It might be that the period 2016-17 was flagged as a potential break in residence in their systems. In the case that it was a secondment, it might be worth if they request further information to get a letter from his then employer to confirm he was seconded to Germany. Possibly they were unaware of your husband’s permanent residence since 1987 – did you show a passport of that ilk to confirm this status at your appointment?
Reply To: Aufenthaltstitel cards
It might be that the period 2016-17 was flagged as a potential break in residence in their systems. In the case that it was a secondment, it might be worth if they request further information to get a letter from his then employer to confirm he was seconded to Germany. Possibly they were unaware of your husband’s permanent residence since 1987 – did you show a passport of that ilk to confirm this status at your appointment?