You can obtain a residence permit for freelancers if you wish to pursue freelance work in Germany.  Freelance activities include scientific, artistic, literary, teaching, educational, or other self-employed professional activities carried out on a self-employed basis pursuant to Section 18(1) of the Income Tax Act (e.g., self-employed physicians, notaries, tax consultants).

If required, you must present a professional license. A professional license is a state-issued authorization that allows individuals to work in a specific profession in Germany (e.g., healthcare professions, attorneys). If you do not yet have a professional license, it is sufficient to provide proof that it has been approved.

• You have a recognized and valid passport or passport substitute and, if required for entry into Germany, an appropriate visa.
• There are no grounds for deportation against you.
• Your stay does not endanger or harm the interests of the Federal Republic of Germany.
• You intend to engage in self-employed, freelance work in Germany.
• You have the necessary authorization to engage in freelance work, or the competent authority has assured you that such authorization will be granted. 
• If you are 45 years of age or older: You can provide proof of adequate retirement coverage.
• You can cover your living expenses and health insurance coverage from your own resources without relying on public benefits.

The process is as follows:

• Depending on the immigration office and the nature of your request, it may be possible to apply online. Check whether your immigration office offers the option to apply for a residence permit electronically.
• If applications can only be submitted in person, schedule an appointment with the immigration office. During the appointment, your application will be accepted and your supporting documents will be reviewed (be sure to bring them with you to the appointment). Your fingerprints will be taken to issue an electronic residence permit (eAT card).
• If you submit your application online, the Foreigners’ Registration Office will contact you after receiving your online application to schedule an appointment at the office, if necessary. During the appointment, your supporting documents will be reviewed (please bring them with you to the appointment) and your fingerprints will be taken to issue the electronic residence permit (eAT card).
• If your application is approved, the Foreigners’ Registration Office will arrange for the eAT card to be issued.
• After about six to eight weeks, you can pick up the eAT card at the Foreigners’ Registration Office.
• The eAT card must generally be picked up in person.

Federal Government portal for skilled workers from abroad

https://www.make-it-in-germany.com/de/ueber-das-portal/kontakt/hotline/

An appeal against a decision by the immigration authorities may be lodged with the authority named in the decision within one month of notification of the decision. The appeal may be lodged in writing, in electronic form, or for recording.

If the Foreigners' Registration Office does not grant the appeal, legal action may be taken before the court specified in the appeal decision.

• You should apply for a residence permit no later than eight weeks before your visa or current residence permit expires.
• The residence permit is issued for a limited period.
• Appeal period: one month

about six to eight weeks.

The immigration office responsible for the applicant's place of residence.

• Valid passport or passport substitute
• Visa, if required for entry into Germany
• Current biometric photo
• If applicable, a license to practice a liberal profession or a notice of approval for its issuance
• Proof of sufficient funds to cover living expenses (e.g., personal assets, blocked account, letter of financial support)
• Proof of health insurance
• Current certificate of residence
• If you are 45 years of age or older: Proof of adequate retirement provisions (e.g., proof of personal assets, accrued pension entitlements, business assets)

 In individual cases, the Foreigners’ Registration Office may request additional documents.

Issuance of a Residence Permit: EUR 100.00

Under certain conditions, a fee reduction or exemption may be granted.

Notes:

• Additional fees may apply for the issuance of a residence permit in the form of an electronic residence permit, which can also be used as an electronic form of identification.
• The timing, method of fee collection, and payment vary depending on the agency.

• Online procedures are possible in some cases
• Written form required
• In-person appearance required