Hi all,

I'm currently freelancing as an English teacher, but would like to start up a new business here in Germany.

My current visa only allows me to work for the companies listed on my visa & reads that "Sonstige Erwerbstätigkeit nicht gestattet"

How do I go about changing this so that I am able to work in a company other than those listed? ie. so that I can get the note "Erwerbstätigkeit gestattet, selbständige Tätigkeit erlaubt" included on my visa.

Any help would be appreciated.

Kind regards.

There is a distinction between freelancing (self employment) and dependent employment.

If you intend to be self-employed and work for (not “in”) a different company, you would need to apply for a permit according to § 21 AufenthG. Granting the permit is discretionary.

I suggest you lay down in detail the professional work and possible customers whom you want to offer your services. Also, check when you would be eligible for a settlement permit as this allows taking up any employment including self employment.