You can apply for a temporary residence permit to take up self-employment.
A residence permit is a title of residence. Residence permits are only issued for specific purposes, such as taking up self-employment.
The residence permit can only be granted to you if
- there is an economic interest or regional need for the activity and
- the activity is expected to have a positive impact on the German economy, and
- the financing of the implementation is secured by equity capital or a loan commitment.
If you are already over 45 years of age, adequate retirement provisions are also required.
Furthermore, the general requirements for a residence permit must be met.
These are, in particular:
- a secure livelihood,
- a clear identity,
- possession of a valid national passport.
You can only apply for a residence permit in person at the immigration office responsible for your place of residence.
- You must submit the original copies of the required documents and pay the application fee.
- The immigration office will check whether the requirements for granting a permit are met.
- Other authorities may also be involved.
- If all requirements are met, the immigration office will record your biometric data (photo, fingerprints) and order the electronic residence permit (eAT) from the Federal Printing Office.
- As soon as the eAT is ready, it will be handed over to you by the immigration office.
Section 21(1), (3), (4) sentence 1 of the Act on the Residence, Employment, and Integration of Foreigners in the Federal Territory (Residence Act – AufenthG)
Detailed information on how to lodge an appeal can be found in the notice rejecting your application.
- Administrative court action
Submit your application before your current residence permit expires. We recommend that you visit the office 4 to 6 weeks before your current residence permit expires.
The residence permit is issued for a maximum of 3 years.
The processing time depends on the workload at the local immigration office responsible.
