Settlement permit for highly qualified workers

I read somewhere that highly qualified workers can skip the residence permit and apply directly for permanent settlement, but I have not read threads on it. What are the qualifications? According to the info I got it said I should just provide proof of academic training, but it seems that I don’t need a job contract?

The info I got is here:

[https://www.make-it-in-germany.com/en/visa-residence/living-permanently/settlement-permit](https://www.make-it-in-germany.com/en/visa-residence/living-permanently/settlement-permit)

## Settlement permit for highly qualified professionals

In individual cases, highly qualified professionals can receive a settlement permit in accordance with [**Section 18c (3) AufenthG (German Residence Act)**](https://www.gesetze-im-internet.de/englisch_aufenthg/englisch_aufenthg.html#p0409) straight away without having to spend a set amount of time in Germany first.  

For example, if you are a scientist with special technical knowledge or a teacher in a high-level position, you can obtain a settlement permit immediately upon entering Germany. 

**Important:**

* You must be able to provide proof of academic training

and

* It must be correct to assume that you can integrate into the German way of life and that your [**living costs**](https://www.make-it-in-germany.com/en/service/glossary/glossar/do/show/living-costs) will be covered without having to use public funds.

It is a good idea to gather the required documents prior to entering Germany to be able to obtain your settlement permit immediately.

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