Self-employment

If you are self-employed, you bear the initiative and risk of your business yourself. In contrast to dependent employment, you are responsible for your own social security and there are also differences under tax law.

Under the freedom of establishment, as a citizen of the EU, the EEA or Switzerland, you can take up self-employment in a freelance capacity or with business supervision at any time.

You are treated equally when setting up a company. This means that you must comply with the same regulations as German company founders.

You can choose to become self-employed if there is a realistic chance that you will be able to earn your own living from your business in the foreseeable future. As a business founder, you can apply for a wide range of subsidies to support you during the start-up phase of your business.

Because you need to be aware of many regulations, rights and obligations when setting up your own company, you should seek comprehensive advice. For example, you will need your own insurance policies for your private and business cover. There are business start-up seminars that you should attend if possible.

Self-employment is possible in many professions and includes practicing doctors as well as hairdressers, snack bar owners and bloggers.

Important: Please note that certain professional titles are protected in Germany. Even if you believe that your practical experience qualifies you for a certain profession, you may only use professional titles such as alternative practitioner, engineer or nurse if you have the necessary qualifications and certificates in Germany.