Last Updated on: 27th June 2023, 09:36 pm
How To Get Germany’s Visa For Self-Employment 2023?
Countries like the United Arab Emirates and Portugal have introduced the Golden Visa for foreigners to give them more freedom of residence, but another country offering a replacement is Germany.
Benefits Of The German Self-Employed Visa
The main advantage of this type of visa is that the self-employment visa or residence permit is initially issued for a maximum of three years, but if your business idea is successful and you can support yourself and your family, the residence permit can be extended.
With a self-employment visa, you can carry out your start-up project in Germany. Depending on whether you want to start a business or work as a freelancer, different conditions apply.
Let’s explore the different options you can choose from within this visa category.
To Start A Business
You can receive a residence permit for self-employment if you meet the following requirements:
- There must be an economic interest or regional demand for your product or service
- It is predictable that your business will have a positive impact on the economy
- You can finance the implementation of your business idea with equity or a loan commitment
- If you have reached the age of 45, this visa can only be granted if you can prove that you have an adequate old-age pension
If you become self-employed, you can apply for a settlement permit after three years. The settlement permit is permanently valid and allows its holder to carry out a profitable activity.
Individuals applying for a residence permit must meet certain requirements set out in the Residence Act.
Freelancers
If you would like to work independently in one of the liberal professions, you can obtain a residence permit for self-employment under the following conditions:
- You can demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to fund your projects
- You have the required license to perform the work in question
- If you are over 45 years old, you must prove that you have sufficient pension provision
How To Apply Online
After checking the age eligibility and whether you are financially strong, make an appointment at the German Embassy and prepare the documents such as a passport, business plan, asset check, visa application, etc. Possible waiting times can be checked on the websites of the embassies.
The next step is to bring all the required documents and apply for them at the embassy. Visa processing time can range from a few days to several weeks. When you get a visa, you are ready to go to Germany.
After landing in Germany, the last step is to make an appointment at the Immigration Office and apply for a residence permit for self-employment. The foreign authority will provide information about the required documents. It should be noted that the residence permit must be applied for before the entry visa expires.
Visa Fees
The visa application fee in the country of residence is EUR 75, and the processing fee for a residence permit can be up to EUR 100.
Also Read: How To Select The Best Argentina Work Visa Type?