You can obtain a residence permit for freelancers if you wish to pursue freelance work in Germany.  Freelance activities include self-employed scientific, artistic, literary, teaching, educational, or other independent professional activities in accordance with Section 18 (1) of the Income Tax Act (e.g., self-employed doctors, notaries, tax consultants).

If necessary, you must present a professional license. A professional license is a state license that allows individuals to work in a specific profession in Germany (e.g., healthcare professions, lawyers). If you do not yet have a professional license, it is sufficient to prove that you have been granted one.

• You have a recognized and valid passport or passport substitute and, if required for entry into Germany, an appropriate visa.
• There are no grounds for your expulsion.
• Your stay does not jeopardize or impair the interests of the Federal Republic of Germany.
• You want to pursue self-employed, freelance work in Germany.
• You have the necessary permission to pursue freelance work or have been assured that the relevant authority will grant you permission. 
• If you are over 45 years of age: You can provide evidence of adequate retirement provision.
• You can cover your living expenses and health insurance from your own resources without claiming public benefits.

The procedure is as follows:

• Depending on the immigration office and your request, it may be possible to apply online. Find out whether your immigration office offers electronic applications for residence permits.
• If the application can only be made in person, make an appointment with the immigration office. During the appointment, your application will be accepted and your supporting documents will be checked (bring these with you to the appointment). Your fingerprints will be taken for the production of an electronic residence permit (eAT card).
• If you apply electronically, the immigration office will contact you after receiving your online application to arrange an appointment at the immigration office if necessary. During the appointment, your supporting documents will be checked (please bring them with you to the appointment) and your fingerprints will be taken for the production of the electronic residence permit (eAT card).
• If your application is approved, the Immigration Office will arrange for the eAT card to be produced.
• After about six to eight weeks, you can pick up the eAT card at the immigration office.
• The eAT card must always be picked up in person.

Federal Government portal for skilled workers from abroad

https://www.make-it-in-germany.com/de/ueber-das-portal/kontakt/hotline/

An appeal against a decision by the immigration authorities may be lodged with the authority named in the decision within one month of notification of the decision. The appeal may be lodged in writing, in electronic form, or for recording.

If the Foreigners' Registration Office does not grant the appeal, legal action may be taken before the court specified in the appeal decision.

• The residence permit should be applied for at least eight weeks before your visa or current residence permit expires.
• The residence permit is issued for a limited period.
• Appeal period: one month

about six to eight weeks.

The immigration office responsible for the applicant's place of residence.

• Valid passport or passport substitute
• Visa, if required for entry into Germany
• Current biometric photo
• If applicable, permission to practice a liberal profession or confirmation that it will be granted
• Proof of sufficient funds to cover living expenses (e.g., equity capital, blocked account, letter of commitment)
• Proof of health insurance
• Current registration certificate
• If you are over 45 years of age: Proof of adequate retirement provision (e.g., proof of your own assets, acquired pension entitlements, business assets)

 In individual cases, the immigration office may request additional documents.

Issuance of residence permit: EUR 100.00

Under certain circumstances, a reduction or exemption from fees may be considered.

Notes:

• Additional fees may apply for the issuance of a residence permit in the form of an electronic residence permit, which can also be used as electronic proof of identity.
• The timing and form of fee collection and payment vary depending on the authority.

• Online procedures possible in isolated cases
• Written form required
• Personal appearance required