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Prerequisites

• The same requirements apply as when the residence permit was first issued.
• The validity of your current residence permit will expire in the near future.
• You want to continue your self-employed or freelance activity in Germany.
• Your independent activity continues to be related to the knowledge you acquired during your university education or during your work as a researcher or scientist.
• You can secure your livelihood without relying on public benefits.
• You can secure your health insurance coverage without relying on public benefits.
• If you are aged 45 or over: You can provide evidence of adequate retirement provision (does not apply to persons with Turkish nationality).
• There is no interest in deporting you.

Documents required

• Recognized and valid identity document (e.g. passport or passport substitute)
• Current biometric passport photo (45 x 35 mm)
• Description of the self-employed activity (business plan)
• Evidence of financing for the self-employed activity (e.g. proof of equity, financing commitment from a bank).
• Extract from the commercial register or business registration
• Evidence of securing livelihood (e.g. proof of income, equity, blocked account, declaration of commitment)
• Proof of health insurance coverage (e.g. confirmation of health insurance coverage or insurance policy).
• After reaching the age of 45: Proof of adequate retirement provision (e.g. proof of own assets, acquired pension entitlements, business assets)

In individual cases, you may be asked to provide additional documentation.

You may also need to provide the immigration authorities with proof of your degree from a state-recognized university or comparable educational institution in Germany or your old employment contract as a scientist or researcher in order to once again prove the connection between your previous activity and your business idea.

Please note

• After holding a residence permit for three years to pursue self-employment, a permanent residence permit (settlement permit) can be applied for under simplified conditions.
• For freelancers, different requirements apply for the extension of the residence permit and the receipt of a settlement permit.

Deadlines

You must submit your application before your current residence permit expires (4-6 weeks in advance is recommended).

Procedure

• Find out whether the office responsible for your application allows you to submit your application online or has a special application form. In Hamburg, the application can be submitted online.
• You submit your application.
• The responsible authority will examine your application and, if necessary, request any necessary documents or information from you.
• The responsible office will contact you to arrange an appointment.
• During the appointment, your identity and documents will be checked (please bring your documents, preferably in the original, with you to the appointment).
• If your application is approved, your fingerprints will be taken to produce a new electronic residence permit (eAT card).
• You pay the applicable fees.
• The Federal Printing Office will be commissioned to produce your new eAT card.
• Once completed, you will receive information and can collect the residence permit in the form of the eAT card in person.
• If your application is rejected, you will receive a rejection letter. In this case, you will also have to pay an administration fee.

Processing time

You should expect processing to take 6-8 weeks. If you submit all the required documents in full and well prepared, processing may be quicker. After approval, it will then take another 4-6 weeks for the Federal Printing Office to produce your electronic residence permit.

Fees

96.00 EUR for a further stay of up to three months


93.00 EUR for a further stay of more than three months

Legal remedies

You can appeal against a rejection within one month of notification.

Legal basis

Section 21 paragraph 2a Residence Act (AufenthG)




§ 8 Residence Act (AufenthG)




§ 5 Residence Act (AufenthG)