Check fixed-term renewal limits (2 years, up to 3 renewals)

Overview

Use this when renewing fixed-term contracts with the same employer. After two years or more than three renewals, the contract may become indefinite by law.

Timing to be aware of

At contract renewal

Reference only — your timing may differ. Confirm with the relevant office.

Key date to check

contract_start_date

Common questions

Questions people often look up at this stage. Answers are general — confirm with the relevant office or a qualified professional.

• My visa expires in 72 hours and the Foreigners' Office hasn't replied. Am I illegal?
• The Foreigners' Office never replies to my emails. How can I get a response?
• The online application for my visa renewal is showing a Technical Error. What is the fallback?
• My visa was approved but the physical card takes 8-12 weeks. Why?
• I don't understand the legal German in my contract; what should I look out for?

Related events

• Check fixed-term contract expiry
  Critical
  90 days before contract expiry
• Apply for Wohngeld renewal
  Medium
  2 months before wohngeld expiry
• Check fixed-term lease end (Zeitmietvertrag)
  Critical
  90 days before contract expiry
• Haftpflicht cancellation notice deadline
  High
  3 months before policy renewal
• Check credit card expiry date
  High
  60 days before card expiry