Germany Digital Nomad Visa 2026

Key facts at a glance

Full requirements

Program

Freelance Residence Permit ("Freiberufler")

Minimum income

€992 per month (No official income threshold exists — €992/mo is the 2026 blocked-account (Sperrkonto) subsistence level commonly cited; actual requirements vary by Ausländerbehörde — flag as variable.)

Savings

No fixed requirement — No fixed savings figure is published; you must prove sufficient funds to finance your freelance project and support yourself.

Duration & renewal

Up to 3 years. Typically issued for the planned freelance project duration, often 1–3 years; extensions possible.

Processing time

8–12 weeks typical; varies widely by city.

Fees

~€100 (varies by state)

Family

Family reunification is possible, but the income and savings bar rises — you must show you can support your household without public funds. Confirm the current figures with your local Ausländerbehörde.

Apply from abroad

Yes — Apply for the national freelance visa at the German consulate serving your residence before traveling. Many missions are backlogged, so book early.

Apply in country

Yes — Visa-free nationals (e.g. US, UK) may enter Germany and apply directly at the local Ausländerbehörde in some cities — practice varies city to city. Nationals who need a visa must secure it at a consulate before arrival.

Degree / experience

Not required — No degree required, but you must prove your freelance work serves German economic interest or there is regional demand — a portfolio, client letters and a business plan help.

Remote work history

Not officially specified — No fixed minimum is published; expect to show client letters, contracts or a project pipeline rather than a history count.

Health insurance

Required — must be valid for the full stay

Tax notes

Frequently asked questions