Residence Permit for Self-Employed Activities under § 21 AufenthG
Residence permit for self-employed activities under section 21 of the German Residence Act
The law firm JUDr. Gunther WITTENSTEIN assists international entrepreneurs in preparing and pursuing applications to establish a self-employed activity in Germany.
These applications commonly concern a residence permit under section 21 of the German Residence Act (AufenthG). A promising business idea alone is not sufficient. The authorities generally require a coherent legal and commercial presentation covering the applicant’s suitability, the financing of the project, the viability of the business model and the economic interest or regional need for the proposed activity.
The business plan as a central part of the application
A business plan for a residence procedure must go well beyond a general description of the proposed activity. It should explain, clearly and verifiably, which goods or services will be offered in Germany, which customer groups will be addressed, which costs will arise and when the business is expected to become sustainable.
Reliable information about the market, location, customers, suppliers, investment, operating costs, financing, liquidity, profitability and break-even point is particularly important. Unsupported assumptions or unrealistic revenue forecasts can materially weaken an application.
Structured preparation by the law firm
We assist with reviewing the residence-law requirements, compiling the necessary evidence, coordinating the business plan, preparing financing documents and communicating with the responsible authorities and other bodies involved.
Every project is assessed individually. No outcome can be guaranteed; the applicant’s personal circumstances and the legal and commercial merits of the particular proposal remain decisive.
A secure digital process
For section 21 procedures, the law firm provides an invitation-only client portal. It guides clients through the required information and evidence so that documents can be supplied in a complete, structured and secure manner. There is no public registration.
Support beyond the residence procedure
After a successful residence procedure, further legal support may be helpful when establishing and operating the business in Germany. Depending on your needs, the law firm can also assist with employment law, family law, contracts, debt recovery and related legal matters.
If you are planning to become self-employed in Germany and would like assistance with an application under section 21 of the Residence Act, we would be pleased to discuss your project with you.