Official Expert Answer
A formal suspension of the proceedings is rarely provided for, but there is a clean way. The most important thing is not to simply disappear:
• Write to the authority now and explain the situation with the timeframe and file number. Explicitly ask whether the file can remain open during this time or if they recommend withdrawing the application.
• If you do not respond, the proceedings are often discontinued due to lack of cooperation after the deadline. This is the worst outcome because you have to start over without warning.
• Consider the validity period of individual documents. A certificate of good conduct and a medical certificate are usually only valid for a few months and must be resubmitted when proceedings are resumed. Diplomas and translations, on the other hand, remain valid.
• Simultaneously check your residence permit. A §16d generally expires if you leave the country for an extended period, and this is usually a bigger problem than the file itself.
Contact them in writing before your departure, get the answer back in writing, and clarify the residence permit with the immigration authorities separately.
• Write to the authority now and explain the situation with the timeframe and file number. Explicitly ask whether the file can remain open during this time or if they recommend withdrawing the application.
• If you do not respond, the proceedings are often discontinued due to lack of cooperation after the deadline. This is the worst outcome because you have to start over without warning.
• Consider the validity period of individual documents. A certificate of good conduct and a medical certificate are usually only valid for a few months and must be resubmitted when proceedings are resumed. Diplomas and translations, on the other hand, remain valid.
• Simultaneously check your residence permit. A §16d generally expires if you leave the country for an extended period, and this is usually a bigger problem than the file itself.
Contact them in writing before your departure, get the answer back in writing, and clarify the residence permit with the immigration authorities separately.