Freelance and self-employed

§ 21 AufenthG: freelancers, artists, founders; what the law requires.

The law distinguishes freelance (liberal professions) from trade/business. You apply from Nigeria with a national visa: Visa and embassy.

The residence permit (§ 21 AufenthG)

• Business (§ 21 (1)): economic interest or regional need, positive effects on the economy and secured financing.
• Freelance (§ 21 (5)): permit "may" be granted without the conditions of (1); a required licence to practise must be granted or promised.
• Age over 45: adequate pension provision (§ 21 (3)). Duration at most 3 years; settlement after 3 years under conditions (§ 21 (4)).

Source: § 21 AufenthG.

Practice

• The tax office decides in practice who is a freelancer. Documents the Berlin office asks from freelancers were not checked; see the checklist at berlin.de/einwanderung.
• Health insurance is mandatory: Health.
• Whether the Lagos consulate asks for a prior statement of the Berlin authorities was not confirmed.