Applying for an extension of a residence permit for self-employed professionals

• 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 responsible for processing the application.

To extend your residence permit, you must meet the same requirements as when you were first granted a residence permit. These are usually:

• You hold a recognised and valid identity document (for example, a passport or a passport substitute).
• You wish to work as a self-employed freelancer in Germany.
• You hold a valid licence to practise your profession, or have been assured by the relevant authority that such a licence will be granted to you, to the extent that this is necessary for the performance of your duties.
• You can provide evidence of adequate retirement provision if you have reached the age of 45.
• You can support yourself and maintain your health insurance cover without having to claim public benefits.
• There is no interest in deporting you.
• Their stay does not jeopardise or impair the interests of the Federal Republic of Germany.

In principle, renewing your residence permit requires you to submit the same documents as when it was first issued:

• Recognised and valid identity document (e.g. passport or passport substitute)
• Current biometric photo in passport format (45 x 35 mm)
• For regulated professions: authorisation to practise the profession or confirmation that authorisation will be granted
• Evidence of means of support (e.g. personal funds, blocked account, declaration of financial commitment)
• Proof of health insurance cover
• From the age of 45: evidence of adequate provision for old age (for example, evidence of personal assets, accrued pension entitlements, business assets)
• Current registration certificate
• In individual cases, the Immigration Authority may require less or more supporting documentation.

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

• § Section 8 (1) Residence Act (AufenthG)
• Section 21(4) of the Residence Act (AufenthG)
• Section 18(1) of the Income Tax Act

• 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