FAQ
Common questions.
What do I need for the Germany freelance visa?
The official page asks for: a CV with proof of qualifications, an income forecast (Berlin form), client contracts or at least 2 letters of intent, a licence if the profession needs one, german health insurance and a rental contract or proof you own your home.
How much money do I need for the Germany freelance visa?
No set figure. You need the money or income to fund your work and support yourself. In Berlin, artists and language teachers must also show other regular income. Proof of enough money to live on until the work brings in enough income (German Embassy London list). No set figure.
How long can I stay on the Germany freelance visa?
Berlin usually gives up to 3 years, or 2 if success is in doubt. The law sets no fixed length for freelancers, so other cities may differ. It can be renewed. Berlin asks for a profit statement, tax returns and bank statements, and proof the tax office lists you as a freelancer.
How much does the Germany freelance visa cost?
EUR 100 for a first residence permit card. Berlin charges EUR 56 if the permit is a label in the passport, plus EUR 6 for a photo taken on site. The visa fee abroad is separate.
Who can apply for the Germany freelance visa?
Open to people from outside the EU, the EEA and Switzerland. For freelancers in the liberal professions, such as artists, writers, language teachers, doctors, engineers, interpreters and architects. The work must count as freelance under German tax law (section 18 EStG). Citizens of the EU, the EEA and Switzerland can already live in Germany without this visa.
Can I bring my family?
A spouse can come too, but most spouses must show basic German (German Embassy London).
What work can I do on the Germany freelance visa?
You may only start work once a visa or permit allows self-employment.
How do I apply?
From abroad, at the German embassy or consulate for your place of residence (national D visa). Citizens of Australia, Canada, Israel, Japan, New Zealand, South Korea, the UK and the USA can enter without a visa and apply at the local foreigners office within 90 days. The German Embassy London says most visa applications in this category take 6 to 9 months. In Berlin, a permit card is ready 4 to 6 weeks after the appointment.
Sources
- Germany: Residence permit for freelance work (Section 21(5) Residence Act) (gesetze-im-internet.de)
- Germany: how to apply (service.berlin.de)
- Germany: Residence permit for freelance work (Section 21(5) Residence Act) (gesetze-im-internet.de)
- Germany: Residence permit for freelance work (Section 21(5) Residence Act) (uk.diplo.de)
- Germany: Residence Ordinance section 41 (who can apply inside Germany, German) (gesetze-im-internet.de)
- Germany: Berlin immigration office rules (VAB), A.21.4 (berlin.de)
General information, not legal advice. Last checked 11 Oct 2026.