Germany offers a self-employment visa for non-EU nationals who want to start or run a business in the country. This guide explains who’s eligible, what documents you need, how the application works, and how to set yourself up for success.

What is the self-employment visa?

The self-employment visa (Aufenthaltserlaubnis zur selbständigen Tätigkeit) is a residence permit for founders, freelancers, or business owners who want to work independently in Germany. It’s open to both creative professionals and commercial entrepreneurs.

There are two main paths:

• Freelance (Freiberuflich): for creative, academic, or professional service roles (writers, designers, consultants, artists, etc.)

• Business ownership (Gewerbe): for those founding or running a commercial business (e.g. a tech startup, food business, or online shop)

Who can apply

You may qualify if you:

• Are a non-EU national

• Have a viable business or freelance plan

• Can show how your work will support you financially in Germany

• Have clients or contracts in place (for freelancers)

• Can demonstrate business value or local demand (for founders or business owners)

• Have relevant experience or qualifications in your field

If you’re over 45, you’ll need to show pension planning or a retirement strategy.

What documents you need

Requirements can vary by city or visa type (freelance vs. business), but generally include:

• Valid passport

• Business or freelance plan

• Proof of income or financing

• Portfolio or references

• Client letters or contracts (for freelancers)

• Commercial register entry (if applicable)

• Proof of health insurance

• Proof of accommodation (rental contract)

• CV and qualifications

• Application form and biometric photo

Business applicants may also need:

• Financial projections

• Market analysis

• Evidence of benefit to the local economy

Where to apply

You can apply:

• From abroad: through your local German embassy or consulate

• From within Germany: if you already hold a valid visa (e.g. student or job seeker visa)

Applications from inside Germany are usually submitted to your local Ausländerbehörde (foreigners’ office).

How long it takes

Timelines vary by city and workload, but typically:

• 6–10 weeks if applying from abroad

• 8–12+ weeks if applying inside Germany

It may take longer if your business model is complex or if additional documents are requested.

How long is it valid?

• Usually granted for 1–3 years, depending on your financial outlook and business plan

• Can be extended if your self-employment remains viable

• May lead to permanent residency after 3 years (for business owners) or 5 years (for freelancers)

Can family members join?

Yes. Spouses and children can join under family reunification rules. Spouses can usually work without restriction once their permit is granted.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Submitting an incomplete business plan

• Not showing enough income or demand

• Failing to tailor your application to German context or local needs

• Applying too early without contracts or proof of work

• Not preparing for a visa interview, where you may need to explain your business

Do you need a lawyer?

Not legally—but it can help. Legal support is especially useful if:

• You’re unsure whether your activity qualifies as freelance or commercial

• Your income is variable or close to the minimum threshold

• You need to register a business and prepare formal documents

• You want guidance on long-term planning (e.g. permanent residency or taxes)

Drift works with licensed immigration lawyers to help self-employed applicants navigate the process. Our platform helps organize your case, track requirements, and manage the application in coordination with legal experts.

Before you apply

• Start working on your business plan or service portfolio

• Reach out to potential clients or prepare contracts

• Get familiar with health insurance options for freelancers

• Check processing times in your city or embassy

• Gather all documents well in advance

  
  

Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Drift is not a law firm. We partner with licensed immigration lawyers in Germany and provide a platform that helps manage and streamline the self-employment visa application process. All legal services are delivered by qualified professionals in accordance with German law.