Many international students aim to find a job in Germany following their studies. After successful completion of the Degree, however, the residence permit becomes invalid. It is irrelevant whether the residence permit was originally valid for a longer period. Therefore, it is necessary to apply for an extension of the "Residence Permit to Search for a Job Appropriate to the Degree" at the Foreigners' Registration Office.

According to the current version of the Residence Act (AufenthG § 16,4 IV), the residence permit can be extended up to 18 months in the following cases:

• For the purpose of seeking employment appropriate to the university degree, or
• To establish a business, and if
• The intended employment may be performed by foreigners in accordance with the regulations of §§ 18-21 AufenthG(http://dejure.org/gesetze/AufenthG).

Corresponding efforts to find a job (applications, etc.) must be proven to the Foreigners' Registration Office. During the job search, you can pursue any gainful employment (including self-employment).