Business Registration

Visa Requirements

Because EU-citizens have a right to establish a business in other EU Member States, business people from other EU Member States are entitled to enter Germany and start up a business branch or company without any further visa requirements.

Non-EU nationals require a visa with a special permit to operate a business. Visa applications must be made to the German embassies and consulates, or to the responsible German ''Ausländerbehörde'' (Aliens Authority) if the applicant has already legally entered Germany.

The permit will be granted if the business venture is of a general, economic interest or satisfies specific local needs, and if it is expected to have a positive impact on the German economy. If the business venture involves an investment of more than € 500.000 and the employment of at least 5 workers, it is generally assumed that these requirements have been met. Other factors being considered when granting a permit include the business venture's prospects of success, the experience of the investor, the impact on employment, and the contribution to scientific research.

Furthermore, the investor must prove that there is sufficient financing for the business venture either through equity capital or credit. Foreign investors above the age of 45 must also supply proof of adequate old-age pension coverage if they intend to remain in Germany.

In order to verify these requirements, you may also be requested to provide with the application a detailed German business plan, proof of funds or credit approval, a curriculum vita including qualification certificates, proof of sufficient language skills, an extract from the commercial or company register, and/or a draft of the partnership contract.

The permit is limited initially to one-year periods of time. After three successive years, it can be turned into an unlimited permit if the start up was successful.