German investment immigration follows the self-employment route: a residence permit for independent activity under §21 (Selbständige Tätigkeit) for entrepreneurs and freelancers — not a "buy citizenship" or passive-investment model.
Under the German Residence Act (AufenthG §21), business founders or freelance professionals (Freiberufler) in Germany may be granted residence if their activity serves an economic interest and has viable funding. M2W advises on business plan and documentation preparation.
§21 — self-employment residence permit
Theo Make it in Germany, §21 AufenthG is granted to 2 groups: Selbständige (setting up a business/Gewerbe) and Freiberufler (freelance professions such as IT, consulting, creative work). Authorities typically assess: the feasibility of the business plan, economic benefit or regional need, and source of funds.
Setting up a business
Setting up a company/business registration (Gewerbe) in Germany.
Self-employment
IT, consulting, design, art… independent practice.
Business plan
The key document — proving feasibility and capital.
Path to permanent residence
Niederlassungserlaubnis once the business succeeds and conditions are met.
Pathway to permanent residency
A §21 permit is usually issued for a fixed term; once the business succeeds and meets the conditions (contribution, finances, residence duration), the holder can apply for Niederlassungserlaubnis (settlement permit) — usually after about 3 years for the self-employment category, depending on specific conditions.
Why choose M2W for Germany investment immigration
Advice strictly under the self-employment §21 category — no invented "golden visa", which does not exist in Germany.
Support in drafting a feasible Businessplan — the key document German authorities assess for residence permits.
A dedicated consultant follows your case from the business plan through to the residence application and immigration pathway.
Conditions and timelines are taken directly from the German Residence Act and official government portals.
Frequently asked questions about investment immigration to Germany
Does Germany have an "investment for residence card" programme?
No. Germany does not sell residence rights in exchange for passive investment. The suitable path is self-employment residence under §21, which requires genuine business or professional activity.
Who is §21 for?
§21 AufenthG is granted to those setting up a business (Selbständige) or working as a freelancer (Freiberufler) — such as in IT, consulting or creative fields — provided the activity is viable and serves an economic benefit.
How long before you can settle under §21?
A §21 permit is usually issued for a fixed term; once the business succeeds and meets the conditions, the holder can apply for a Niederlassungserlaubnis, typically after about 3 years.
What is the most important document?
A Businessplan proving feasibility, market demand and funding sources is the factor German authorities scrutinise most closely.
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A study pathway linked to permanent residency.
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Germany visitor visa
Visa application and interview process.
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Family sponsorship - Germany
Reunification and sponsoring relatives.
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Germany settlement services
Support settling into initial life.
View detailsGermany self-employment migration advisory
M2W advises on building a business plan and a §21 residence application suited to your capabilities.
