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Documents Self-employment Foreigners
You will need these documents to apply for a self-employed visa.
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which documents self-employed foreigners need in Germany
what form the documents need to be
which documents self-employed people need to secure their livelihood
Difference between freelancer and entrepreneur documents
1. Documents for self-employed persons
2. Forms of documents for self-employed persons
3. Documents for self-employed livelihood
4. Documents Freelancer & Entrepreneur Visa
5. FAQ
6. Conclusion
1. Documents Self-employment Visa
To apply for a self-employment visa (Section 21 of the Residence Act) in Germany, applicants must submit a comprehensive list of documents . The core documents include a valid passport , a recent biometric passport photo, and a fully completed and signed application form. Copies of relevant documents, such as the passport data page or proof of residence abroad, must also be submitted. German diplomatic missions abroad require that the documents be complete, legible, and, if possible, originals.
In addition, a detailed company profile is required, demonstrating the business idea and the economic viability of the project. This includes a business plan , a financing plan, a revenue forecast, and information on potential jobs or training opportunities. Depending on the company's legal form, the business registration or a commercial register extract must also be enclosed. Proof of valid health insurance is also mandatory and must be submitted no later than upon collection of the visa.
2. Forms of documents for self-employed persons
All documents for a self-employment visa must be submitted in a specific format to be recognized by the authorities. As a general rule, originals must be submitted along with copies . Certified translations into German are required if certificates or diplomas are not issued in German or English. For English documents, a translation is generally not required. However, this depends on the caseworker and their plausibility check .
Particular attention is paid to the format of the business plan : It must be structured, comprehensible, and plausible, and demonstrate that Germany as a business location will benefit from the foreigner's business. Capital requirements and financing plans should be based on current figures. Additional documentation, such as rental agreements or proof of home ownership, must be submitted in original form. In individual cases, the authorities may request additional documentation, so applicants should always be prepared.
3. Documents for self-employed livelihood
A key criterion for granting a visa is proof of financial security. Applicants must provide evidence of their ability to cover their living expenses, as well as housing and health insurance costs, independently. This can be demonstrated by bank statements, tax assessments, profit calculations by tax advisors, or relevant contracts. For individuals over 45, proof of adequate retirement provision is also required.
Proof of livelihood for self-employed foreign nationals can be provided through private pension or life insurance, proof of assets, or business assets . For certain nationalities, proof of retirement provision is waived if a corresponding bilateral social security agreement exists. Nevertheless, it is mandatory for the subsequent application for a permanent residence permit .
4. Documents for self-employed foreigners in Berlin
Applying for a residence permit for self-employment in Berlin under Section 21 of the Residence Act requires numerous documents that prove both personal identity and the viability of the business venture. Mandatory documents include a valid passport, a recent biometric passport photo, a fully completed application for a residence permit, and a CV with evidence of professional history, diplomas, and references. Furthermore, a detailed business plan is also required in Berlin, supplemented by a financing plan that demonstrates the project's financial viability. Depending on the company type, a commercial register extract or business registration must also be submitted. Proof of primary residence in Berlin, as well as a rental agreement or proof of ownership, are also required.
Additionally , proof of personal security plays a key role. Applicants must provide evidence of adequate health insurance, either through statutory health insurance or through private insurance that meets the requirements of Section 257 Paragraph 2a of the Social Code (SGB V). Foreign nationals over the age of 45 are also required to provide proof of retirement benefits in Berlin. For entrepreneurs, an audit report from a tax advisor, auditor, or qualified lawyer is often required. This ensures that the immigration authorities ensure that the project is viable for both the applicant and the Berlin economy.
5. FAQ Self-employment Visa Documents
Which documents are required for the self-employment visa?
In addition to a passport, application form and passport photo, a business plan, financing and revenue plans as well as proof of health insurance and housing are required.
Do all documents have to be translated into German?
Documents in German or English are accepted. If documents are in another language, a certified translation is required.
How do I prove my retirement savings?
This can be achieved through private pension insurance, proof of assets, or pension entitlements. Proof of entitlement is mandatory for those aged 45 and over.
6. Conclusion Self-employment Visa Documents
Applying for a self-employment visa in Germany requires extensive preparation and the complete submission of numerous documents. A business plan, proof of financial support, and health insurance coverage are particularly important. The main difference between freelancers and entrepreneurs is the audit report, which is mandatory for entrepreneurs. Those who submit all the documents completely, in the correct format, and well-organized significantly increase the chances of a smooth processing of their application.
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