Just Rs 7,500 to live and work in Germany? 'Freelance Visa' could be your ticket to Europe: Know full process and eligibility

The skyline of the Tiergarten neighbourhood is seen from the west in Berlin on April 24, 2025. (Photo by Odd ANDERSEN / AFP)

If you’ve ever wanted to live in Germany beyond a tourist trip, or turn those dreamy Berlin winters into a working reality, there’s some good news. Germany is now offering a Freelance Visa, officially known as the Freiberufler visa, that allows eligible individuals to live and work in the country independently.

Whether you're a journalist, artist, consultant, or engineer, this visa opens doors for non-EU citizens to build a life and career in one of Europe’s most dynamic economies, without being tied to an employer.

So, what is this visa about, who qualifies, and how can Indian applicants get started?

What is Germany’s Freelance Visa?

The Freelance Visa is a residence permit that allows self-employed professionals to live and work in Germany for up to one year, with a possibility of extension. Unlike a traditional job visa that binds you to a single employer, this one offers freedom and flexibility. The only conditions: proof of income, professional qualifications, and work that falls under Germany’s definition of “liberal professions.”

From writers and photographers to architects and therapists, a wide range of professionals are eligible under Section 18 of Germany’s Income Tax Act.

Who can apply?

Here are some of the professional categories recognised under German law for this visa:

• Journalists, writers, translators, and interpreters
• Artists, musicians, designers, and photographers
• Engineers, architects, and IT consultants
• Lawyers, notaries, tax advisers, and patent attorneys
• Doctors, dentists, therapists, and medical professionals
• Economists, business consultants, and accountants
• Pilots and certain commercial scientists
• Each profession may have its own conditions or may require registration with a local body like the Chamber of Commerce or Foreigners’ Office, so checking the fine print is essential.

The visa process involves a fair amount of paperwork. Here’s what’s typically required:

• A valid passport (issued within the last 10 years, with 2 blank pages)
• Academic or professional qualifications
• Proof of financial means (minimum monthly income of approx. €1,280 or Rs 1.27 lakh)
• A detailed work plan or business profile
• Letters of intent or contracts from clients in Germany or the EU
• Valid health insurance for the duration of stay
• Proof of address in Germany
• For those above 45: proof of pension or retirement plans
• Visa fee receipt (€75 or ~ Rs 7,500)

Indians must apply for a National D Visa to enter Germany for freelance purposes. Here's how:

• Fill out the D Visa application form from the official German Missions in India website.
• Book an appointment at the nearest German consulate (Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai, etc.).
• Collect and prepare all required documents in the prescribed format.
• Submit your application and biometric data in person.
• Once approved, your visa will be issued for 3–6 months.
• After arrival in Germany, register your address and apply for a long-term freelance residence permit within 2 weeks.

Yes. The visa broadly covers two categories:

Freiberufler (Freelancers): Those in liberal professions like journalism, education, therapy, or law.

Selbständiger (Self-Employed): Those running a business or offering trade-based services not falling under “liberal” categories.

The exact visa pathway depends on what you do and how your profession is defined under German law.

Can you work for a German company on this visa?

No. This visa is not meant for regular employment. If you intend to work for a German company -- whether part-time or full-time -- you will need a work visa tied to an employer. The Freelance Visa is exclusively for independent professionals.