Apply for a residence permit for the purpose of self-employment

To your locallocal immigration office

You can only be granted a residence permit if

• there is an economic interest or a regional need for the activity and
• the activity is expected to have a positive impact on the economy in Germany and
• the financing of the implementation is secured by equity capital or by a loan commitment.

If you have already reached the age of 45, appropriate old-age provision is also required.

Furthermore, the general granting requirements for a residence permit must be fulfilled.

These are in particular

• a secure livelihood,
• a clarified identity,
• possession of a valid national passport.

• Online procedure possible: no
• Written form required: no
• Personal appearance required: yes

• Valid national passport
• Proof of health insurance;
• Rental contract
• Curriculum vitae and proof of qualifications for previous activities and training (degree certificates, diplomas or certificates)
• Financing plan / business plan
• 1 current biometric photo
• Please enquire at the immigration office responsible for you whether you need to submit further documents.

You can only apply for a residence permit in person at the aliens' registration office responsible for your place of residence.

• You submit the required documents in the original and pay the application fee.
• The Aliens' Registration Office will check whether the conditions for issuing the permit are met.
• Other authorities may also be involved.
• If all requirements are met, the Aliens' Registration Office will take your biometric data (photo, fingerprints) and order the electronic residence permit (eAT) from Bundesdruckerei GmbH.
• As soon as the eAT is ready, it will be handed over to you by the Aliens' Registration Office.

Application before the expiry of the current residence title. It is recommended to apply 4 to 6 weeks before the current residence title expires.

The residence permit is issued for a maximum of 3 years.

The processing time depends on the workload at the locally responsible foreigners authority.

• § Section 21 Residence Act

• Administrative court action

Detailed information on how to file a lawsuit can be found in the decision rejecting your application.