Freelance Visa (§21 Freiberufler)
Self-employed professionals in liberal occupations such as artists, IT or consultants.
The Freelance Visa (§21 Freiberufler) is a German business, talent & investor visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (~€100 (residence permit)) and processing time (~2-4 months), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the Freelance Visa (§21 Freiberufler) is for
Self-employed professionals in liberal occupations such as artists, IT or consultants.
Settlement permit after 3 years with stable income.
Freelance Visa (§21 Freiberufler) - eligibility criteria
- Liberal profession (freier Beruf) activity
- Letters of intent or client commitments
- Proof of funds and income projections
- Relevant qualifications/portfolio
- Health insurance and (over 45) pension provision
Freelance Visa (§21 Freiberufler) cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the Freelance Visa (§21 Freiberufler) (Germany) is ~€100 (residence permit), with an indicative processing time of ~2-4 months. Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at Make it in Germany / BAMF.
| Type | Temporary |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | At a German consulate abroad (or inside for some) |
| Length of stay | Up to 3 years |
| Work rights | Freelance work in the approved field |
| Study rights | Permitted alongside freelancing |
| Government fee | ~€100 (residence permit) |
| Processing time | ~2-4 months |
| Route to PR | Settlement permit after 3 years with stable income. |
Pathway & next steps
Settlement permit after 3 years with stable income.
Many applicants also compare Self-Employed · Self-Employment Visa (§21 Selbständige Tätigkeit), Skilled Worker · Skilled Worker Visa (Fachkräfte, §18a/§18b), Niederlassung · Settlement Permit (Niederlassungserlaubnis). Run a free VisaChief check to see which German route best fits your profile, then prepare an application reviewed by a registered migration agency in our partner network.
Common Freelance Visa (§21 Freiberufler) pitfalls we fix
Freelance Visa (§21 Freiberufler) - frequently asked questions
How much does the Freelance Visa (§21 Freiberufler) cost?
The Freelance Visa (§21 Freiberufler) government fee is ~€100 (residence permit). Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at Make it in Germany / BAMF before applying.
How long does the Freelance Visa (§21 Freiberufler) take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~2-4 months. Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the Freelance Visa (§21 Freiberufler) lead to permanent residence?
Settlement permit after 3 years with stable income.
Can I work on the Freelance Visa (§21 Freiberufler)?
Work rights: Freelance work in the approved field.
Who can apply for the Freelance Visa (§21 Freiberufler)?
Self-employed professionals in liberal occupations such as artists, IT or consultants.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official Germany government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, fees and processing times change - always confirm the current rules with the issuing authority before you apply:
- Make it in Germany / BAMF - official Germany immigration authority