Applying for a residence permit for freelancers

You can obtain a residence permit for freelancers if you wish to work as a freelancer in Germany. Freelance activities include self-employed scientific, artistic, literary, teaching, educational or other self-employed professional activities in accordance with Section 18 (1) of the Income Tax Act (e.g. self-employed doctors, notaries, tax consultants)

If required, you must present a professional license. A professional license is a state-issued professional permit that allows people to work in a specific profession in Germany (e.g. health professions, lawyers). If you do not yet have a professional license, it is sufficient if you can prove that it has been granted.

• Valid passport or passport substitute
• Visa, if required for entry into Germany
• Current biometric photo
• If applicable, a license to practice a liberal profession or a notice of approval for its issuance
• Proof of sufficient funds to cover living expenses (e.g., personal assets, blocked account, letter of financial support)
• Proof of health insurance
• Current certificate of residence
• If you are 45 years of age or older: Proof of adequate retirement provisions (e.g., proof of personal assets, accrued pension entitlements, business assets)

In individual cases, the Foreigners’ Registration Office may request additional documents.

Issuance of a Residence Permit: EUR 100.00

Under certain conditions, a fee reduction or exemption may be granted.

Notes:

• Additional fees may apply for the issuance of a residence permit in the form of an electronic residence permit, which can also be used as an electronic form of identification.
• The timing, method of fee collection, and payment vary depending on the agency.

• You should apply for a residence permit no later than eight weeks before your visa or current residence permit expires.
• The residence permit is issued for a limited period.
• Appeal period: one month