Germany Digital Nomad Visa
Germany has no dedicated digital nomad visa. Non-EU freelancers instead use the self-employment (Freiberufler) residence permit, built around running a freelance business from Germany rather than remote work for a foreign employer.
The freelance permit suits self-employed professionals (developers, designers, consultants, writers) who can show a viable business, often with German clients. It makes you a German tax resident on worldwide income with no special break, and pure remote employees of a foreign company generally don't qualify. A dedicated Remote Work Visa (€1,200/month) was set out in the April 2026 Visa Handbook but is not yet open for applications. [Source: Make it in Germany (German federal government) ↗]
Updated: No dedicated nomad visa is live; a Remote Work Visa (€1,200/month) was announced in the 2026 Visa Handbook but isn't accepting applications yet.
Key requirements
- Germany has no dedicated nomad visa; freelancers use the self-employment (Freiberufler) permit
- Show freelance income covering living costs plus German health and pension insurance
- A viable freelance business, often needing German clients or letters of intent
- Full German health insurance and a registered address; remote employees of a foreign employer generally don't qualify
Before you apply
Germany requires private health insurance for the application. A nomad policy (like SafetyWing or Genki) meets the requirement and covers you abroad.
Compare nomad insurance →Germany nomad visa FAQ
How much income do you need for the Germany digital nomad visa?
Germany sets no fixed income figure; you prove regular remote income from foreign sources.
Who can apply for the Germany nomad visa?
Non-EU/EEA/Swiss (third-country nationals). It's for people working remotely (freelance, business) for clients or employers outside Germany. Family can be included (Spouse and children can join via family reunification once you hold the permit).
How long is the Germany nomad visa valid?
It's granted for 12 months, renewable up to 3 years total. Processing typically takes Several months (varies by city).
Do you pay tax in Germany as a digital nomad?
This route makes you a German tax resident on worldwide income at standard rates, with no nomad tax break. A separate Remote Work Visa (€1,200/month) was announced in 2026 but isn't open yet.
Do you need health insurance for the Germany nomad visa?
Yes. Germany requires private health insurance covering your stay. Nomad policies like SafetyWing or Genki are built for this.
Compare other countries
Visa rules and income thresholds change and can vary by consulate. Confirm the current requirements with Make it in Germany (German federal government) before applying. This page is general information, not legal advice.