Apply for a residence permit for self-employment

You meet the general requirements to obtain a  residence permit and can also prove the following requirements:

• If you are over 45 years old, you must have an adequate retirement plan.
• There is an economic interest or regional need for your activity.
• Your activity is expected to have a positive impact on the economy.
• You have equity or a loan commitment to finance the implementation.
• Your livelihood and health insurance are secured.

The competent body obtains assessments from expert institutions to clarify whether the planned activity meets the necessary requirements (e.g. from trade authorities, professional bodies under public law such as the Chamber of Industry and Commerce and Chamber of Crafts and the authorities responsible for professional licensing).

Note: For freelance activities, you must meet the following requirements and you will need:

• The necessary permits for the practice of the liberal profession or at least the promise of their granting.
  
• You have successfully completed your studies at a state or state-recognized university or a comparable educational institution in Germany. The intended self-employed activity must have a connection with the knowledge acquired during your studies.
  
• You have a residence permit as a researcher or scientist for the purpose of research The intended self-employed activity must have a connection with your scientific activity or your research activity.

If you are applying for a residence permit for the first time:

To ensure a quick and smooth process, you must submit the following documents:

• Passport
•  Digital photo
• Valid entry visa for self-employed work
• completed registration form
• Completed application for a residence permit
• Proof that your livelihood is secured
• Proof of health insurance
• Proof of accommodation, rental agreement
• Questionnaire for self-employed persons

Proof that you meet the financial requirements, in particular

• Proof of the investment project
• Proof of financing
• Business plan

Depending on the activity: proof of professional licenses (e.g. restaurant license, entry in the register of craftsmen)

If you are older than 45 years: Proof of adequate pension provision

If you are applying for an extension of your residence permit:

• Passport
•  Digital photograph
• Completed application for a residence permit
• Proof that your livelihood is secured
• Proof of health insurance
• Proof of accommodation, rental agreement

Proof of fulfillment of the economic requirements, in particular

• Profit and loss account
• Bank statements
• Tax assessment notices

NOTE: In addition to the points listed above, further requirements may need to be met. We can only process your application if you submit all documents in full.

You must apply before your visa or residence permit expires.

Due to the large number of applications for a residence permit, longer processing times must be expected. We kindly ask you to refrain from making interim inquiries.

 Making an appointment with the foreigners authority (opens in a new tab)

Residence permit first issuance

Costs: 100 Euro

Additional information: Fees for minors are half.

Residence permit longer-term stay

Costs: 100 Euro

Further information: Fees for minors are half.

Extension of residence permit up to 3 months (32-41)

Cost: 96 euros

Additional information: For minors, half of the fee applies.

Extension of residence permit over 3 months (32-41)

Cost: 93 Euro

Additional information: For minors, fees amounting to half.

 welcome.stuttgart.de (opens in a new tab)

In order to obtain a registration certificate, you must register your residence at a citizens' registration office:  Register Residence.