Applying for a residence permit for self-employed persons who have completed a degree or who work as academics or researchers

• Find out whether your foreigners authority allows you to apply online or has a special application form.
• If the application can only be submitted in person, make an appointment at the Foreigners' Registration Office. If you apply online, the Foreigners' Registration Office will contact you after receiving your application to arrange an appointment.
• During the appointment, your identity and documents will be checked (please bring your documents to the appointment, preferably in the original).
• If your application is approved, your fingerprints will be taken for the production of a new electronic residence permit (eAT card). The Foreigners’ Registration Office commissions the Bundesdruckerei to produce the eAT card. Once it is ready, you will be notified and can collect your residence permit from the relevant office. As a general rule, you must collect the eAT card in person.
• If your application is rejected, you will receive a rejection notice.

The immigration authority responsible for the applicant’s place of residence is the competent authority.

• You hold a recognised and valid identity document (for example, a passport or passport substitute) and, if required for entry, a suitable visa.
• You wish to work as a self-employed freelancer in Germany.
• You can support yourself and maintain your health insurance cover without having to claim public benefits.
• If you have reached the age of 45: You can provide evidence of adequate provision for your retirement.
• There is no interest in deporting you.

Their stay does not jeopardise or impair the interests of the Federal Republic of Germany.

• Recognised and valid identity document (e.g. passport or passport substitute)
• Visa, if required for entry
• Current biometric photo in passport format (45 x 35 mm)
• For university graduates: proof of a degree from a state-recognised university or equivalent educational institution in Germany
• For academics and researchers: current employment contract
• Evidence of means of support (e.g. personal funds, blocked account, declaration of financial commitment)
• Proof of health insurance cover
• Current registration certificate
• After reaching the age of 45: evidence of adequate provision for old age (for example, evidence of personal assets, accrued pension entitlements, business assets)

In individual cases, the Immigration Authority may require less or more supporting documentation.

• Section 45(2) of the Residence Ordinance (AufenthV)

• Section 21(4) of the Residence Act (AufenthG)

• Appeal against the decision of the Immigration Authority
• Action before the court named in the notice of objection if the objection is not upheld

Informal application possible: No

Personal appearance required: Yes

• The decision to grant a residence permit is at the discretion of the Immigration Authority.
• Self-employment is defined as any independent, lawful activity undertaken with a view to making a profit and intended to be of a certain duration, provided that it does not constitute an employment relationship.
• Scientists are people who are part of the scientific community; in essence, this refers to academic staff at universities and research institutions. Researchers also fall under the term ‘scientist’.
• Holders of a residence permit can obtain a permanent right of residence (settlement permit) under simplified conditions after just three years of successful self-employment.