An Aufenthaltstitel (residence title) is an official document. It allows you to live in Germany.
There are different types of Aufenthaltstitel. They can be temporary or permanent. For example:
- an Aufenthaltserlaubnis (residence permit)
- a Niederlassungserlaubnis (settlement permit)
- a visa
Aufenthaltstitel are generally for people from countries outside the European Union (EU).
The Landesamt für Einwanderung (LEA; State Office for Immigration) is responsible for Aufenthaltstitel in Berlin.
Appointments at LEA
You must apply for a visa before entering Germany. You can do this at the German embassy in your country.
Electronic residence title (eAT)
The Aufenthaltstitel is usually a plastic card. If the card has a small chip symbol, then it is an elektronischer Aufenthaltstitel (eAT; electronic residence title). Your data is stored on the chip. Important information about you is written on the residence title. For example, your:
- photo
- name
- date of birth
Sticker
Sometimes, your Aufenthaltstitel is not a card, but a sticker in your passport. In this case, you do not have an elektronischer Aufenthaltstitel (eAT).
What do I need to pay attention to?
Often, you also receive an additional document with your Aufenthaltstitel. It contains important information, such as whether you are allowed to work and what kind of work you are allowed to do.
