Germany offers a unique opportunity for international entrepreneurs through its Active Investor Visa (also known as Self-Employment Visa program). This visa is designed to attract innovative founders looking to establish a presence in Germany's thriving business ecosystem.
MOBILITY ASSSET SNAPSHOT
The Startup Visa in Germany, also known as the Self-Employment Visa, offers a unique immigration pathway for foreign entrepreneurs seeking to establish or expand their businesses in Germany. This program is designed to attract innovative business minds who can contribute significantly to Germany's economic growth and technological advancement.Initially valid for up to three years, the German Startup Visa allows entrepreneurs to set up and operate their businesses in Germany. After the initial period, visa holders can apply for extensions if their business is successful.
Visão geral
A renewable residence permit for foreign entrepreneurs in Germany's business sector.
Requisitos de elegibilidade
Viable business plan with positive economic impact
Restrições do ancestral da âncora
Meses para a cidadania
Duração do visto
Up to 3 years initially, renewable based on business success
Meses para o visto
Approximately 3 months
Requisito de presença física
Not specified, but continuous residency recommended
Disponibilidade
Moderate
Bolsa Família
Cônjuge e filhos
Visão geral
Dúvidas?
Find answers to common questions about GlobalPassport™ and our services.
What documents are required for the startup visa application?
Key documents include a valid passport, completed visa application form, detailed business plan, proof of financial resources, qualifications or professional experience, proof of accommodation in Germany, health insurance coverage, and a clean criminal record certificate.
What are the financial requirements for the startup visa?
While there's no set minimum investment, applicants must demonstrate sufficient capital to implement their business plan and cover living expenses. For the business investment category, around €350,000 is typically expected.
How long is the startup visa valid?
The initial visa is typically valid for up to three years. It can be renewed if the business is successful.
Can I bring my family with me on a startup visa?
Yes, family members can accompany the visa holder. They may be eligible for residence permits that allow them to work in Germany.
Do I need to speak German to apply for a startup visa?
While German language proficiency is not always a strict requirement, it can be beneficial. Some visa types may require proof of basic German language skills.
benefits
Invest in Germany's innovative future and secure your residence in Europe's largest economy.
The German Startup Visa offers numerous advantages for those looking to contribute to Germany's economy while establishing a presence in the country.
✅ Residence permit valid for up to 3 years, renewable
✅ Access to Germany's excellent education and healthcare systems
✅ Path to permanent residency after 3-5 years
Access to EU's largest economy
Strong innovation and technology sectors
High quality of life
Fast Processing Time
Minimal Physical Presence Requirement
Online Submission Allowed
Países com isenção de visto
161
Passport Validity
10 years, 6 years for those under 24
Visão geral
Paragraph: With its strong economy, central location in Europe, and supportive policies for startups and innovation, Germany has become an increasingly popular destination for international entrepreneurs.
Benefícios:
Vantagens:
Dúvidas?
Find answers to common questions about GlobalPassport™ and our services.
What documents are required for the startup visa application?
Key documents include a valid passport, completed visa application form, detailed business plan, proof of financial resources, qualifications or professional experience, proof of accommodation in Germany, health insurance coverage, and a clean criminal record certificate.
What are the financial requirements for the startup visa?
While there's no set minimum investment, applicants must demonstrate sufficient capital to implement their business plan and cover living expenses. For the business investment category, around €350,000 is typically expected.
How long is the startup visa valid?
The initial visa is typically valid for up to three years. It can be renewed if the business is successful.
Can I bring my family with me on a startup visa?
Yes, family members can accompany the visa holder. They may be eligible for residence permits that allow them to work in Germany.
Do I need to speak German to apply for a startup visa?
While German language proficiency is not always a strict requirement, it can be beneficial. Some visa types may require proof of basic German language skills.
REQUIREMENTS
Check if you qualify based on your family history
Not applicable
Investors must meet following requirements:+There needs to be an economic interest in or a regional demand for your product or service+It is foreseeable that your company will have a positive effect on the economy+You are able to finance the implementation of your business concept with your own capital or through a loan commitment+If you are older than 45 years of age, this visa can only be issued if you can provide proof of adequate old age pension provisions
Not applicable
Criminal Record: A clean criminal record is required
REQUIREMENTS
Launch your startup in Germany, secure your future in Europe.
To qualify for the Active Investor Visa in Germany, applicants must meet specific criteria set by the German government.
✅ Viable business plan with positive economic impact
✅ Sufficient capital to implement business plan
✅ Proof of relevant experience or qualifications
✅ Ability to finance living expenses
✅ If over 45, proof of adequate retirement provisions
✅ Meet general admissibility requirements for Germany
PROCESS
Initial Assessment
• Verify business experience
• Review investment thresholds
• Check eligibility criteria
• Select target market
Business Planning
• Develop business plan
• Market analysis
• Financial projections
• Job creation plans
Application Preparation
• Prepare investment documentation
• Business registration
• Source of funds verification
• Professional qualifications
Submission & Review
• Submit business proposal
• Present to relevant authorities
• Complete background screening
• Provide additional documentation
Implementation
• Receive visa approval
• Execute business plan
• Meet investment milestones
• Regular reporting requirements
PROCESS
DOCUMENTS
Passport
Marriage certificate and birth certificates of dependents (if applicable)
Proof of current address (utility bill, lease agreement, etc.) may be required
Police clearance certificate from the country of origin or residence for the past 2 years
Proof of Investment: Bank statements or other documents verifying the investment+Property purchase agreement or business investment documents+Proof of Funds: Documentation demonstrating the source of the investment funds (e.g., tax returns, bank statements).
DOCUMENTS
Birth certificates from government archives; Marriage certificates for family dependencies; Police clearance records from current and past residences
Certified translations into official language(s); Apostille certification; Government-issued document legalization
Diploma and transcript verification; Professional certification authentication; Credential evaluation services
Initial application submission fee; Processing and handling charges; Administrative review fees
Fingerprint collection fee; Digital photograph requirements; Biometric data processing
Required medical examinations; Vaccination verification; Health certificate processing
Document verification fees; Background check processing; Application status updates
Consulate visit expenses; Interview travel costs; Temporary accommodation (if required)
Language proficiency testing; Skills assessment fees; Additional document requests
Immigration lawyer consultation; Document review services; Legal representation fees
Tax planning consultation; Asset transfer advisory; Investment planning services
Relocation services; Property search assistance; Settlement support services
Residency card processing; Passport issuance fees; Registration certificates
Oath ceremony fees; Registration charges; Local authority fees
Renewal fees; Status maintenance costs; Annual reporting fees
Rankings
12
Classificação geral
Cost
Based on application fee
Residency Requirements
Based on residency requirements
Residency Privileges Length
Based on programs’s term
Processing Speed
Based on estimated processing time
Requisitos de elegibilidade
Based on entry requirements
Program Stability
Based on years of activity
Time to Permanent Residency
Based on permanent residency timeline
Rankings
Safety
20
Custo de vida
21
Quality of Life
9
Healthcare Quality
20
Internet Speed
57
Human Freedom
21
IMMIGRATION PROGRAMS
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