Self-Employed vs Freiberufler: which German visa is right for you?
Germany splits self-employment in two: the Self-Employment visa (Selbständige) for trade or business owners, and the Freelance visa (Freiberufler) for liberal professions like IT, design or writing.
Side-by-side comparison
| Feature | Self-Employment Visa (§21 Selbständige Tätigkeit) (Self-Employed) | Freelance Visa (§21 Freiberufler) (Freiberufler) |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Temporary | Temporary |
| Who it's for | Entrepreneurs setting up or running a business that benefits the German economy. | Self-employed professionals in liberal occupations such as artists, IT or consultants. |
| Government cost | ~€100 (residence permit); up to ~€147 for self-employed permits | ~€100 (residence permit) |
| Processing time | ~2-4 months | ~2-4 months |
| Length of stay | Up to 3 years | Up to 3 years |
| Where to apply | At a German consulate abroad | At a German consulate abroad (or inside for some) |
| Work rights | Self-employment in the approved business | Freelance work in the approved field |
| Pathway to PR | Settlement permit after 3 years if the business succeeds. | Settlement permit after 3 years with stable income. |
Which is right for you?
Self-Employment Visa (§21 Selbständige Tätigkeit) (Self-Employed)
Entrepreneurs setting up or running a business that benefits the German economy.
Full Self-Employed guide →Freelance Visa (§21 Freiberufler) (Freiberufler)
Self-employed professionals in liberal occupations such as artists, IT or consultants.
Full Freiberufler guide →Frequently asked questions
Which is cheaper, Self-Employed or Freiberufler?
On indicative 2025-26 government costs, Self-Employment Visa (§21 Selbständige Tätigkeit) (Self-Employed) is the lowest at ~€100 (residence permit); up to ~€147 for self-employed permits. Government fees change periodically - confirm before applying.
Which is processed faster, Self-Employed or Freiberufler?
Indicatively Self-Employment Visa (§21 Selbständige Tätigkeit) (Self-Employed) is the quickest at ~2-4 months. Actual timeframes depend on caseload and how complete your application is.
What's the main difference between Self-Employed and Freiberufler?
Self-Employment Visa (§21 Selbständige Tätigkeit) (Self-Employed) is for entrepreneurs setting up or running a business that benefits the German economy. Freelance Visa (§21 Freiberufler) (Freiberufler) is for self-employed professionals in liberal occupations such as artists, IT or consultants.