Is the German settlement permit permanent, and can I travel on it?

The settlement permit is an open-ended residence title, meaning it does not need to be renewed in the way temporary permits do. It establishes your right to live in Germany indefinitely.

As a German residence title, it also allows travel within the Schengen states for short stays, typically up to 90 days within any 180-day window. You should still be mindful of rules that can lead to the permit lapsing after very long absences from Germany.