Your Guide to Residency for Starting a Business in Germany
From a Recommendation for Financial Support to a Residence Permit
- completed application form
- Notice of Approval (Grant Award)
- Proof of Financial Status (exist Scholarship Agreement)
- Proof of Health Insurance
- Proof of Residence
- Identification document
- biometric photo
Received a funding recommendation
You have received a funding recommendation from one of our certified funding programs. That means you've taken the first step.
Find the Right Visa
All of the funding programs we certify meet the requirements of Section 21(2b) of the Residence Act (AufenthG). With our funding recommendation, we therefore advise you to apply for a visa on this basis. It will allow you to obtain a residence permit for the duration of the scholarship.
If you fall into one of the special categories, different rules apply to you. Select your special category and find out what you need to know about your visa.
For more information about visas and a quick check, visit Make It in Germany.
Schedule an appointment
Schedule an appointment with the appropriate agency: Immigration Office in Germany or German embassy or consulate abroad.
Prepare documents
Check with your local authority to find out what documents you need, and have them ready for your appointment. These usually include:
Are you receiving funding from exist? If so, use our contact form to apply for a Letter of Confirmation. It assures the Immigration Office that your financial aid will be approved and contains all the information it needs to review your application.
Keep an appointment
You'll go to your appointment at the government office and receive your visa.
Forward a Residence Permit
Please send a copy of your new residence permit to the support team for your funding program. Only then can your funding begin.
List of Certified Startup Programs
To date, the following grant-based startup support programs have been certified by the GCCC.
FAQ
What exactly does the GCCC do?
GCCC certifies scholarship-based startup programs, advises universities, research institutions, and international academics interested in starting a business on matters related to residence law, and issues letters of confirmation for government agencies. While immigration authorities and diplomatic missions must take this certification into account, it is not a legal requirement under Section 21(2b) of the Residence Act.
Who decides on my residence permit for starting a business?
Abroad: the German Embassy or Consulate (C visa for stays of up to 90 days, D visa for stays longer than 90 days).
Domestically: The local immigration office at your place of residence—there are over 500 offices, and jurisdiction is determined by your place of residence.
What is the classic title for a start-up?
Section 21(1) of the Residence Act: Assessment of the viability of the business concept, entrepreneurial experience, the amount of capital invested, the impact on employment and training opportunities, and the contribution to innovation and research. Permits for business start-ups are generally granted for up to 3 years; thereafter, if the business is successful, a settlement permit may even be granted.
What standard documents do I always need?
A valid passport, a biometric passport photo, a fully completed application form, a resume, proof of education and academic degrees, proof of recognition (if applicable), health insurance, proof of sufficient funds to cover living expenses, a certificate of residence registration, a lease agreement, or a landlord’s statement.
Do I need a business registration certificate already while preparing to start a business?
No. Preparatory activities do not constitute gainful employment: developing a business idea, conducting market and competitive analysis, creating a business plan, attending startup fairs, meeting with investors, networking, building prototypes, and participating in startup programs.
When exactly does employment begin?
Upon entering the market: when negotiating with customers and clients, providing services, and issuing invoices. Anyone who generates revenue or runs a business in the market is engaged in economic activity.
How long before the start should I submit the application?
The application should be submitted, if possible, 3 months before the start of the economically relevant business establishment activities. If approval is delayed, the processing can be expedited through legal remedies after the 3-month period has expired.
Contact
Global Certification and Consulting Centre (GCCC) on behalf of the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy (BMWE)
Dr. Thomas Großmann
Head of the Startup Networks Division
Jülich Research Center GmbH
Jülich Project Management Organization
109 Lützowstraße
10789 Berlin