Visa for Self-Employment

With a visa for self-employment, you can realise your start-up project in Germany. Depending on whether you are planning on setting up a business or working as a freelancer, different conditions may apply. 

To find out whether you require a visa to enter Germany, please refer to the “How do I apply for a visa?” section.

There are two ways to become self-employed in Germany. Either you set up a business or you work as a freelancer.

If you are looking to start a business, you may be eligible for a residence permit for self-employment in accordance with Section 21 (1) of the Residence Act (AufenthG) (External link) . The following requirements must be met and presented in your business plan  in a convincing manner:

• There needs to be an economic interest in or a regional demand for your product or service.
• It is foreseeable that your company will have a positive effect on the economy.
• You are able to finance the implementation of your business concept with your own capital or through a loan commitment.
• If you are older than 45 years of age, this visa can only be issued if you can provide proof of adequate old age pension provisions.

If you are unsure whether you meet the requirements mentioned above, please contact an advisory service, for example, a business association based in your target region. They will be glad to assist you with your enquiry.

If you would like to work as a freelancer in one of the liberal professions, you are able to obtain a residence title for self-employment in accordance with Section 21 (5) of the Residence Act (AufenthG) (External link) . You may obtain the visa or the residence permit if you meet the following requirements:   

• You can provide proof of sufficient funds to finance your projects.
• You have obtained any licences required to perform the job in question.
• You have sufficient financial means to cover your cost-of-living expenses.
• If you are older than 45 years of age, you must provide proof of adequate pension provision.

Do you meet the requirements mentioned above? Find out about the visa and entry procedure next.

The visa or residence permit for self-employment (applicable to both setting up a business and working in a liberal profession) is initially granted for up to three years. If your business idea proves successful and you are able to support yourself and your family financially, the residence permit can be extended.

To find out how to turn your business idea into reality in Germany, please refer to the “Starting a Business” section.