Long-term assistance and residence permits 

Long-term residence and permits

In addition to the temporary residence permit, victims of human trafficking can apply for asylum or international protection. Human trafficking can be considered as reason for asylum or international protection if the claims of the victim are found credible and substantiated. 

The applicant can get a temporary residence permit if they are recognized as being entitled to asylum or if the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees has granted them refugee or subsidiary protection status (Asylum Act, Sections 3-4).

Long-term assistance

The possibility to receive long-term assistance depends on the type of residence permit a person holds. Counselling centres can offer possibilities for integration and social inclusion to people who have a legal status in Germany.

A victim who does not make a statement in criminal proceedings will usually be required to leave the country immediately or after the expiry of the reflection and stabilization period. If a victim appears as a witness in court, their residence permit normally ends when the criminal proceedings are terminated or suspended.