The German Freelancer Visa enables you to live and work in Germany as a freelancer. This visa process consists of two main components:
1. Freelancer (Entry) Visa: This is a National (D) Visa that you must apply for at the German Embassy in your home country. It is valid for only a few months but is necessary for entering Germany with the intention of working. Upon arrival in Germany, you will need to exchange this visa for a Freelancer Residence Permit.
2. Freelancer Residence Permit: After arriving in Germany with the entry visa, you must apply for this permit at the Ausländerbehörde (German Immigration Office). This permit allows you to live and work in Germany on a long-term basis, making the initial visa redundant.
There are two types of German Freelance Visas, depending on your occupation:
1. Visa for Freelance Employment (Freiberufler): This type of visa is for those in professions that positively impact German culture and economy. Eligible occupations include artists, writers, self-employed doctors, engineers, language teachers, interpreters, auditors, and architects.
2. Visa for Self-Employment (Selbständiger): This visa is for company founders, sole proprietors, or managing directors/legal representatives of partnerships or corporations. To qualify, you must demonstrate:
- Economic interest in Germany for your profession/business.
- Positive impact of your profession/business on the German economy.
- Financing of your profession/business through equity or a loan commitment.