Residence permit for self-employment / business founders (§21(1) AufenthG)
Data as of 27 Oct 2026 · Partly confirmed
Residence permit for self-employment / business founders (§21(1) AufenthG) is a long-stay route in Germany.
Who can apply
Open to some nationalities
Rule text, quoted in its source language: Economic interest or regional need; expected positive effect on the economy; financing secured by own capital or loan commitment. Assessed on viability of the business idea, entrepreneurial experience, capital invested, effect on jobs/training and innovation. Adequate pension provision if over 45. No fixed minimum investment in law.Sources
- § 21 AufenthG Selbständige Tätigkeit
- Visa for self-employment
- Visabestimmungen allgemein
- Germany - Individual - Taxes on personal income
- § 41 AufenthV Vergünstigung für Angehörige bestimmter Staaten
- Staatenliste zur Visumpflicht bzw. -freiheit
- Einreise und Beschäftigung privilegierter Staatsangehöriger (infographic)