Hi everyone,

I’m applying for my first residence permit for Germany in Berlin, specifically the preparation for studying permit. I am taking intensive German language courses to learn the language before I apply to some PhD programs here. It was a challenge to find a place with Anmeldung–in addition to some other bumps in the road along the way–but I got the last few things I needed together, at last, in the past couple days. This is good too, as I’m from the US and my 3 months in the Schengen Area are pretty much up.

I’ve seen, in various places online, that you are able to apply by email, so I sent my application, in a PDF with all the necessary supporting materials, to the immigration office (I’m applying for a preparation to study permit, so specifically here: [B1@lea.berlin.de](mailto:B1@lea.berlin.de)).

When I submitted my application, I received an automated response that said my application was under consideration. However, the email says “you applied for an **extension** of your permit of residence, Blue Card or visa for long term residence via e-mail? This e-mail will be classified as an application” \[Bold added.\]

But I’m not applying for an extension at all–this will be my first residence permit.

I did this because they are explicit (here: [https://www.berlin.de/einwanderung/en/residence/artikel.1170240.en.php](https://www.berlin.de/einwanderung/en/residence/artikel.1170240.en.php)) that they are not offering online appointments due to the situation with refugees coming from Ukraine.

Specifically:

For the time being… it is **unfortunately no longer possible to offer short-term express appointments** in the online appointment setting.

We ask for your understanding and support in this special situation.

But then at the bottom of the page it says:

* Units B 1 and B 2 are responsible for residence permits for qualified skilled workers, education and training programs, school attendance, studies, scientists and researchers and their family members.
* The service takes place **only by appointment**.

I’m so confused.

Did I do this wrong? And if so, does anyone know what I should do since it’s not possible to get an in-person appointment?

Any advice is appreciated. This has been something of a stressful process already.

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