I live in Germany since 2005. My husband works here and I had Dependant Visa. Last month I've found a job as a freelance(Freie mitarbeiter) programmer. When I approached the Auslaenderbehoerde for workpermit, my case manager said that since we have already completed our 3 years stay in Germany, my husband can get a workpermit that is not bound to a company. Once his status is changed, mine also gets changed automatically it seems. She said with the new status I am automatically eligible to work anywhere in Germany BUT I am not allowed to be self-employed (Selbstaendigkeit nicht erlaubt). She's a nice lady and recommends that its easier to get this status and asked me to check with my would-be employer whether this status is enough for them to give me this job. She said When the company says this is not sufficient then we can apply for Selbstaendig status. She feels that it a more complicated procedure and takes lot of time.
Well, now my question is that - will the open work permit be sufficient to work as Freie Mitarbeterin? In my case, I dont think I've to call myself self-employed. Because I am not going to develop something and sell. I am going to sit there in their office and develop something as per their requirement. Does anybody had a similar case? Is the open work permit be sufficient to work as Freie Mitarbeterin?If not - Am I eligible for applying for the Selbstaendig status. Is it complicated? Should my would be employer has to do something inorder to get Selbstaendig status for me???

Any advice would be appreciated. thanks.