Information for Hosts

Visas and residence permits for researchers, in particular with a hosting agreement in accordance with Section 18d of the Residence Act (AufenthG)

For international researchers who are third-country nationals, residence law provides various options for obtaining a residence permit, depending on the individual circumstances. 

One of these options is a residence permit for the purpose of research (Section 18d of the Residence Act).

The Hosting Agreement is a legally relevant document within the framework of residence law for international researchers and serves as the basis for the issuance of a visa or residence permit for research purposes. To ensure compliance with legal requirements, internal procedures and export control regulations, the Welcome Centre is responsible for reviewing and signing these agreements. Other organisational units and university members are therefore not authorised to sign hosting agreements independently.

Further information on the procedure for guest stays can be found in the Pre-Arrival Checklist for Hosts.

If you have any questions or require advice, please contact the Welcome Centre at an early stage.