Summary
A business visa for Germany allows self-employed individuals to live and work legally in the country. There are two main categories: liberal professionals sand commercial entrepreneurs. Applicants must prove financial stability, professional qualifications, and, if over 45, a sufficient retirement plan. Meeting these conditions ensures a smooth entry into the German market.
Contents
- Two types of business activities
- What are the visa requirements?
- Visas for Freiberufler
- Visas for Gewerbetreibender
- You’ve got a visa, now what?
Got questions about setting up a business in Germany?
- Startup expert
- 10+ years experience
Hi, I’m Andreas and I’ve been advising businesses in Germany for over a decade. I’d be happy to call you and answer any questions you have in a one-on-one consultation.
Two business types in Germany – and two types of visas
There are two different ways you can become a self-employed person in Germany:
- Freiberufler: A liberal professional that works in the field of healing, scientific, technical or consulting (e.g. doctors, lawyers, engineers, computer scientists, etc.), or
- Gewerbetreibender: An entrepreneur in a commercial field that doesn’t belong to the liberal professions.
Depending on your business, you’ll have to apply for a visa as one or the other.
What are the visa requirements?
The application process for a self-employed visa is basically the same regardless of your type of business. However, there are some differences in the requirements that you have to meet. Below is a short primer.
Freiberufler: Liberal professionals
If you want to start a business as a liberal professional, known in Germany as a Freiberufler*in, you can apply for an Aufenthaltserlaubnis zur Ausübung einer freiberuflichen Tätigkeit (residence permit to pursue a liberal profession).
The first step is to get you an entry visa for Germany. Once you’re here, you can apply for a residence permit.
To do this, you have to show proof that:
- You can finance your business.
- You can cover your own living expenses (i.e., means to support yourself).
- You are licensed to practice in the profession in Germany and, therefore, have the right professional qualifications.
- If you’re 45+, an adequate retirement plan.
Gewerbetreibender: Commercial/trade business persons
Individuals who want to live and start a business in Germany and who don’t fall under the freie Berufe category can apply for an Aufenthaltserlaubnis zum Zweck der selbstständigen Tätigkeit (residence permit for self-employment).
To get a self-employment residence permit to set up a commercial, craft or industrial business, your business has to meet the conditions in Section 21 (1) of the Residence Act:
- There is an economic interest or a regional need for your product or service.
- Your business can be expected to have a positive impact on the economy.
- You can finance your business via equity capital or a loan.
- If you’re 45+, you must have an adequate retirement plan.
What happens after you get a visa?
The self-employment visa gets you into Germany. Next up, apply for an Aufenthaltserlaubnis zur Ausübung einer selbständigen Tätigkeit (residence permit for the purpose of self-employment).
Got questions about setting up a business in Germany?
- Startup expert
- 10+ years experience
Hi, I’m Andreas, and I’ve been advising businesses in Germany for over a decade. I’d be happy to call you and answer any questions you have in a one-on-one consultation.
The Master list of all Company Formation articles can be found here.
Conclusion
Securing a business visa for Germany is the first step toward building a professional future there. With the right preparation, proof of funds, and compliance with legal requirements, founders can quickly establish themselves. The key is understanding which category your work falls into and presenting a credible business plan. Careful planning opens the door to long-term success and economic opportunity.
