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🇩🇪 Germany

Freelance Visa

Residence permit for self-employed professionals and freelancers (Freiberufler). Covers IT consultants, designers, writers, artists, architects, consultants, and other liberal professions. Requires client letters of intent, business plan, proof of qualifications, and health insurance. Key distinction: Freiberufler (liberal professions - no trade tax) vs Gewerbetreibender (commercial - pays trade tax). Initial permit 6 months-3 years, renewable with successful business operation. No minimum income requirement but must prove economic viability. Path to permanent residence after 5 years.

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Processing Time

1-3 months

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Cost

€75 application fee

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Duration

6 months to 3 years initial

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Work Rights

Self-employment only in approved field

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Renewability

Renewable with successful business

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Path to Permanent Residence

Yes

Requirements

  • 1Professional qualifications (degree for some professions)
  • 22+ client letters of intent
  • 3Detailed business plan with earnings projection
  • 4Proof of economic viability
  • 5Health insurance (public or private)
  • 6Sufficient savings (€5,000-10,000 recommended)
  • 7If 45+: retirement provision required (unless from exempt countries)

Related Guides & Articles

Germany Freelance Visa (Freiberufler): Complete 2026 Guide

How to obtain Germany's freelance visa for self-employed professionals. Requirements, application process, and path to permanent residence.

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