Self-Employment Visa (§21 Selbständige Tätigkeit)
Entrepreneurs setting up or running a business that benefits the German economy.
The Self-Employment Visa (§21 Selbständige Tätigkeit) is a German business, talent & investor visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (~€100 (residence permit); up to ~€147 for self-employed permits) and processing time (~2-4 months), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the Self-Employment Visa (§21 Selbständige Tätigkeit) is for
Entrepreneurs setting up or running a business that benefits the German economy.
Settlement permit after 3 years if the business succeeds.
Self-Employment Visa (§21 Selbständige Tätigkeit) - eligibility criteria
- Viable business plan with economic interest/regional need
- Financing secured (own funds or loans)
- Relevant experience or qualifications
- Positive impact on the economy expected
- Health insurance and pension provision (if over 45)
Self-Employment Visa (§21 Selbständige Tätigkeit) cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the Self-Employment Visa (§21 Selbständige Tätigkeit) (Germany) is ~€100 (residence permit); up to ~€147 for self-employed permits, with an indicative processing time of ~2-4 months. Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at Make it in Germany / BAMF.
| Type | Temporary |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | At a German consulate abroad |
| Length of stay | Up to 3 years |
| Work rights | Self-employment in the approved business |
| Study rights | Permitted alongside business |
| Government fee | ~€100 (residence permit); up to ~€147 for self-employed permits |
| Processing time | ~2-4 months |
| Route to PR | Settlement permit after 3 years if the business succeeds. |
Pathway & next steps
Settlement permit after 3 years if the business succeeds.
Many applicants also compare Freiberufler · Freelance Visa (§21 Freiberufler), Skilled Worker · Skilled Worker Visa (Fachkräfte, §18a/§18b), Niederlassung · Settlement Permit (Niederlassungserlaubnis). Run a free VisaChief check to see which German route best fits your profile, then prepare an application reviewed by a registered migration agency in our partner network.
Common Self-Employment Visa (§21 Selbständige Tätigkeit) pitfalls we fix
Self-Employment Visa (§21 Selbständige Tätigkeit) - frequently asked questions
How much does the Self-Employment Visa (§21 Selbständige Tätigkeit) cost?
The Self-Employment Visa (§21 Selbständige Tätigkeit) government fee is ~€100 (residence permit); up to ~€147 for self-employed permits. Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at Make it in Germany / BAMF before applying.
How long does the Self-Employment Visa (§21 Selbständige Tätigkeit) take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~2-4 months. Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the Self-Employment Visa (§21 Selbständige Tätigkeit) lead to permanent residence?
Settlement permit after 3 years if the business succeeds.
Can I work on the Self-Employment Visa (§21 Selbständige Tätigkeit)?
Work rights: Self-employment in the approved business.
Who can apply for the Self-Employment Visa (§21 Selbständige Tätigkeit)?
Entrepreneurs setting up or running a business that benefits the German economy.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official Germany government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, fees and processing times change - always confirm the current rules with the issuing authority before you apply:
- Make it in Germany / BAMF - official Germany immigration authority