Dream job in Germany? Dh368 Freelance visa allows applicants to stay, work for up to 3 years
Here is your complete guide to unlock a year of living, working in Germany
Dubai: Dream of living and working in Europe? Germany offers multiple pathways for skilled workers, including the EU Blue Card, work visas, and a visa for experienced workers.
However, the unique freelance visa, also known as the ‘Freiberufler visa’, allows non-EU citizens to reside and work in Germany for up to three years, with the potential for extension. For UAE residents, the application fee is just Dh388 (€75).
Clint Khan, the Managing Director of Y Axis – an international immigration consultancy – said the visa is a good opportunity for independent professionals to expand their careers and tap into Europe’s market.
The German Consulate in Dubai manages applications for UAE residents. Here is your complete guide to Germany’s freelance visa.
Who qualifies?
Germany’s freelance visa caters to a broad range of independent professions under Section 18 of the German Income Tax Act, including:
Scientific, artistic, literary, teaching, or educational work.
Medical and legal: Doctors, lawyers, notaries, etc.
Technical and financial: Engineers, architects, accountants, tax consultants, etc.
Health and wellness: Non-medical practitioners, physiotherapists.
Media and communication: Journalists, interpreters, translators.
Pilots and similar skilled roles.
Pro tip: Contact local German authorities (e.g., Aliens Authority, Chamber of Commerce) in your chosen city before applying to confirm specific professional prerequisites.
What are the prerequisites?
That said, the visa doesn’t come easily. German immigration officials have established several prerequisites for qualifying for the freelance visa.
They are:
Professional license to practice the self-employed activity (e.g. vocational training diploma)
Proof of available capital
A detailed description of your planned freelance employment, supported by fee contracts and/ or letters of intent
Revenue forecast
Means to support yourself in Germany
People over the age of 45: adequate pension provision required
Proof of business contacts in the relevant professional field in Germany/ Europe
Application guide
Submit all documents in two identical sets of copies, presenting originals separately. Non-German/English documents require a certified translation.
Here’s your essential checklist:
1. Application Form
2. Passport
3. Biometric passport photos
4. Previous stays (if applicable)
5. Freelance business plan:
* Detailed description of planned freelance work, supported by fee contracts/letters of intent.
* Include proof of available capital, revenue forecast, and business contacts in Germany/Europe.
6. Curriculum Vitae (CV)
7. Motivation letter
* Explain your reasons for applying and your plans.
8. Proof of qualification:
* University degrees, training certificates, experience/reference letters.
9. Proof of financial subsistence:
* Demonstrate secure means of subsistence for at least one year.
* If 45+: Evidence of adequate retirement benefits (e.g., private pension, assets, acquired rights) – monthly pension of €1,280.06 or assets totalling €187,682.00 by age 67.
10. Travel Insurance:
* Incoming medical insurance covering expat/student in Germany (not travel insurance), to be provided at visa approval.
A few things to keep in mind:
Appointments: Arrive on time (no entry if more than 15 minutes late).
Completeness: Only complete applications are accepted.
Fees: Dh388 (approx. €75) cash (AED) at Consulate, exact change only.
Processing: Minimum seven working days, up to 12 weeks or longer. Apply up to 3 months prior—no status inquiries will be accepted for the first 8 weeks.
No Guarantee: Full documentation doesn’t guarantee visa approval.
Consulate Rights: May request more documents/interviews.
Integrity: Submitting false documents can lead to visa refusal and severe consequences.
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