Germany Digital Nomad Visa (2026)
Everything you need to know about the Freiberufler (Freelance) Visa — income requirements, validity, work rights and how to apply.
Programme
Freiberufler (Freelance) Visa
Income requirement
Not published
Validity
3 years initial, renewable
Work rights
Employer sponsored
Path to PR
Yes — 5 years
Tax residency trigger
183 days/year
About the Freiberufler (Freelance) Visa
Berlin-friendly; needs German clients/letters of intent.
Official source: Make-it-in-Germany
Who this suits
Remote workers and self-employed professionals who can demonstrate stable income and want a flexible long-stay option in Germany.
Eligibility at a glance
- Proof of sufficient funds (no fixed threshold published)
- Valid passport with 6+ months remaining
- Clean criminal record certificate
- Private health insurance covering the country
- Proof of accommodation (rental, hotel or invitation)
Watch out
- •Anmeldung (address registration) is mandatory and chronically delayed in Berlin.
- •Public health insurance is compulsory and costs ~€800/mo for self-employed.
Insider tips
- •Get a Schufa-positive German bank account before signing a lease.
How it compares
Compare with other popular digital nomad visa countries:
Frequently asked questions
Can I work remotely on the Germany digital nomad visa?
Yes. The Freiberufler (Freelance) Visa is designed for remote workers and self-employed professionals. Work rights for the broader country are: employer sponsored.
How long can I stay in Germany on this visa?
3 years initial, renewable. Berlin-friendly; needs German clients/letters of intent.
Does the Germany nomad visa lead to permanent residency?
Yes — time on the Freiberufler (Freelance) Visa counts toward permanent residency, typically after 5 years.
What's the income requirement for the Germany digital nomad visa?
No fixed monthly income is published. Applicants are typically asked to show sufficient funds; check the official source for current guidance.
Want full cost-of-living, tax and lifestyle data?
See the full Germany guide →Last reviewed Mar 2026. Always confirm current requirements with the official source above.