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.
A residence permit can only be granted to you if
- there is an economic interest or a regional need for the activity, and
- the activity is expected to have a positive impact on the German economy, and
- the financing of the project is secured through equity capital or a loan commitment.
If you are already 45 years of age or older, adequate retirement provisions are also required.
Furthermore, the general requirements for granting a residence permit must be met.
These include, in particular:
- a secure means of support,
- a verified identity,
- possession of a valid national passport.
You can only apply for a residence permit in person at the Foreigners' Registration Office responsible for your place of residence.
- You must submit the required documents in their original form and pay the application fee.
- The Foreigners’ Registration Office will review whether the requirements for issuance are met.
- Other authorities may be involved as necessary.
- If all requirements are met, the Foreigners’ Registration Office will collect your biometric data (photo, fingerprints) and order the electronic residence permit (eAT) from Bundesdruckerei GmbH.
- As soon as the eAT is ready, the Foreigners’ Registration Office will issue it to you.
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 file 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.
