Germany · Digital Nomad Visa
Remote-work visa programs, income requirements, duration, taxes, and application steps.
No dedicated digital nomad visa — the usual alternative
- Program
- Freelancer Visa (Freiberufler)
- Launched
- 2010
- Initial stay
- 36 months
- Renewable
- Yes
- Income requirement
- No published monthly minimum
- Application fee
- $110
- Foreign income
- Taxed as a standard resident
- Family eligible
- Yes
- Path to residency
- Yes
Frequently asked questions
Does Germany have a digital nomad visa?
Not a dedicated one. Remote workers commonly use the Freelancer Visa (Freiberufler) instead — a general status, not a visa created for remote work, so check that your work fits its conditions.
How long can I stay on the Freelancer Visa (Freiberufler)?
36 months initially, and the permit is renewable.
How much income do I need for the Freelancer Visa (Freiberufler)?
No monthly income minimum is published for this program — applicants show self-sufficiency instead. Check the official page for the current evidence requirements.
Is my foreign income taxed in Germany?
Yes — holders are taxed as standard residents, so foreign income can fall within local tax. Check the double-tax treaty with your country.
How much does the Freelancer Visa (Freiberufler) cost?
The application fee is approximately $110.
Can I bring my family to Germany?
Yes — spouse and dependents are eligible under this program.
Can the Freelancer Visa (Freiberufler) lead to permanent residency?
Yes — time on this permit can count toward permanent residency. Conditions apply; confirm with the authority.
AI-drafted, editorially reviewed. Confirm specifics with the official authority.
Germany does not have a visa branded "digital nomad", but remote workers and freelancers commonly use the residence permit for self-employment / freelance activity under Section 21 of the Residence Act (the "Freiberufler" route). It suits independent professionals with German clients or a freelance business; you must show you can finance yourself. Make it in Germany sets out the requirements.
- There is no "digital nomad" visa per se; remote workers use the §21 self-employment/freelance permit.
- The freelance ("Freiberufler") route suits independent professionals, often with German clients.
- You must show you can finance yourself and hold any required professional licences.
- Note Schengen short-stay rules if visiting visa-free first — see this country's tourist-visa page.
- Make it in Germany — Visa for self-employment
Official freelance/self-employment residence-permit guide.
Government portals
- Federal Government of Germany — Germany's Federal Cabinet official website — policy, legislation, news, and government programs
- Federal Office for Migration (BAMF) — German visas, EU Blue Card, asylum, integration courses, and permanent residency
- Federal Central Tax Office (BZSt) — Tax ID (IdNr) registration, tax identification lookup, withholding tax refunds — the key authority for foreign taxpayers in Germany