Germany is well known around the globe for its rich history, vibrant city life, and scenic landscapes, from the romantic Rhine Valley to the fairytale castles of Bavaria, all mesmerizing there.
Germany Offering Freelance Visa
On top of that its robust economy with thriving creative sectors, and high quality of life makes it a favourite destination for travellers and creative professionals.
Considering all this, if you are dreaming about living in Germany then this is the perfect opportunity for you as the country offers a Freelance Visa for all non-EU residents, including Indians that you can apply for.
Freelance Visa is also known as the Freiberufler visa which is tailored for self-employed individuals.
With the help of this visa, one can work independently in the country without an employer as long as you have financial means.
Who Is Eligible To Get Germany’s Freelance Visa ?
Section 18 of the German Income Tax Act includes the following categories of freelance employment as the information provided in German Missions in India.
Independent scientists
Artists, teachers, or those with an educational work
Lawyers
Notaries
Patent agents
Surveyors
Engineers
Architects
Veterinarians
Commercial chemists
Accountants
Tax consultants
Consulting economists
Sworn accountants
Tax agents
Dentists
Non-medical practitioners
Physiotherapists
Journalists
Photojournalists
Interpreters
Translators
Pilots and other similar professions.
Requirements For Applying For Germany’s Freelance Visa
Besides employment, the applicant will need a valid passport, issued within 10 years of applying, and with at least two empty pages.
In addition to this, they need to provide proof of financial means for one year, including a minimal monthly income of approximately 1280.06 euros or about Rs 1,27,844 approximately (prices may change depending on the location, living costs, etc.).
They will also require proof of freelance work and proof of qualification, such as a University degree or higher education degree from a state or state-recognised institution.
They need valid health insurance and proof of business contacts in the relevant professional field in Germany/Europe.
It should have a well-structured and detailed description of your planned freelance employment in the curriculum vitae.
It needs to have a degree from a state or a state-recognised higher education institute or comparable training institution in Germany.
If an applicant is above 45 then they would require additional retirement benefits certificates, including a pension, owned assets, etc.
Please note that the passport-sized photos are not older than 6 months.
For getting this visa, a visa fee of 75 euros or Rs 7,486, approximately.
Steps To Apply For German Freelance Visa
Considering the application process for the German Freelance Visa for non-EU/EEA, the residence typically involves applying for a National D Visa from your home country before entering the country.
1) Firstly, complete the National D Visa application form with accurate information.
2) Now you need to save, download, and print a copy of the form.
3) Afterwards you need to make an appointment with a German embassy or consulate in your country to submit your application. (For example: German Missions in India)
4) Once that is done, you need to prepare the required documents which are mentioned above. You also need to check the language in which all documents are required to be submitted.
5) Next you need to visit the embassy or consulate to submit your application as the biometric data will also be submitted at this point.
6) After getting the National D Visa, it is valid for 3-6 months. The visa holder will have to register your address in Germany within two weeks of your arrival.
After completing this process, the visa holder needs to visit the local Foreigner’s office to apply for your residence permit as a freelancer or self-employed person.
