Expert Info
on 12 Nov 2012
Hi expats,
I am Australian entrpreneur looking to setting up a restaurant in Berlin. I have two successful establishments here in Sydney and I am looking for a new challenge.
Can anyone give me some information on the type of visa I should apply for and what the requirements are. I would need to move to Berlin for at least a year, till the restaurant got off the ground. If there is anyone out there who has experience of doing business in Germany and getting the correct visa, please do let me know.
Cheers
To set up your own business in Berlin, you will need apply for a self-employed residence permit.
It is not easy to get hold of and you'll need to put a great deal of effort into your application. You will need to prove that your specific skills will be needed in Berlin and you will have to show how your business will have a positive impact on the local economy (usually you would need to show how would employ Germans)
You should draw up a detailed business plan to support your application. The fact that you are already a successful entrepreneur will certainly act in your favour.
Read more about the legal requirements for working in Germany on our Work Permits for Germany page.
Best of luck with your new venture.