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Build Your Independent Future in Germany

Business • Investment • Self-Employment Residence Pathway (§21)

Turn your business or professional idea into a clear, well-prepared residence application for Germany, with structured guidance every step of the way

 

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Program Overview

The program supports individuals who want to relocate to Germany by starting a business, investing in an existing company, or working as an independent professional under §21 of the German Residence Act.

The program provides structured administrative guidance and document coordination to help candidates prepare a clear and well-organized residence application. By aligning business or professional activity details with financial and supporting documents, the program helps candidates understand what is required, what to prepare, and how each step fits together — allowing them to move forward with clarity and realistic expectations.

Program PDF

International professional representing business and self-employment residence opportunities in Germany

Is This the Right Path for You?

This program is right for you if you align with the following:


  • You want to relocate to Germany by starting a business, investing in an existing company, or working as an independent professional.
  • You have a defined business idea, investment plan, or professional activity that you intend to pursue in Germany.
  • You are able to financially support yourself and your project during the initial setup or qualification phase.
  • You prefer a clear, structured process with transparent steps and no unrealistic guarantees.

Check Eligibility 

What This Residence Can Enable


If your residence application under §21 is successfully approved by the relevant German authorities, this residence status can enable the following:

International entrepreneur symbolizing independent residence and professional life in Germany

Legal Residence & Daily Life
  • Legal residence in Germany under a self-employment / business residence permit (§21)
  • Ability to register your address, open bank accounts, and access essential services
  • Travel within the Schengen Area, in line with residence conditions
Business & Professional Activity
  • Right to operate your approved business, investment, or self-employment activity
  • Ability to generate income through your authorized activity
  • Independence from employer-based work restrictions

Social & Practical Access

Depending on your residence type and contributions, you may be able to:

  • Access mandatory health insurance
  • Enroll children in public education
  • Use public and private services available to legal residents
  •  Access depends on individual circumstances and legal requirements.
Family Reunification

  • Eligibility to apply for family reunification for immediate family members (spouse and minor children)
  • Family members may be granted residence to live with you in Germany
  • Subject to sufficient living space, income, and valid residence status
    Family reunification applications are assessed separately.

Step by Step Journey

From First Contact to Your Career in Germany

Outreach & Application:  
 Apply via partner or directly to DastN
Profile & Pathway Review:  
Your background and objectives are reviewed to identify the most suitable pathway.​
Program Registration:    
Confirmation of participation and onboarding into the program
Requirements & Documentation Overview:  
You receive a clear outline of the documents and information required for your specific case.
Application File Structuring:
Your business or professional activity, financial information, and supporting documents are organized into a clear and structured application file.
Visa Preparation:  
Appointment booking, interview coaching
Relocation & Settlement Support:
relocation-oriented support to help you navigate initial settlement steps in Germany, such as administrative registrations and practical next steps related to your move.


Star​​t Journey

No. Residence approvals are decided solely by the relevant German authorities. This program provides structured administrative guidance and coordination for high chances of approval

No. You can apply with a business idea, investment plan, partnership, franchise concept, or independent professional activity.

Yes. Most candidates apply from outside Germany, depending on embassy procedures and individual circumstances.

Government and embassy fees, translation and notarization costs, capital investment, living expenses, travel, and accommodation are not included.

There is no fixed age limit. Each application is assessed individually based on eligibility and documentation.

Frequently asked questions

Here are some common questions about our program.

Visa Success Rate

95%

End-to-End Support

100%

Successful Relocations

+260

German Law Compliance

100%

Why Choose DastN?

From qualification and contract support to visa, travel, and post-arrival integration. Our results prove how seamless and stress-free your relocation journey can be.