Residence permits for self-employed persons in Germany: new opportunities and prospects

Germany continues to improve conditions for self-employed professionals, opening up new opportunities for entrepreneurs and freelancers from different countries.

Thanks to new changes in immigration policy, talented foreign specialists who can contribute to the development of Germany's economy and culture can easily obtain a residence permit.

A residence permit for self-employed persons in Germany gives citizens of countries outside the European Union (EU) and the European Economic Area (EEA) legal status to live and work in Germany. This document allows them to run their own business or provide services as a freelancer.

The list of main areas of self-employment for which a residence permit can be obtained includes:

• Entrepreneurs: start-up founders, company owners, and managers.
• Freelancers: writers, artists, engineers, architects, medical professionals, and teachers.
• Legal and medical experts: lawyers, notaries, tax consultants, and dentists.
• Language specialists: translators, foreign language teachers, and interpreters.
• Creative professionals: musicians, designers, journalists, and filmmakers.

According to the new rules of 2025, the validity of a residence permit can be extended to three years with the possibility of further extension upon successful implementation of business plans. An accelerated path to citizenship has also been introduced — after five years of legal residence or three years of successful integration. In addition, the new reforms allow you to retain your citizenship when obtaining German citizenship. It is possible to apply for a German “Chancenkarte”, which is intended to help you find a job before starting your own business.

Germany continues to attract enterprising people from all over the world, offering them new opportunities to realize their professional ambitions.

Applications for a residence permit for self-employed persons can be submitted at any time in 2025. However, it is recommended to make an appointment with the embassy or immigration office in advance to submit your application.

For more detailed information on the process of obtaining a residence permit for self-employed persons in Germany, we recommend that you contact our specialists — we are ready to assist you at every stage.

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