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Glossary: Visa for self-employed individuals
Category: Visa & Residence Permits (Residence title as a temporary visa or temporary residence permit according to § 4 para. 1 sentence 2 no. 1, no. 2 AufenthG )
Author: Mirko Vorreuter , LL.B. , Attorney at Law and Specialist Attorney for Immigration Law (License examination via the Federal Official Directory of Lawyers possible)
Image description: The image shows a binding template for a visa for self-employment in the form of a so-called " electronic residence permit (eAT) " as defined in Section 78 of the German Residence Act (AufenthG ) (applicable when issued domestically by the immigration authorities). The template is based on Council Regulation (EC) No. 1030/2002 of 13 June 2002 on the uniform format of residence permits for third-country nationals , which is regularly updated. In exceptional cases, the visa for self-employment can also be issued as an adhesive label ("visa sticker") by the immigration authorities and affixed to the passport , in accordance with Section 78a of the German Residence Act. Unlike the electronic residence permit, the corresponding template for the adhesive label is not regulated under European law in Regulation (EC) No. 1030/2002, but nationally in Annex D14 of the German Residence Ordinance (AufenthV) (residence permits pursuant to Section 4 Paragraph 1 Nos. 2 to 4 of the German Residence Act ).
If the visa for self-employment is not issued as an electronic residence permit by the immigration authorities in Germany, but rather as a visa by German diplomatic missions abroad, the template for the self-employment visa is governed by Regulation (EC) No. 1683/95 on a uniform visa format . Regulation (EC) No. 1683/95 on a uniform visa format has been transposed into German law by Section 59 of the Residence Ordinance (AufenthV) . The visa stamp is printed in Annex D13a of the Residence Ordinance .
When applying for a visa for self-employed individuals, the scope of the self-employment must be specified in the "Remarks" field (or on the supplementary sheet) (e.g., "Self-employment permitted as/at/for…"). In addition, the following supplementary provision is often included: "Employment permitted only with the permission of the immigration authorities. Expires upon termination of self-employment as…". In principle, the supplementary provision should describe the activity as precisely as possible, not only by company name but also by business sector.
The residence permit for self-employed persons is issued with the additional provision "In case of an application for benefits under SGB II/XII, the benefit provider must notify the LEA (State Office for Immigration and Asylum) in accordance with Section 87 of the Residence Act" as well as the resolutory condition "Expires upon cessation of valid health insurance coverage " and "Expires upon receipt of benefits under SGB II or SGB XII or AsylbLG (Asylum Seekers' Benefits Act)." Under "Remarks," the substantive validity period of the visa must also be entered if it differs from the formal validity period (e.g., due to an expiring passport ("License substantively valid until…").
Table of contents
1. What does a visa for self-employed people look like (image)?
2. Definition of self-employment visa (§ 21 AufenthG)
3. Who needs a visa for self-employed individuals?
4. Example: Visa for self-employed persons (§ 21 AufenthG)
5. Important information on the self-employment visa (§ 21 AufenthG)
5.1 Duration of self-employment visa
5.2 Visa extension for self-employed persons
5.3 Visa costs for self-employed individuals
5.4 Processing time for visas for self-employed persons
5.5 Authority responsible for visas for self-employed persons
6. Rights and opportunities Self-employment visa (§ 21 Residence Act)
6.1 Work permit with visa for self-employed persons
6.2 Study, school, language course with visa for self-employed persons
6.3 Family reunification with a self-employment visa
6.4 Travel and stays abroad with a self-employment visa
6.5 Eligible group of persons for a visa for self-employed persons
7. Requirements for a visa for self-employed persons (§ 21 Residence Act)
8. Required documents for a visa for self-employed persons (§ 21 AufenthG)
9. Apply for a self-employment visa online
10. Advantages of a visa for self-employed individuals
11. Consolidation of residence with a visa for self-employed persons (§ 21 AufenthG)
11.1 Path from self-employment visa to permanent residence permit
11.2 Path from visa for self-employed persons to naturalization
11.3 Next steps Visa for self-employed persons
12. Legal basis for visas for self-employed persons
13. Important laws regarding visas for self-employed individuals
14. Important rulings on the self-employment visa
15. Frequently Asked Questions about the Self-Employment Visa
16. Further information § 21 Residence Act
16.1 Visa for self-employed persons in other glossaries
16.2 Related Topics
16.3 Blog posts about visas for self-employed people
16.4 Glossary entries for the visa for self-employed persons
16.5 Sources and references for the self-employment visa
Definition of self-employment visa
The visa for self-employed persons pursuant to Section 21 Paragraph 1 of the German Residence Act (AufenthG ) (also: self-employment visa, entrepreneur visa, GmbH visa, trade visa, representation visa, entrepreneur visa, start-up visa , investor visa ; legally correct: residence permit for the exercise of self-employed commercial activity; English: Self Employment Visa/Business Visa/GmbH Visa/Commercial Visa/Trade Visa/Representation Visa/Entrepreneur Visa/Start Up Visa/Investor Visa/Residence Title for Self Employment) is a temporary residence permit for the purpose of exercising self-employed commercial activity (Section 4 of the German Residence Act) in Germany. In a narrower sense, the term "visa for self-employed persons" refers only to the visa for the purpose of engaging in self-employment ( § 4 para. 1 sentence 2 no. 1 of the German Residence Act), but not to the residence permit for the purpose of engaging in self-employment (§ 4 para. 1 sentence 2 no. 2 of the German Residence Act). In a broader sense, the term "visa for self-employed persons" encompasses all residence permits for self-employment purposes, i.e., both the self-employment visa (application from abroad, § 6 para. 3 of the German Residence Act ) and the residence permit for self-employed persons (application from within Germany, § 7 of the German Residence Act ).
The terminology surrounding visas for the self-employed is used very inconsistently, which even within the field leads to frequent confusion regarding the applicable regulations and requirements. The most important distinction for visas for the self-employed lies in whether the activity is a freelance profession (e.g., doctors, lawyers, artists; so-called "freelancer visa") or a commercial activity (trading). For freelancers, the requirements for obtaining a visa are significantly less stringent according to Section 21 Paragraph 5 of the German Residence Act (AufenthG ). In particular, there is no requirement to demonstrate an economic interest or regional need, as is otherwise the case for the self-employment visa according to Section 21 Paragraph 1 of the German Residence Act (AufenthG). Therefore, if possible, the freelance visa should be applied for first.
Who needs a visa for self-employed individuals?
A visa for self-employed persons is required by all non-European foreigners who wish to pursue self-employed commercial activity in Germany. Therefore, the requirement to hold a work permit ( § 4a para. 1 of the German Residence Act ) applies not only to dependent employment subject to instructions but also to independent self-employment. A strict distinction is made between self-employed individuals engaged in trade ( § 21 para. 1 of the German Residence Act ) and self-employed professionals (§ 21 para. 5 of the German Residence Act). Generally, less stringent requirements apply to self-employed professionals for obtaining a visa; however, the self-employed professional visa also has less favorable legal consequences (e.g., later access to a permanent residence permit pursuant to § 21 para. 4 sentence 2 of the German Residence Act).
Example: A Russian national comes to Germany to set up his own SAS company in Berlin with a self-employed visa.
Important information about the self-employment visa
Duration of self-employment visa
The visa for self-employed individuals in the narrower sense for initial entry pursuant to Section 6 Paragraph 3 of the German Residence Act ( D visa for self-employment) is usually issued for a period of 6 to 12 months (see Visa Handbook ). Residence permits for self-employment within Germany are generally limited to a period of two years (residence permit for self-employment). However, the duration of a visa for self-employed individuals also depends significantly on how promising the self-employment venture is considered by the authorities.
Extension of self-employment visa
The self-employment visa can be extended (as a residence permit ) if the requirements for its issuance continue to be met. The immigration authorities may, if necessary, review the business's success.
Cost of self-employment visa
The fee for issuing a national visa for self-employed individuals (category "D") is €75, and for extending a national visa (category "D") it is €25 (§ 45 para. 2 of the German Residence Ordinance). If the visa for self-employed individuals is applied for in Germany at the immigration office (residence permit for self-employment), the fee is €100 (§ 45 no. 1 of the German Residence Ordinance). In addition, self-employed foreigners must pay fees for registration with the trade office , the commercial register , the transparency register , and the tax office . Legal fees, potential court costs , and translation and authentication costs may also apply, depending on the specific case.
Processing time for self-employment visa
Visas for self-employed individuals are generally processed more quickly than humanitarian and family reunification visas upon initial issuance, as economic migration to Germany (from most countries) is encouraged. This is especially true for applications for visas for self-employed individuals from IT companies . The city of Berlin, in particular, is actively seeking to attract these companies to promote itself as a digital business hub. To this end, Berlin has even established a dedicated company called Berlin Partner , which, among other things, aims to expedite visa applications from digital entrepreneurs. With a partnership with Berlin Partner , the processing of a visa application for self-employed IT entrepreneurs in Berlin can be completed within a few weeks. In all other cases, the processing time typically averages between three and nine months, depending on the issuing authority and the quality of the submitted documents. Factors also play a significant role, including the necessary internal approvals for the success assessment or expert opinion, and the efficiency of the relevant internal departments. It is also crucial whether the visa for self-employed individuals is applied for as a residence permit at the embassy abroad or at the immigration office in Germany. After three months, an action for failure to act can be filed to expedite the application for a self-employment visa ( § 75 VwGO ).
Competent authority for self-employment visas
According to Section 71 Paragraph 2 of the German Residence Act (AufenthG ), the German missions abroad authorized by the Federal Foreign Office are responsible for issuing D visas for self-employment. If the visa for self-employment is to be applied for within Germany ( residence permit for self-employment), the immigration authorities are responsible (Section 71 Paragraph 1 AufenthG). The so-called expert bodies are responsible for internal approval within the framework of the success prognosis pursuant to Section 21 Paragraph 1 AufenthG ; however, these bodies differ depending on the type of business (e.g., the Chamber of Industry and Commerce for commercial trades, the Chamber of Architects for architects, or the Chambers of Skilled Crafts for skilled trades).
Rights and opportunities for self-employment visas
Work permit Self-employment visa
A visa for self-employment generally only authorizes the holder to engage in the specific type of work for which it is issued. In some cases, self-employment as a whole is permitted (“work permitted”). Dependent employment is generally not allowed with a visa for self-employment. However, exceptions may exist if the holder of the self-employment visa is also a managing director bound by instructions.
Studies , school , language course, self-employment visa
Attending university, school, and language courses is possible with any residence permit, including a self-employment visa. No separate permit is required.
Family reunification Self-employment visa
Family reunification with the holder of a self-employment visa is generally always possible (§ 29 para. 1 no. 1 of the German Residence Act ). In practice, however, a significant problem arises with family reunification with self-employed individuals in proving their means of subsistence , as this is primarily demonstrated through tax documents (audit report and business analysis ), which can sometimes be complex to prepare or obtain.
Travel and stays abroad Self-employment visa
Entry to and exit from Germany is straightforward with a self-employment visa, as long as the visa is valid . A certificate of fictitious residence is required for travel with an expired self-employment visa. Stays abroad of up to six months are permitted with a self-employment visa ( § 51 para. 1 no. 7 of the German Residence Act ). However, the self-employment visa expires even before the six-month period if the departure is for a non-temporary reason (§ 51 para. 1 no. 6 of the German Residence Act). The strongest indication of a non-temporary reason for departure is the deregistration of one's residence (so-called registration gap).
Eligible group of people for a self-employment visa
All non-European foreigners (third-country nationals) who wish to establish a business or subsidiary in Germany are eligible to obtain a visa for self-employment ( § 21 AufenthG ). Permanent residence in Germany is required to apply for a visa for self-employment. Foreigners already residing in Germany must apply for a residence permit for self-employment instead of a visa for self-employment, although the two terms are sometimes used synonymously. European citizens do not need a visa for self-employment, as they can exercise their right to freedom of movement (freedom of establishment) .
Visa requirements for self-employed individuals
The requirements for a visa for self-employed persons are regulated in Section 21 Paragraph 1 of the Residence Act . The requirements for issuing a visa for self-employed persons are as follows:
There is an economic interest or a regional need in carrying out the activity ( § 21 para. 1 sentence 1 no. 1 AufenthG )
The activity is expected to have a positive impact on the economy ( § 21 para. 1 sentence 1 no. 2 Residence Act )
The financing of the implementation is secured by equity capital or by a loan commitment (§ 21 para. 1 sentence 1 no. 3 AufenthG)
All necessary approvals from the authorities have been obtained (trade authorities, professional associations, expert bodies).
If the applicant is older than 45 years: adequate old-age provision (§ 21 para. 3 Residence Act; exceptions exist for certain nationals such as USA and Japan)
The authority exercises its discretion favorably for the applicant (visa for self-employed persons is a discretionary decision).
Income from self-employment is sufficient to secure one's livelihood ( § 5 para. 1 no. 1 AufenthG )
The immigration authority approves the issuance of the visa ( § 31 para. 1 sentence 1 no. 2 a) AufenthG )
Full health insurance (“substitutive” health insurance according to § 2 para. 3 of the Residence Act )
Valid passport and verified identity (§ 5 para. 1 no. 1a, no. 3 Residence Act)
No ongoing investigations/no pending criminal proceedings against the applicant (see Section 79 Paragraph 2 of the Residence Act )
No grounds for deportation (no negative AZR/SIS/VIS entries ), no security risk, no criminal record (§ 5 para. 1 no. 2, no. 3 AufenthG) and no entry ban ( § 11 AufenthG )
No specific grounds for refusal (e.g., Section 10 of the Residence Act ) and no grounds for expiry ( Section 51 of the Residence Act ) exist.
For initial applications for a residence permit within Germany: Legal first entry with a visa in accordance with Section 5 Paragraph 2 of the Residence Act (unless a national of a "Best Friends" country , Section 41 of the Residence Ordinance )
A particular focus when examining the requirements for a self-employment visa is on the viability of the self-employment activity and the forecast of income stability to secure the applicant's livelihood . The assessment of these requirements is based, in particular, on the foreigner's entrepreneurial experience, the amount of capital invested, the impact on employment and training, and the contribution to innovation and research . In this context, the expert opinion of the local professional chambers (usually the Chamber of Industry and Commerce (IHK) ) is of particular importance. The necessary approvals may be waived in certain cases if international law provides for this ( § 21 para. 2 of the German Residence Act).
Required documents for a visa for self-employed individuals
The necessary documents for self-employment overwhelm many aspiring entrepreneurs, as the bureaucratic hurdles in Germany are very high. One problem with the visa for self-employment is that not only the visa application documents must be submitted, but also all commercial and corporate documents required for setting up the business. For foreigners unfamiliar with German commercial law, compiling all these documents completely and accurately is almost impossible, which is why a visa for self-employment often requires the assistance of an expert (e.g., a specialist lawyer in immigration law ). Another major problem with the visa for self-employment is that many entrepreneurs don't know which legal form their company should have (e.g., GmbH, UG, sole proprietorship, OHG, GbR, or KG). This knowledge is essential to understand the applicable commercial law requirements. These requirements, in turn, determine which documents must be submitted with the visa application.
Generally, the following documents are required to apply for a visa for self-employed individuals:
1. VIDEX application form including instructions pursuant to Section 54 of the German Residence Act (AufenthG) , completed and signed in English or German (application for a self-employment visa via the international portal is usually not possible); application form for the issuance of a residence permit if the visa is applied for in the form of a residence permit within Germany.
2. Valid passport (valid for at least 3 months after planned departure from Germany, the passport must have at least 2 blank pages and must have been issued within the previous 10 years)
4. Business registration with the locally responsible trade office
5. Financing plan including capital requirements plan and profitability forecast
6. Incorporation agreement from a notary public with deed number, if the company is being founded in the form of a legal entity (e.g., GmbH)
7. Articles of Association, if the company is founded in the form of a legal entity (e.g., GmbH)
8. Appointment as managing director if the company has been founded in the form of a legal entity (e.g. GmbH)
9. Managing Director Service Contract, if the company has been founded in the form of a legal entity (e.g., GmbH)
10. Extract from the commercial register or registration for it via the notary, if the company has been founded in the form of a legal entity (e.g. GmbH)
10. Tax registration with the tax office
11. Proof of adequate retirement provision from the age of 45 ( § 21 para. 3 Residence Act ); alternatively, an insurance offer from a private pension insurance company can be submitted; there are exceptions for certain nationals (e.g. USA and Turkey ).
12. Proof of health and accident insurance in accordance with EU standards (valid for the entire EU; minimum coverage: €30,000 including repatriation in case of illness or death; valid from the date of entry for the entire stay); voluntary insurance with statutory health insurance funds is not possible upon initial entry in accordance with Section 9 of the German Social Code, Book V (SGB V).
13. Other formalities:
Only required if applying through an authorized representative (e.g., a lawyer ): Power of attorney
When applying for a visa in a country other than the country of origin: valid residence permit of the respective country.
Fees for the residence permit
Photograph (passport photo) that complies with the standards of Regulation (EC) No 1683/95 ; see also sample photos of the Federal Foreign Office
Depending on the authority: Data protection declaration/Consent to data processing
If the foreigner's name in the submitted documents differs from the name in the passport : Certificate of name change
The extensive documentation required for a self-employment visa is one of the reasons why self-employed individuals generally prefer to apply for a freelance visa if possible. The freelance visa requires significantly fewer documents.
Apply for a visa for self-employed individuals online
The visa for self-employed individuals cannot currently (01/2026) be applied for online via the Federal Foreign Office 's international application portal . To apply for a visa for self-employed individuals, the VIDEX form must be completed according to the instructions on the website of the relevant German mission (embassy or consulate) and submitted at the appointment. The online application forms for visas for self-employed individuals can be found on the respective embassy websites as follows:
→ Apply for a visa for self-employed individuals from Great Britain online
→Apply for a visa for self-employed individuals from Canada online
→ Apply for a visa for self-employed individuals from Australia online
If you are already in Germany, the visa for self-employed persons can be applied for online as a residence permit at the immigration office as follows:
→ Apply for a residence permit for self-employed people in Berlin online
→ Apply online for a residence permit for self-employed individuals in Munich
→ Apply for a residence permit for self-employed people in Hamburg online
Advantages of a visa for self-employed individuals
Staying in Germany and multiple entries into Germany are possible.
Self-employment/ business start-up in Germany is possible.
Studying or taking a language course in Germany is possible with a visa for self-employed individuals.
The family may be brought to Germany under certain circumstances if the self-employment is successfully carried out.
Conversion of the visa for self-employed persons into a settlement permit after three years is possible ( § 21 para. 4 sentence 2 AufenthG ).
Applying for naturalization is possible with a visa for self-employed persons if the self-employed activity is successful.
From self-employment visa to permanent residence permit
With a self-employment visa, a permanent residence permit can be applied for after three years instead of five if the foreigner has been self-employed for three years and the current business activity, particularly due to its success and duration, suggests further sustainable business development, and if the foreigner's livelihood and that of their dependents living with them in the same household, to whom they are legally obligated to provide support, is secured by sufficient income ( § 21 para. 4 sentence 2 of the German Residence Act). The assessment of the success of the self-employment is therefore crucial if the self-employment visa is to be converted into a permanent residence permit. Self-employed individuals who wish to apply for a permanent residence permit after three years must therefore demonstrate to the immigration authorities that they have established themselves in the market and can now secure their livelihood independently. If this is not possible, an alternative application can be made for a normal settlement permit ( § 9 AufenthG ) or a permit for long-term residence in the EU ( § 9a AufenthG ) after 5 years, provided that the livelihood is secured and B1 language skills and sufficient integration are present.
The path from visa to self-employment to naturalization
Naturalization with a self-employment visa is possible, as the residence permit for self-employment is not excluded in Section 10 Paragraph 1 Sentence 1 Number 3 of the German Nationality Act (StAG) . In practice, however, naturalization with a self-employment visa is very challenging, as proving sufficient means of subsistence is difficult. The authorities regularly require numerous documents from a tax advisor for this purpose (e.g., an audit report and a business analysis ).
Next steps for a visa for self-employed individuals
The first step in applying for a visa for self-employed individuals should always be to verify that financing is secured (financing plan). Financing must be guaranteed for the entire duration of your stay in Germany and must cover not only business expenses but also your own living expenses ( § 5 para. 1 no. 1 of the German Residence Act ). Once financing is secured, you should prepare a business plan demonstrating that your business promotes the German economy or serves a regional interest ( § 21 para. 1 of the German Residence Act ). You may want to seek expert assistance (e.g., from a business consultant) in drafting a sufficiently comprehensive business plan. If you meet all the requirements, you should find out which documents are necessary for applying for the visa for self-employed individuals. Document requirements can be quite extensive, depending on your country of origin, and may include, for example, registration with German trade authorities and the company's founding documents. Once you have gathered all the necessary documents, you can apply for the visa at the relevant authority (e.g., online or in person). Our lawyers will be happy to advise you on the specific requirements and assist you with your application. → Book an appointment
Legal basis for visas for self-employed individuals
The legal basis for the visa for self-employed individuals is Section 21 Paragraph 1 of the German Residence Act (AufenthG ). According to Section 21 Paragraph 1 of the German Residence Act, a residence permit for the purpose of self-employment may be granted to a foreigner if there is an economic interest or a regional need, the activity is expected to have a positive impact on the economy, and the financing of the business is secured through equity capital or a loan commitment. In a broader sense, the legal basis for the self-employment visa includes the respective requirements for establishing a business and trade law.
Important laws: Visa for self-employed individuals
Trade Regulations (GewO)
German Commercial Code (HGB)
Important rulings on visas for the self-employed
The decisive factor for the difference between employment and self-employment is the characteristic of personal dependence and being subject to instructions ( BSG, judgment of 29.8.2012 – B 12 KR 25/10 R ).
It is not a requirement for a self-employment visa (entrepreneur visa) that the company creates 5 jobs (VG Berlin, decision of 20.01.2023, VG 17 K 86/22).
The granting of a residence permit under Section 21 Paragraph 1 of the German Residence Act requires more than the prognosis that the applicant can secure their livelihood through the planned self-employment. It requires "added value" for the domestic economy ( Administrative Court Stuttgart, Judgment of August 6, 2019 - 2 K 7356/18 ).
Managing one's own assets constitutes self-employment within the meaning of Section 21 of the Residence Act if it involves an active activity that goes beyond the mere passive holding of assets ( VG Berlin, judgment of 25.05.2022 - VG 12 K 215/21 V ).
A negative decision despite fulfillment of the legal requirements is only possible in atypical exceptional cases, for example, if there are serious doubts about the reliability of the foreigner or about the economic viability of his business concept (cf. VGH Mannheim BeckRS 2020, 31765 Rn. 78; VG Würzburg BeckRS 2022, 36377 Rn. 44).
Frequently Asked Questions about Visas for Self-Employed Persons
Can I obtain a visa for self-employed individuals?
Yes, it is possible to obtain a visa to pursue self-employment in Germany (entrepreneur visa according to § 21 of the German Residence Act). However, the hurdles are high for applicants from third countries: there must be an economic interest or a regional need for the activity, the project must be expected to have a positive impact on the economy, and financing must be secured through equity capital or a loan commitment (§ 21 para. 1 of the German Residence Act). Freelancers (e.g., artists, doctors, engineers; § 21 para. 5 of the German Residence Act) often have it somewhat easier, as the "economic interest" is not required for them.
What residence permits are available for self-employed individuals?
The primary residence permit for self-employed individuals is the residence permit under Section 21 of the German Residence Act (AufenthG). A distinction is made between self-employment as a tradesperson (Section 21, Paragraph 1) and freelance work (Section 21, Paragraph 5). For graduates of German universities or researchers, there are also simplified regulations under Section 21, Paragraph 2a of the German Residence Act. Self-employment can also be carried out with numerous other residence permits, provided they include the supplementary provision "gainful employment permitted" or "self-employment permitted." This is the case, for example, with the settlement permit, family reunification permits, and some Blue Cards.
Can I get a visa if I am self-employed?
If you are already self-employed abroad and wish to relocate your business to Germany or establish a branch here, you can apply for a visa (see Section 21 Paragraph 1 of the German Residence Act). A viable business plan and proof that you can cover your living expenses and operating costs are essential. Those over 45 years of age must also provide evidence of adequate retirement provisions (the monthly pension entitlement for 2026 is approximately €1,565). The documents should be sufficiently comprehensive, as the visa application for self-employed individuals is also reviewed by an expert body that assesses the viability of the business idea.
Is self-employment permitted with a residence permit?
That depends on the specific wording in your residence permit. Some residence permits generally allow "any gainful employment," which includes self-employment. However, if it states "Self-employment only with permission from the immigration authorities," you must apply for an amendment or supplement to your permit before you can start your business (§ 21 para. 6 of the German Residence Act). If in doubt, you should always refer to the supplementary provisions in your residence permit (found under "Remarks" or on the additional sheet).
When are foreigners allowed to start a business in Germany?
Foreign nationals may start a business if their residence permit explicitly allows them to engage in self-employment. EU citizens, as well as nationals of Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Norway, already enjoy freedom of trade and can start a business at any time. Within corporate structures, starting a business can also be part of a business trip (see Section 16 of the Employment Ordinance).
Visa for self-employed persons in other glossaries
The visa for self-employed persons can also be found in the following glossaries:
Sources and references for self-employment visas
( Government resources and literature )
[1] Visa Handbook, Self-Employment, Version: 06/2024
[3] Federal Ministry of the Interior and Community (BMI), Application guidelines for the Skilled Immigration Act, as of: Legal situation from 1 June 2024, § 21
[4] BeckOK AuslR/Breidenbach, 46th ed. 1.10.2024, AufenthG § 21 Rn. 1-21
[5] BeckOK MigR/Hänsle, 24th ed. 1.1.2026, AufenthG § 21 Rn. 1-36
[6] Bergmann/Dienelt/J. Nusser, Commentary on Immigration Law, 15th ed. 2025, Residence Act § 21
[7] Erbs/Kohlhaas/Hadamitzky/Senge, Strafrechtliche Nebengesetze (AufenthG), 259th ed. October 2025, § 21 para. 1
[8] Hofmann (ed.): NK-Ausländerrecht, 3rd ed. 2023, AufenthG § 21
[9] Dippe in Huber/Mantel, Residence Act/Asylum Act, 4th ed. 2025, Residence Act § 21
[10] Eichenhofer in Huber/Eichenhofer/Endres de Oliveira, AufenthaltsR | Part 1. Residence Act | 2nd edition 2025, 16. Residence permit for the purpose of self-employment (§ 21 AufenthG)
[11] Breidenbach in Kluth/Hornung/Koch, Immigration Law Handbook | § 4 Residence (Requirements, Purposes of Residence, Integration) Rn. 566-567 | 4th edition 2025, 13. Admission for self-employed persons pursuant to § 21 Residence Act
[12] BeckNotar-HdB/Zimmermann/Pogorzelski, 8th ed. 2024, § 28. Rn. 278
Last updated: February 20, 2026
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