Source: BUS Sachsen-Anhalt (Linie6PLus)

Apply for a residence permit for self-employed persons who have completed their studies or are working as scientists or researchers

Description

If you have successfully completed your studies at a state or state-recognised university or comparable training institution in Germany or have a residence permit as a researcher or scientist, you can apply for a residence permit to carry out a self-employed activity.

The prerequisite for university graduates is the successful completion of studies that enable them to pursue a self-employed activity. Your intended self-employment must therefore be related to the knowledge you have acquired in higher education.

If you are in possession of a residence permit as a researcher or scientist, the desired self-employment must show a connection with your previous activity as a researcher or scientist.

The residence permit for the purpose of self-employment is a temporary residence permit. It is granted for a maximum of three years and may be renewed.

Prerequisites

You have a recognised and valid identity document (e.g. passport or passport substitute) and, if this was required for entry - an appropriate visa.
You want to pursue a self-employed, freelance activity in Germany.
You can secure your livelihood and health insurance coverage without using public benefits.
If you have reached the age of 45: You can prove that you have an adequate old-age pension.
There is no interest in expulsion against you.

Your stay does not endanger or impair the interests of the Federal Republic of Germany.

Required documents

Recognized and valid identity document (for example, passport or passport substitute)
Visa, if required for entry
Current biometric photo in passport format (45 x 35 mm)
For university graduates: proof of completion from a state-recognised university or comparable training institution in Germany
For scientists and researchers: previous employment contract
Proof of securing one's livelihood (e.g. equity, blocked account, declaration of commitment)
Proof of health insurance coverage
Current registration certificate
After reaching the age of 45: proof of adequate retirement provision (e.g. proof of own assets, acquired pension rights, business assets)

In individual cases, the Foreigners' Registration Office may require less or further proof.

Fees (costs)

Fee 100 EUR

Remark:

Additional fees may apply for the issuance of the residence permit in the form of an electronic residence permit, which can also be used as an electronic proof of identity.

(§ 45 No. 1 Residence Ordinance - Fees for the Residence Permit, the EU Blue Card, the ICT Card and the Mobile ICT Card

Deadlines

maximum 3

Remark (for further information on the deadline): At least 8 before the expiry of your still valid visa or residence permit, the application should be received by the Foreigners' Registration Office

Processing time

approx. 8 weeks

Note for further information on processing time:

The production of the electronic residence title by Bundesdruckerei takes about 4 to 6 weeks.

Legal remedy

Appeal against the decision of the Foreigners' Registration Office
Action before the court named in the notice of opposition if the objection is not complied with

Responsible body

The Foreigners' Registration Office responsible for the place of residence of the applicant is responsible.

Applications / Forms

Forms available: No

Written form required: Yes

Informal application possible: No

Personal appearance required: Yes

Procedure

Find out whether your immigration authority allows you to submit your application online or has a special application form.
If the application is only possible in person, make an appointment at the Foreigners' Registration Office. In the case of an online application, the Foreigners' Registration Office will contact you after receipt of your application to make an appointment.
During the appointment, your identity and documents will be checked (please bring your documents, preferably original, to the appointment).
If your request is granted, your fingerprints will be taken for the production of a new electronic residence title (eATKarte). The Foreigners' Registration Office commissions Bundesdruckerei to produce the eAT card. After completion, you will receive information and can pick up the residence permit at the responsible office. The eAT card must always be picked up in person.
If your application is rejected, you will receive a rejection notice.

Further information

The issuance of a residence permit is at the discretion of the Foreigners' Registration Office.
Self-employment is any self-employed, permitted, profit-making and long-term activity, unless it is an employment relationship.
Scientists are persons who belong to the scientific community, i.e. essentially the scientific staff of universities and research institutions. Researchers also fall under the concept of scientist.
Holders of the residence permit can obtain a permanent right of residence (settlement permit) after three years of successful self-employment under simplified conditions.