Residence permit for non-EU entrepreneurs founding a business in Germany that benefits the regional economy.
Estimated Cost
$1,500
Processing Time
~3 months
Validity
36 months
Under Section 21(1), non-EU nationals can obtain a residence permit to start a commercial (gewerblich) business in Germany. Approval requires that the business serves an economic interest or regional need, that financing is secured (through equity or loan commitments), and that the applicant has the personal qualifications and experience to run the business. A business plan is assessed jointly by the local chamber of commerce (IHK), municipal economic-development office, and foreigners authority. Start-ups backed by accelerators or in tech hubs have higher approval rates.
Average: 3 months
Path to Residency
Path to Citizenship
~7 years
| Fee | Amount | Type |
|---|---|---|
| Estimated Total | $1,500 |