Germany offers a Freelancer visa, also known as the Self-Employment Visa, for freelancers to move to the country and work independently. The German Freelancer visa is a residence permit that permits non-EU nationals to reside and work in Germany as freelancers without being bound to a specific employer. The freelancer visa is of two types: the Freiberufler Visa for freelance employment and the Selbständiger Visa for self-employed. The German Freelance visa costs around €75 and is issued for 3 years with the possibility of extension. The visa acts as a pathway for permanent residency, allowing the visa holders to apply for a settlement permit after 3-5 years of living and working in Germany.
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What are the requirements for a German Freelance Visa?
To get a Freelance visa in Germany, you must meet the following requirements:
- An original and valid passport with at least 6 months of validity
- Two copies of the latest passport-sized photographs
- A fully-filled visa application form
- Proof of funds worth €10,000 or a sponsorship letter
- A valid medical insurance
- Proof of educational qualifications (Degree or diploma from a recognized university)
- Proof of professional experience
- An updated CV or resume
- Proof of accommodation in Germany
- Fee payment receipt
- Evidence of a retirement plan or pension funds (if you are above 45 years of age)
- For Business owners:
- A complete business plan
- Evidence of funds required for the business
- Evidence of registration (with the Trade Register)
*Want to work in Germany? Talk to experts at Y-Axis for end-to-end assistance with the process.
How to apply for a Freelance Visa in Germany?
You can follow the steps below to apply for a German Freelancer visa:
Step 1: Check if you are eligible for the German Freelancer Visa
Step 2: If yes, arrange the list of documents for the visa (You can refer to the above section)
Step 3: Schedule a visa appointment at the local German consulate or embassy.
Step 4: Attend the visa interview, submit the documents, and pay the visa application fees of €75
Step 5: Await the visa processing (may take around 6-10 weeks)
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