By Admin, #OasisVisas 
From scenic castles in Bavaria to the buzzing streets of Berlin, Germany is a dream destination for many. With a strong economy, great lifestyle, and growing creative sectors, it’s no surprise that more and more professionals are considering Germany as a place to live and work.
If you’ve been wanting to move there, Germany offers a Freelance Visa that lets non-EU citizens including Indians live and work in the country. The visa is valid for 1 year initially and can be extended up to 3 years.
What Is Germany’s Freelance Visa?
Called the Freiberufler Visa, this visa is specially made for self-employed and freelance professionals. It allows you to work in Germany without needing a job offer from a local employer. You just need to show that you have the skills, qualifications, and financial means to support yourself.
Who Can Apply?
Germany’s freelance visa is open to professionals in fields like:
- Scientists and researchers
- Artists, teachers, and educators
- Lawyers and notaries
- Architects and engineers
- Tax consultants and accountants
- Journalists and photojournalists
- Interpreters, translators, and writers
- Pilots and medical professionals (like dentists, physiotherapists, etc.)
If your work falls under creative, educational, scientific, or technical fields, you may be eligible.
Documents Required
To apply, you’ll need:
- A valid passport (issued in the last 10 years, with 2 empty pages)
- Proof of financial means: You should show you can earn at least €1,280/month (around ₹1,27,844), depending on where you live in Germany
- Proof of freelance work (contracts, letters of intent from clients, etc.)
- Educational qualifications (like a university degree)
- Valid health insurance (public or private)
- Detailed business plan or description of your freelance activity
- Proof of contacts in Germany or Europe related to your work
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Passport photos (not older than 6 months)
- Retirement plan (for applicants above 45 years of age)
- Visa application fee of €75 (around ₹7,500)
How to Apply for Germany’s Freelance Visa
You must apply from your home country first by getting a National D Visa. Here’s how:
- Fill out the application form for the National D Visa and print it
- Book an appointment at your nearest German Embassy or Consulate
- Prepare all your documents carefully
- Attend the visa interview and submit biometrics
- Once approved, you’ll receive a visa valid for 3–6 months
- After arriving in Germany, register your local address within two weeks
- Then visit the local Foreigner’s Office to convert your visa into a long-term residence permit as a freelancer
Important Points to Remember
- The visa is usually valid for 1 to 3 years and can be renewed
- After 5 years, you may become eligible for permanent residency if you meet the language and financial requirements
- You must register with the local tax office and get a tax number for billing clients
Germany’s Freelance Visa is a great opportunity for professionals who want to work independently in Europe while enjoying a high quality of life. If you’re a creative or skilled worker with a plan, Germany could be your next home!