Digital Nomad & Residency - Germany

There is no specific digital-nomad or remote-work visa; the federal 'Make it in Germany' portal directs remote workers and freelancers to the self-employment/freelance residence permit instead.

Non-EU freelancers in liberal professions (IT, consulting, design, writing, etc.) apply for an 'Aufenthaltserlaubnis zur Ausübung einer freiberuflichen Tätigkeit' by proving they can finance the activity, support themselves, and hold any required professional licence.

Those establishing a commercial business (Gewerbe) under §21(1) must show a commercial interest or regional demand, a positive economic impact, and secured financing, typically supported by a business plan.

The permit is initially granted for up to three years; if the activity remains viable and self-supporting, it can be extended, and after about five years a permanent settlement permit (Niederlassungserlaubnis) may be obtained.

A separate points-based one-year residence permit lets skilled non-EU nationals enter to seek employment (min. 6 points; part-time work up to 20 hrs/week permitted), but it targets local job-seeking rather than authorising remote work for foreign employers/clients.

Germany does not operate a residency-by-investment or 'golden visa' program; its immigration strategy channels investors through the §21 business-establishment route and skilled migration rather than passive investment.