What is Freelance Visa in Germany: Eligibility Criteria and Documents Required; Check Here

Good news for individuals who want to live in Germany and not merely visit as tourists. Professionals who wish to extend their stay in Germany beyond a vacation or make living in peaceful winters in Berlin a reality can now apply for a Freelance Visa. The Freiberufler visa, also known as the freelance visa, is currently available in Germany and permits qualified individuals to live and work there on their own.

This visa gives non-EU nationals the opportunity to live and work in one of Europe's most vibrant economies, regardless of their profession, whether as a journalist, artist, consultant, or engineer, without being tied to a specific employer.

What is Germany’s Freelance Visa?

Professionals who work for themselves as freelancers are permitted to live and work in Germany for a maximum of one year, with the option to extend their stay with the Freelance Visa. This type of visa gives the professional flexibility and independence, unlike a typical one that ties one to a particular business. 

The only requirement for this visa is employment that fits Germany's definition of "liberal professions," professional credentials, and evidence of income.

A broad spectrum of specialists is qualified under Section 18 of Germany's Income Tax Act, including authors, photographers, architects, and therapists.

Who can Apply for Germany’s Freelance Visa?

According to German regulations, the following professional categories are eligible for this visa:

• Writers, interpreters, translators, and journalists

• Photographers, musicians, designers, and artists

• IT consultants, engineers, and architects

• Attorneys, tax advisors, notaries, and patent lawyers

• Physicians, dentists, therapists, and other health care providers

• Accountants, business advisors, and economists

• Pilots and some commercial scientists

Note: It's crucial to read the fine print issued by Germany because every profession may have unique requirements or call for registration with a local organization, such as the Foreigners' Office or Chamber of Commerce.

ALSO READ: Which Is the Wealthiest Country in Europe? It's not UK or Denmark

Documents Required for Freelance Visa

A good deal of documentation is required in the application procedure for this freelance visa. The following documents are typically needed for a freelance visa in Germany:

• A passport that has two blank pages, which was issued within the last ten years

• Authentic professional or academic credentials

• Evidence of financial resources, such as a minimum monthly salary of around €1,280 or Rs 1.27 lakh

• A detailed business profile or work plan

• Contracts or letters of intent from customers in the EU or Germany

• Valid health insurance for the entire stay

• Evidence of residence in Germany

• Evidence of retirement plans or pensions for people over 45 years old

• Receipt of visa fee (€75 or approximately Rs 7,500)

It must be noted that regular employment is not allowed under this visa. One will require an employer-sponsored work visa if they plan to work for a German company, whether on a part-time or full-time basis. Only independent professionals are eligible for the Freelance Visa.

ALSO READ: Top 10 Fastest-Growing Countries in the World by Population; Most of them are in Africa