§ 16b AufenthG ("student residence permit")

You are here: Life in Tübingen Paperwork Residence permit § 16b AufenthG ("student residence permit")

Are you a PhD student without a work contract? Then the § 16b AufenthG ("student") residence permit might be the right choice for you. This residence permit is valid for doctoral studies at a German university.

Requirements

In order to obtain a § 16b AufenthG ("student") residence permit you must prove:

  • Your admission or enrollment to a state-recognised higher education institution such as the University of Tübingen. 
  • You are able to cover the costs of living in Tübingen for the duration of your doctoral studies. This must be done through either: 
    •  a blocked bank account with a minimum of €11.208 (as of 2024)
    • a scholarship
    • a declaration of commitment ("förmliche Verpflichtungserklärung")
  • Your language skills (level B2 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). 
What opportunities does the § 16b AufenthG ("student") residence permit offer?

The § 16b AufenthG ("student") residence permit offers many advantages. While having lower financial requirements, this type of residence permit also does not tie your employment to the University of Tübingen. Instead, you can work up to

  • 140 full days per year or
  • 280 half days per year or
  • 20 hours per week

at an employer of your choosing. You can also take up part-time student jobs for an unlimited period. 

Pages of Interest

Neurology imaging 1000x365

Research in Tübingen

Tübingen is a special place for research. Very few locations offer such a wide range of research areas in such close proximity - both physically and figuratively. Not only are all of Tübingen's research institutions just a stone's throw away from each other, they also collaborate closely within the Tübingen Research Campus.

Visit page
Hohentuebingen Castle

Life in Tübingen

Life in Tübingen is life in the heart of Europe and in one of Germany's most scenic and economically competitive regions. It's a bustling mediaeval town with a young, international, and vibrant population and a rich cultural and artistic scene. Lectures, concerts, film festivals, and more: life in Tübingen never gets boring.

Visit page
TNC Network v2

Tübingen Neuro Campus

The Neurosciences in Tübingen with more than 100 active research groups have the potential to rank among the most successful neuroscientific sites in Europe.

Visit page