Researcher Visa (§18d)
Researchers with a hosting agreement at a German research institution.
The Researcher Visa (§18d) is a German work & skilled visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (~€100 (residence permit)) and processing time (~1-3 months), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the Researcher Visa (§18d) is for
Researchers with a hosting agreement at a German research institution.
Counts toward settlement; fast-track for academics with stable funding.
Researcher Visa (§18d) - eligibility criteria
- Hosting/reception agreement with a recognised institution
- Relevant higher education qualification
- Funding or salary covering the stay
- Health insurance coverage
- Defined research project
Researcher Visa (§18d) cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the Researcher Visa (§18d) (Germany) is ~€100 (residence permit), with an indicative processing time of ~1-3 months. Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at Make it in Germany / BAMF.
| Type | Temporary |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | Outside or inside the country |
| Length of stay | Duration of the hosting agreement (often 1-3 years) |
| Work rights | Research and related teaching with the host |
| Study rights | Permitted alongside research |
| Government fee | ~€100 (residence permit) |
| Processing time | ~1-3 months |
| Route to PR | Counts toward settlement; fast-track for academics with stable funding. |
Pathway & next steps
Counts toward settlement; fast-track for academics with stable funding.
Many applicants also compare EU Blue Card · EU Blue Card (Blaue Karte EU), Skilled Worker · Skilled Worker Visa (Fachkräfte, §18a/§18b), Niederlassung · Settlement Permit (Niederlassungserlaubnis). Run a free VisaChief check to see which German route best fits your profile, then prepare an application reviewed by a registered migration agency in our partner network.
Common Researcher Visa (§18d) pitfalls we fix
Researcher Visa (§18d) - frequently asked questions
How much does the Researcher Visa (§18d) cost?
The Researcher Visa (§18d) government fee is ~€100 (residence permit). Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at Make it in Germany / BAMF before applying.
How long does the Researcher Visa (§18d) take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~1-3 months. Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the Researcher Visa (§18d) lead to permanent residence?
Counts toward settlement; fast-track for academics with stable funding.
Can I work on the Researcher Visa (§18d)?
Work rights: Research and related teaching with the host.
Who can apply for the Researcher Visa (§18d)?
Researchers with a hosting agreement at a German research institution.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official Germany government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, fees and processing times change - always confirm the current rules with the issuing authority before you apply:
- Make it in Germany / BAMF - official Germany immigration authority