You can extend your temporary residence permit for freelancers if you wish to continue working as a freelancer in Germany. 

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

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 advisors).

If necessary, you must submit a current professional license again.

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

• You have a recognized and valid identity document (e.g., passport or passport substitute).
• You want to pursue self-employed, freelance work in Germany.
• You have a valid professional license, if this is necessary for the pursuit of your occupation, or you have been assured by the competent authority that you will be granted a license.
• You can prove that you have adequate retirement provisions if you are over 45 years of age.
• You can cover your living expenses and health insurance without using public benefits.
• There is no interest in expelling you.
• Your stay does not jeopardize or impair the interests of the Federal Republic of Germany.

• Find out whether your immigration office allows you to apply online or provides a special application form.
• If you can only apply in person, make an appointment with the immigration office. If you apply online, the immigration 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, preferably the originals, with you to the appointment).
• If your application is approved, your fingerprints will be taken for the production of a new electronic residence permit (eAT card). The immigration office will order the production of the eAT card from the Federal Printing Office. Once it is ready, you will be notified and can pick up your residence permit from the relevant office. The eAT card must always be picked up in person.
• If your application is rejected, you will receive a rejection notice.

• Appeal against the decision of the immigration authorities
• Action before the court named in the notice of objection if the objection is not upheld

The application should be received by the immigration office at least 8 months before your current residence permit expires.

The residence permit is usually extended for the duration of the freelance activity.

Appeal period: 1 month

Processing time: approx. 8 weeks

It takes approximately 4 to 6 weeks for the Federal Printing Office to produce the electronic residence permit.

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

In principle, the renewal of your residence permit requires the submission of the same documents as for the initial issuance:

• Recognized and valid identity document (e.g., passport or passport substitute)
• Current biometric photo in passport format (45 x 35 mm)
• For regulated professions: Permission to practice the profession or confirmation of approval
• Proof of sufficient funds to cover living expenses (e.g., equity capital, blocked account, letter of commitment)
• Proof of health insurance coverage
• From the age of 45: Proof of adequate retirement provision (e.g., proof of own assets, acquired pension entitlements, business assets)
• Current registration certificate
• In individual cases, the immigration office may require less or more evidence.

Cost:

• 96.00 for an additional stay of up to three months
• 93.00 for an additional stay of more than three months

Note:

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.

Forms available: No

Written form required: Yes

Informal application possible: No

Personal appearance required: Yes