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Residence Permit for Financially Independent Individuals
GermanyGermany•Europe
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Residence Permit for Financially Independent Individuals

Investment PR PathwayThis visa can lead to permanent residency, the right to live and work here indefinitely without renewing your visa.

At a Glance

Processing Time

Varies

Estimated Cost

EUR €97–€193

Varies by filing options

Stay Duration

2 years

Renewable

Renewal

Renewable

Family

Not specified

PR Pathway

Yes

Sponsor

No job offer needed

Work

Remote not required

Official Information
Germany flag

Living in Germany

Cost of Living
2% cheaper than United States
Avg Salary€36,000
Quality of Life
195/200
Full Country Guide

Overview

Residence Permit for Financially Independent Individuals (§ 7 AufenthG)

The §7(1) AufenthG permit lets non-EU nationals live in Germany without working, funded entirely through passive income or assets — savings, pensions, or investment returns. It is discretionary: the local Ausländerbehörde must find a justified reason and confirm that no public funds will be required.

Issued for 1–2 years and renewable, it can lead to a settlement permit (permanent residency) after 5 continuous years. No work or self-employment is authorized. Dependents may join if the applicant can cover all family members; health insurance for all is mandatory.

This visa is ideal for retirees, investors, or those with passive income who wish to relocate to Germany without taking up employment.

Germany

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Cost Breakdown

Initial Issuance (Adults)EUR €100
Initial Issuance (Minors)EUR €50
Extension (Adults)EUR €93
Extension (Minors)EUR €47
TotalEUR €97–€193

Stay & Extensions

Initial grant2 years

Requirements

PUBLISHED REQUIREMENTS

Sufficient financial means (pensions, savings, investments)

Justified case for residence

No intent to work

REQUIRED DOCUMENTS

Proof of passive income/assets

Proof of health insurance

Proof of accommodation

Advantages & Considerations

Key Benefits

  • Allows residence without employment
  • Pathway to PR

Worth Knowing

  • Highly discretionary
  • High financial threshold
  • No work authorization
  • Intent to work
  • Insufficient financial assets

Application Process

1

Apply for a National Visa (Type D) at a German mission

2

Convert to a residence permit at the local Immigration Office

Application Forms

VIDEX National Visa PortalFill online

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