Germany Offers Freelancer Visa, Allowing Applicants to Reside and Work for Up to 3 Years, with an Eligible Dh368 Fee
For UAE residents seeking to expand their careers and tap into Europe's thriving market, the German Freelance Visa, also known as the 'Freiberufler visa', offers an opportunity to reside and work in Germany for up to three years. Here's a comprehensive guide to the requirements and application process for this visa.
## Requirements for a German Freelance Visa
1. **Valid Passport**: A passport issued within the last 10 years, valid for at least another year, and with at least two blank pages is essential.
2. **Professional Qualifications**: Applicants must possess a professional license to practice their self-employed activity, such as a vocational training diploma or a university degree relevant to their field. Evidence of qualifications, including university degrees, training certificates, or reference letters, is also required.
3. **Financial Stability**: Proof of available capital to support oneself in Germany, typically demonstrated through bank statements, and a revenue forecast from freelance work are necessary.
4. **Business Plan and Intent**: A detailed description of planned freelance work, supported by fee contracts and/or letters of intent, and proof of business contacts in the relevant professional field in Germany or Europe are required.
5. **Additional Documents**: A Curriculum Vitae (CV) outlining professional experience, a motivation letter explaining reasons for applying and plans, biometric passport photos, and previous stays (if applicable) are also necessary.
6. **Health Insurance**: Adequate health insurance coverage for the stay in Germany is mandatory.
7. **Adequate Pension Provision**: For individuals over 45, proof of adequate pension provision is required. This can be demonstrated through a private pension, assets, or acquired rights, with a monthly pension of €1,280.06 or assets totalling €187,682.00 by age 67.
## Application Process
1. **Contact Local Authorities**: Before applying, verify specific requirements with local German authorities, such as the Aliens Authority and Chamber of Commerce.
2. **Gather Documents**: Prepare all required documents in two identical sets of copies, with originals presented separately. Non-German/English documents need a certified translation.
3. **Submit Application**: Submit your application through the German Consulate in Dubai for UAE residents. Ensure all forms are completed and signed in duplicate.
4. **Wait for Approval**: After submitting your application, wait for approval. The visa typically allows you to stay and work in Germany for up to three years, with the possibility of renewal.
5. **Provide Travel Insurance**: Once the visa is approved, provide travel insurance covering expats/students in Germany (not travel insurance).
6. **Application Fee**: The application fee for UAE residents is Dh388 (approximately €75).
7. **Arrive on Time**: Arrive on time for appointments (no entry if more than 15 minutes late).
The German Freelance Visa caters to a broad range of independent professions, including scientific, artistic, literary, teaching, educational work, medical and legal, technical and financial, health and wellness, media and communication, pilots, and similar skilled roles. With its diverse job market and opportunities for growth, the German Freelance Visa is an attractive option for UAE residents seeking to further their careers in Europe.
- For UAE residents considering a career shift, the German Freelance Visa offers the opportunity to work in diverse fields such as science, art, teaching, and finance.
- In addition to professional qualifications, applicants must also demonstrate financial stability by providing bank statements and a revenue forecast.
- A business plan and proof of business contacts in Germany or Europe are also essential requirements for the German Freelance Visa.
- It's crucial to have adequate health insurance coverage and, for individuals over 45, proof of adequate pension provision to be eligible for the German Freelance Visa.
