive.

After the project

A limited period to seek qualification-appropriate employment may be available after completing the research. The next step should be prepared before the research permit expires.

Typical documents

  • passport and current permit or national visa
  • hosting agreement or research contract
  • proof of financing or remuneration
  • health insurance and Berlin residence
  • for EU mobility: permit from the other Member State and project dates
Based on the Berlin service “Residence permit for research purposes”, reviewed August 2026.