Security Checks for Russians in Munich: Rules from March 2025

‍Security Checks in Munich for Russian Citizens: New Legal Requirements Effective March 31, 2025

As of March 31, 2025, Russian citizens in Munich must undergo mandatory security interviews as part of a new German regulation aimed at bolstering national security. This change affects those seeking to relocate or work in Munich by adding a Sicherheitsgespräch (security interview) to visa and residence permit applications.
Whether for employment, residency, or family reunification, understanding the eligibility, process, and documentation is essential for a smooth transition. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the Sicherheitsüberprüfung (security check) requirements, including application steps, processing times, and more.

Why the Change Matters

This regulation reflects Germany’s focus on enhancing Innere Sicherheit (internal security) amid shifting geopolitical dynamics. For Russian citizens, it introduces an additional vetting step beyond standard immigration procedures. This also aligns with Germany’s history of adapting policies to international contexts and has the aim to prevent  influence of Russian Federation on German internal security.

Who is affected: Who needs a Security Interview: 

Russian citizens planning stays in Munich exceeding 90 days must participate, including:

• Applicants for work visas (Arbeitsvisum), such as the EU Blue Card or permits for qualified professionals.
• Individuals pursuing family reunification (Familiennachzug).
• Those seeking permanent residency (Niederlassungserlaubnis) or other long-term permits.
• Asylum applicants - Russian citizens seeking protection in Germany
  

The Process: How It Works

The security interview integrates into the visa or residence permit application:

1. Initial Visa or Residence Permit Application: Submit via the German embassy/consulate or Munich’s Kreisverwaltungsreferat (KVR) if in Germany.
2. Security Check Notification: Authorities notify you of the required security talk (Sicherheitsgespräch) post-review.
3. Interview Scheduling: Notification letter contains contact details for scheduling the security interview. Appointment typically takes place at the Ausländerbehörde.‍
4. Attend the Interview: Expect questions on background, travel history, and intent.‍
5. Processing: Once security interview passed successfully, the next step is a regular residence permit appointment with providing bio-metrics.

Requirements: What’s Expected?

To succeed, applicants need:

• A clean background with no threats to öffentliche Sicherheit (public safety).
• A legitimate purpose (e.g., job, family ties).
• Good Deutschkenntnisse (German skills) for communication. Please book and attend the appointment with interpreter if you do not yet communicate confidently in German

Documents Needed

Prepare these for both application and interview:

• Valid passport (Reisepass, issued within 10 years and not  expired at the time of the interview).
• Current proof of legal stay (e.g. visa or residence permit)
• Appointment confirmation letter received by e-mail
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Where to Apply

• In Munich: Handle via the KVR at Ruppertstraße 19, 80337 München (stadt.muenchen.de for details). 
• Working hours:
  • Monday 7.30 AM – 12.00 PM and 1.00 PM – 3.00 PM
  • Tuesday 8.30 AM – 12.00 PM and 2.00 PM – 6.00 PM
  • Wednesday 7.30 AM – 13.00 PM
  • Thursday 8.30 AM – 12.00 PM and 1.00 PM – 4.00 PM
  • Friday 7.30 AM – 12.00 PM
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Appointment Details

• Booking: Authorities inform about the Sicherheitsbefragung necessity after submission of the residence permit application. Please schedule an appointment by using the phone number mentioned in the notification letter.‍
• Location: KVR, Ruppertstraße 19.
• Preparation: Bring all documents; expect a 60+ minute session.
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Processing Time

The interview extends standard timelines:

• Security check: 1-3 weeks after notification received
• Residence Permit appointment: 4–12 weeks after security check, subject to KVR demand.‍
• Receiving of the electronic residence permit card: 6-8 weeks post-interview

Fees

• Interview: No extra cost, bundled into application fees.
• Residence Permit Fee: €100–€147 (KVR, permit-dependent).
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Additional Considerations

• Legal Updates: Monitor Bundesregierung.de and bamf.de for policy changes.
• Support: Use KVR’s Kontaktformular (German-only) for queries.
• Delays: Munich’s busy immigration office may slow processing—apply early.

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Final Thoughts

The new security interview adds complexity for Russian citizens in Munich, but preparation eases the burden. Gather documents, track appointments, and anticipate timelines.

Important disclaimer: Please use this article as an indicative idea and make sure you verify the details with the Ausländerbehörde München or Federal Foreign Office, as this reflects Germany’s balance of security and openness.