Germany

Germany's Freiberufler visa is the gold standard freelance route in Europe — three-year initial permit, low income bar, and a path to permanent residency in just three years if your income is solid. Berlin's been built on this visa for a decade.

A 6-month visa to legally live in Germany while you look for a qualified job. Once you land an offer, you switch to a work visa or EU Blue Card without leaving the country. The smartest entry point for skilled professionals targeting Europe's largest job market.