Digital nomads are people who use technology to work remotely and travel the world. With the rise of remote work, many countries have started offering visas that cater to such nomads. Germany, for instance, has recently introduced a Digital Nomad Visa for freelancers. In this blog, we will explore the benefits of applying for this Visa and other details regarding the same.
Germany Digital Nomad Visa / Freelance Visa
This Visa is a type of Freelance Visa that allows remote workers to live and work in Germany for up to a year. The visa is designed to attract highly skilled freelancers and entrepreneurs who can bring value to the German economy. The German government has recognized that online nomads can contribute to the country’s innovation and growth.
Steps to Apply for a Digital Nomad Visa in Germany
To apply for this Visa in Germany, you need to meet certain criteria. You must be a freelancer, self-employed, or an entrepreneur who can work remotely. You must also have health insurance and be able to support yourself financially. You can apply for the visa at the German embassy or consulate in your home country.
Live as a Digital Nomad in Germany / How To Live In Germany As A Digital Nomad?
Living as an online nomad in Germany can be an exciting experience. Germany is known for its high quality of life, excellent public transportation, and cultural richness. To live in Germany as an online nomad, you need to find suitable accommodation, set up a workspace, and connect with the local community. There are many co-working spaces and networking events that cater to digital nomads in Germany.
Freelance in Germany – German Freelancer Visa
The German Freelance Visa is designed for self-employed individuals who want to work in Germany. The visa allows you to freelance in a specific field such as IT, design, or journalism. The Freelance Visa is valid for up to three years and can be extended if you meet the conditions.
Which are the Requirements to Apply for a Freelance Visa?
To apply for a Freelance Visa in Germany, you need to meet the following requirements:
- You must have a valid passport
- You must have health insurance
- You must have a business plan and show proof of income
- You must have a registered address in Germany
- You must have relevant qualifications and experience in your field of work
Documents required for a Germany Freelance Visa
When applying for a Freelance Visa in Germany, you need to submit the following documents:
- A valid passport that has not expired.
- Proof of health insurance
- Business plan
- Proof of income
- Proof of address in Germany
- Qualification and experience certificates
Documents to Submit When Applying for the Germany Digital Nomad Visa
You need to submit the following documents:
- Passport.
- Proof of health insurance.
- Proof of financial stability.
- Proof of accommodation in Germany.
- Proof of professional experience.
Other Alternatives for Digital Nomads
Apart from the Digital Nomad Visa, there are other alternatives for digital nomads who want to work in Germany. You can apply for a Startup Visa, which is designed for entrepreneurs who want to start a business in Germany. You can also apply for a Job Seeker Visa, which allows you to stay in Germany for up to six months while you search for a job.
Permanent Residence with the German Freelance Visa?
If you hold a Freelance Visa in Germany, you can apply for permanent residency after three years. However, you need to meet certain conditions such as having sufficient income, paying taxes, and passing a language test.
How does freelancing work in Germany?
Freelancing in Germany is a popular option for self-employed individuals who like to work independently. As a freelancer, you are responsible for paying taxes, health insurance, and social security contributions. You can also deduct business expenses from your taxable income.
How to start freelancing after arriving in Germany?
If you want to start freelancing in Germany, you need to register with the local tax office and obtain a tax number. You also need to register with the social security office and obtain health insurance. Networking with other freelancers and attending events can also help you find work.
Can I work as a freelancer if am a foreigner already in Germany?
Yes, you can freelance in Germany if you are a foreigner. However, you need to meet certain requirements such as having a valid visa, health insurance, and paying taxes.
Germany is a Great Place for Digital Nomads to Work Remotely
Germany is a great place for digital nomads to work in a remote setting. The country offers a high quality of life, excellent infrastructure, and a thriving startup ecosystem. With the introduction of the Digital Nomad Visa, it is now easier for freelancers and remote workers to live and work here.
What is the Digital Nomad Scheme Called in Germany?
The German Digital Nomad Visa is called the Freelancer Visa or “Freiberufler” in German. It is a type of visa designed for self-employed individuals who work online or remotely.
What Does it Offer? Visa Length, Tax Breaks, Other Incentives
The German Digital Nomad Visa offers several benefits to freelancers and remote workers. In some cases, it might take up to 3 months for the Visa application to be processed. The visa is valid for up to 12 months and can be extended if the applicant meets the conditions. The visa also allows the holder to travel freely within the Schengen area.
One of the main incentives of this visa is tax breaks. Freelancers and remote workers who earn less than €17,500 per year are exempt from paying VAT. The visa also offers access to the German social security system, which provides health insurance and other benefits.
Who is it For? What Type of Digital Person? What Level of Earnings is Required?
The German Digital Nomad Visa is designed for self-employed individuals who work online or remotely. The visa is suitable for digital nomads who have a stable income and can support themselves financially. There is no minimum income requirement, but applicants need to show proof of financial stability and have health insurance.
How Do We Apply?
To apply for the German Digital Nomad Visa, applicants need to contact their nearest German embassy or consulate and submit the required documents. They need to provide proof of income, health insurance, and accommodation. The application process can take up to three months.
After your application is approved, the embassy will grant you an entry visa as a freelancer, which will be valid for three months. Therefore, it is crucial to enter Germany within that period to ensure that you can apply for the digital nomad visa once you arrive.
What Do We Need for the Application?
To apply for the German Digital Nomad Visa, applicants need the following documents for the visa application:
- A valid passport
- Proof of health insurance
- Proof of accommodation in Germany
- Proof of income and financial stability
- Business plan or portfolio.
- Duly completed application form.
Documents required to apply for a German freelance visa
If you are not a citizen of the European Union (or Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, or Sweden) and want to freelance in Germany, you will need to obtain a Freelance Visa. You must have German clients. Having a German bank account is also beneficial for this process. Once your visa is approved, you must travel to Germany.
- A Valid passport
- Completed filled national visa application form
- Biometric photo
- Proof of health insurance coverage
- Proof of financial means to support themselves during their stay in Germany
- Business plan or description of their freelance work
- Evidence of any relevant qualifications or work experience
- Proof of registration with the Trade Office (Gewerbeamt)
- Tax registration certificate
- Proof of accommodation in Germany
How Long Does it Take to be Granted?
The application process for the German Digital Nomad Visa can take up to three months. Applicants are advised to apply well in advance of their intended travel date.
Can I Apply for the Visa if I Already Live in the Country Under a Different Visa?
If you already live in Germany under a different visa, you can still apply for the German Digital Nomad Visa. However, you need to meet the requirements and provide the necessary documents.
What Has the Take-Up Been?
Since the introduction of the German Digital Nomad Visa, there has been a steady increase in applications. The visa has been well-received by digital nomads and freelancers who are looking for a new base to work from.
Where Can I Apply for the Visa? In Germany or From My Home Country?
Applicants can apply for the German Digital Nomad Visa from their home country or from within Germany. The application process is the same, regardless of where the applicant applies. For the German freelance visa, you must apply from the German embassy in your home country.
Best Things about Living in Germany
Germany is a fantastic place for digital nomads to live and work. The country offers a high quality of life, excellent infrastructure, and a thriving startup ecosystem. Most cities in Germany are safe. Germany is also known for its rich culture, history, and natural beauty. The country has many co-working spaces, networking events, and a welcoming community of digital nomads. Germany is one of the best places to stay in the world.
German Artist Visa vs the Freelance Visa?
The German Artist Visa and Freelance Visa are similar in many ways, as they both allow individuals to work and live in Germany independently. However, they are distinct visa types with specific requirements for German immigration.
The Artist permit is designed for artists or performers who want to live in Germany to pursue their careers in the arts. Applicants generally must provide proof of their artistic work or performances, and may also need to provide evidence of their qualifications or professional experience in their field.
The Freelance Visa, on the other hand, is intended for self-employed individuals who wish to work as freelancers in Germany. It covers a wider range of professions than the Artist permit and is available to individuals working in fields such as IT, journalism, consulting, or any other profession in which an individual can work independently. You can also apply for a residence permit for freelancers. Also, note that being on a student visa doesn’t let you freelance.
Can you work as a freelancer in Germany without a visa?
No, you cannot freelance in Germany without the appropriate visa or residency permit. According to German law, anyone who wants to freelance in Germany needs a freelance visa or a residence permit with permission to pursue self-employment. If you reside in Germany, you can freelance with some constraints. If you are already here on a long-term work visa, you can apply for a freelancer visa.
EU citizens and citizens of countries that have visa-free arrangements with Germany can stay in Germany for up to 90 days without a visa, during which they can network, look for job opportunities or explore the possibility of pursuing self-employment.
It’s important to note that working without a valid visa or permit is illegal and can lead to serious consequences, including being deported, fined, or banned from entering Germany in the future. The freelance visa takes 8-10 weeks to be processed and can be applied for from any German city.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the German Digital Nomad Visa is an excellent opportunity for freelancers and remote workers to experience the high quality of life and the vibrant culture of Germany. With the visa, digital nomads can live and work here without worrying about legal issues. If you are a digital nomad looking for a new base, Germany is definitely worth considering.
