How do I get or extend my student residence permit in Erlangen or Nuremberg?

Most Pakistani students enter Germany on a national (D) study visa. After arrival, the visa has to be converted into a residence permit for study purposes (§ 16b AufenthG) at the immigration office (Ausländerbehörde) of the place where you live. This is a summary of what the official pages say. For your individual case, the immigration office decides.

Which office?

It depends on where you are registered, not where you study:

• City of Erlangen: Abteilung für Ausländerangelegenheiten und Einbürgerungen, Rathausplatz 1, 91052 Erlangen
• District Erlangen-Höchstadt (e.g. Herzogenaurach, Baiersdorf): the Landratsamt's immigration office, linked from FAU's page
• City of Nuremberg: Amt für Migration und Integration, Aufenthaltsbegleitung. Visitor address Regensburger Straße 231, 90478 Nuremberg. The city announces a move to Stadthaus Q from Monday 30 November 2026, so check the address before you go.

Steps

1. Register your address (Anmeldung) and enrol at FAU first. You need the enrolment certificate and proof of health insurance.
2. Apply well before your visa expires. FAU recommends applying about three months before a visa or permit expires.
3. Erlangen: apply through the city's online contact form, by email or in person; the office then arranges the next step. The page lists phone numbers by the first letter of your family name.
4. Nuremberg: the residence permit can be applied for and extended online on nuernberg.de. The office contacts you by letter if an appointment is needed.
5. Go to the appointment with the original documents and pay the fee. Nuremberg accepts cash, Girocard, common debit and credit cards, Apple Pay and Google Pay.
6. For an extension, repeat the process with an updated enrolment certificate and proof of funds.

How long and how much?

• The permit is usually granted for , and not less than one year; shorter if your programme ends sooner (§ 16b (2) AufenthG).