I completely agree. I have been living here for 8 years, and recently applied for a permanent settlement permit.
My application went into a blackhole for more than 4 months, while my existing permit expired, essentially making me a prisoner here (I can stay and work in Germany but if I travel internationally, I won't be allowed entry back).
Meanwhile, my applications for a temporary travel permit were unanswered for months. There is no way to contact the foreign office (no email, no telephone, no fax). You just send your application and pray.
I strongly advise anyone to stay away from Germany if you have better options. This country is a bureaucratic nightmare in general.
My application went into a blackhole for more than 4 months, while my existing permit expired, essentially making me a prisoner here (I can stay and work in Germany but if I travel internationally, I won't be allowed entry back).
Meanwhile, my applications for a temporary travel permit were unanswered for months. There is no way to contact the foreign office (no email, no telephone, no fax). You just send your application and pray.
I strongly advise anyone to stay away from Germany if you have better options. This country is a bureaucratic nightmare in general.