In 2025, Germany remains one of the most attractive countries for freelancers and self-employed professionals who want to live and work in Europe legally. Find out how to get a freelance visa to Germany in 2025: visa types, documents, cost, benefits and step-by-step instructions

Germany remains one of the most attractive countries in Europe for freelancers, self-employed people and digital nomads. Thanks to special visa programs, you can legally live, work and develop your career in the heart of the EU. In this guide, we will tell you how to apply for a freelance visa to Germany in 2025, what documents are required, what costs are foreseen and what prospects the freelancer status opens up.

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Visa options for freelancers in Germany

In 2025, two main types of visas are available for the self-employed:

- Freelancer visa (Freiberufler) - for representatives of the "liberal professions": writers, journalists, artists, IT specialists, doctors, translators, teachers, etc.

- Self-employed visa (Gewerbe) - for entrepreneurs, business founders, owners of online stores or consulting companies.

Both options allow you to legally reside in Germany, work for yourself and later apply for permanent residence.

Who can apply for a freelance visa to Germany?

Citizens of non-EU countries can apply for a freelancer or self-employed visa, including:

- USA, Canada, UK.

- Australia, New Zealand.

- India, South Africa, Brazil

And other countries whose citizens can prove their qualifications and financial capacity

If you have the right to enter Germany without a visa (up to 90 days), you can apply for a visa in the country. Otherwise, the application is submitted to the German embassy before entry.

What documents are needed?

Depending on your profession and nationality, the standard list of documents includes:

- Completed visa application form.

- Valid passport.

- Business plan or description of services.

- Portfolio (for artists, IT professionals, journalists).

- Proof of income or financial resources.

- Letters from potential clients (preferably from Germany).

- Health insurance.

- Pension plan (for applicants 45+ years old).

How to apply: step-by-step instructions

- Determine the type of visa: freelance or self-employed.

- Prepare documents according to the list above.

- Make an appointment at the consulate or visit the Ausländerbehörde (if already in Germany).

- Go through an interview, explain the essence of your activity, sources of income, plans in Germany.

- Wait for a decision - usually from 4 to 12 weeks.

Cost and validity of the visa

- Freiberufler - €80.

- Gewerbe - €90.

- Residence permit - up to €100.

- Permanent residence (settlement permit) – up to €147.

The basic visa is granted for up to 3 years. If the activity is successful, it can be extended, and after 5 years, you can apply for permanent residence in Germany.

Advantages of a freelance visa in Germany

- Official right to work for yourself and live in Germany.

- Visa-free travel within the Schengen zone.

- Access to German social services.

- Tax benefits for freelancers.

- Possibility of family reunification.

- Long-term prospects – the path to permanent residence.

Why choose Germany?

Berlin, Hamburg, Munich are not only powerful business centers, but also comfortable cities for digital nomads. Developed infrastructure, international communities, state support, a safe environment and proximity to other European countries - all this makes Germany a top destination for freelancers.

A freelance visa to Germany in 2025 is a real chance to combine the freedom of work with legal residence in the heart of Europe. Prepare your documents in advance, calculate your finances, and you can start a new stage of life - working freely in your favorite European city.

Need help with preparing documents or advice on choosing a visa type?

Contact Visit World migration lawyers - you will receive professional support at every stage: from analyzing your case to supporting you during the application process.

Reminder! Planning a trip to Germany in 2025? We have already talked about the current entry rules, types of visas, the most interesting tourist locations, useful tips for travelers and important safety recommendations. 

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Products from Visit World for a comfortable trip:

Checklist for obtaining a visa and necessary documents in Germany;

Legal advice on business issues in Germany;

Travel insurance for foreigners in Germany;

Medical insurance around the world.

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