MORE ABOUT Germany

Germany's Active Investor Visas

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

Discover the Active Investor in Germany

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.

Germany
Mobility Asset Index Score
74.00%
Mobility Asset Type
Active Investor Visas
Official Name
Germany Self-Employment Visa
Launched in:
1990
Online Submission:
Yes
Residency Privileges
(in years)
12
Adjudication Time
(in months)
6
Minimum Stay Requirement
(in days)
2
In-Country Presence Requirement
(in months)
None

Overview

A Snapshot of Germany's Active Investor Visa

A renewable residence permit for foreign entrepreneurs in Germany's business sector.

Eligibility Requirements

Viable business plan with positive economic impact

Anchor Ancestor restrictions

Months to citizenship

Length of Visa

Up to 3 years initially, renewable based on business success

Months to Visa

Approximately 3 months

Physical Presence Requirement

Not specified, but continuous residency recommended

Availability

Moderate

Family Allowance

Spouse and children

Overview

How to Apply for the Active Investor Visa in Germany

  • Submit documents to German embassy or consulate in your country of residence
  • Apply at local immigration office if already in Germany on another visa

Overview

Discover How GlobalPassport Simplifies the Application Process for Germany's Active Investor Visas

Step-by-Step Guidance

Our experienced team will guide you through each stage of the application process, offering personalized assistance tailored to your needs.

Document Preparation

We'll help you gather and organize the documents you need for applying.

Application Submission

Once your documents are ready, we'll let you know where and how to submit your application to the relevant authorities.

Questions?

FAQ's

Find answers to common questions about GlobalPassport™ and our services.

What documents are required for the startup visa application?

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What are the financial requirements for the startup visa?

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How long is the startup visa valid?

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Can I bring my family with me on a startup visa?

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Do I need to speak German to apply for a startup visa?

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DOCUMENTS

Documents Needed for Germany - Active Investor Visas

Important Notes
• All documents must be original or certified copies
• Non-English documents require certified translations
• Documents must be apostilled where applicable
Personal Identification Documents
Core identity documents required from the applicantis is some text inside of a div block.

Passport

Vital Records Documents
Birth, marriage, and death certificates from applicant and ancestors

Marriage certificate and birth certificates of dependents (if applicable)

Proof of Residence Documents
Evidence of current residence status

Proof of current address (utility bill, lease agreement, etc.) may be required

Criminal Clearance Documents
Background check documentation

Police clearance certificate from the country of origin or residence for the past 2 years

Financial Documents
Proof of payment and financial requirements

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

Costs Associated with Germany - Active Investor Visas

Pre-Application Costs
Essential document preparation and verification costs

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

Government Application Fees
Official fees charged by government authorities

Initial application submission fee; Processing and handling charges; Administrative review fees

$350

Fingerprint collection fee; Digital photograph requirements; Biometric data processing

Required medical examinations; Vaccination verification; Health certificate processing

Post-Submission Costs
Costs after submitting your application

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

Professional Services
Optional external support services

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

Post-Acceptance Costs
Costs after approval

Residency card processing; Passport issuance fees; Registration certificates

Oath ceremony fees; Registration charges; Local authority fees

Renewal fees; Status maintenance costs; Annual reporting fees

Discover More About Germany

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