If you have successfully completed your studies at a state or state-recognized university or comparable educational institution in Germany or have a residence permit as a researcher or scientist, you can apply for a residence permit to work as a self-employed person.

The prerequisite for university graduates is the successful completion of a course of study that qualifies them for self-employment. Your intended self-employed activity must therefore be related to the knowledge you acquired during your university education.

If you are in possession of a residence permit as a researcher or scientist, the intended self-employed activity must be related to your previous activity as a researcher or scientist.

The residence permit for the purpose of self-employment is a temporary residence permit. It is issued for a maximum of three years and can be extended.