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Germany offers a residence permit for self-employed people, covering both entrepreneurs and freelancers. It allows non-EU citizens, including Nigerians, to live in Germany while running their own business or practising a liberal profession. This guide explains who qualifies, what to submit, and the steps from visa to permit. If you want to work for an employer instead, see our Germany work guide.
Entrepreneur or freelancer?
| Path | What the authorities look for |
|---|---|
| Entrepreneur | Your business meets an economic interest or a regional need, has a realistic plan, is expected to benefit the German economy, and has secured financing. If you are over 45, you also need adequate pension provision |
| Freelancer | You work in a liberal profession such as engineering, architecture, teaching, the arts, translation or health care, with the qualifications or licences required, and you can support yourself from the work |
This route is assessed case by case by the immigration authority in the town where you plan to work, often with input from the chamber of commerce or a professional body. The rules are in section 21 of the Residence Act.
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Documents
- Visa application form, valid passport and biometric photos.
- A detailed business plan with the market, finance and sales forecast.
- Proof of financing: capital, a loan commitment or investor letters.
- Degree, certificates, or the licence needed for your field, plus a CV.
- Health insurance cover that meets German rules.
- Pension provision if you are over 45.
- Letters of intent from customers, a lease or other evidence that your business is real.
Steps
- Develop your business case. Be specific about customers, prices and how you will earn a living.
- Collect your documents, with certified translations where required.
- Apply for the national visa at the German mission in Nigeria.
- Register your address in Germany after arrival.
- Get your residence permit from the local foreigners’ authority.
- Register the business, get a tax number and any trade licence your field needs.
Processing can take several months, so apply well before your planned start date.
Alternatives
If you are still building a plan, the Opportunity Card lets you search for work and explore options during a 12-month stay. See our Opportunity Card guide.
Citizenship and long-term stay
Germany has allowed dual citizenship since June 2024. Naturalisation normally requires several years of lawful residence, and the exact time depends on the current rules and your integration, so check the latest law before you plan around it.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to speak German?
It is not a fixed requirement, but dealing with authorities, customers and tax is much easier with some German.
How much capital do I need?
There is no single figure. The authority wants to see that your financing is secure and matches your plan.
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Can I bring my family?
Family reunification is possible if you can show enough income and housing for them.
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