What absences do not have a prejudicial effect on the right of residence and are thus "harmless"?

The following absences are "harmless". In the calculation, they are treated as if they had not happened:

• temporary absences not exceeding six months a year or
• absences of a longer duration for compulsory military service (conscription) or
• one absence of a maximum of 12 consecutive months for important reasons such as pregnancy and childbirth, serious illness, study or vocational training, or a posting in another country.

Anyone who has a right of permanent residence under the Withdrawal Agreement only loses it after being absent from Germany for five years.