---
title: Can a self-employment permit be converted into a permanent residence permit (PR)?
description: An entrepreneur who has set up a business in Germany, is usually interested in getting more stability and security, also from an immigration perspective. This can be achieved by converting his work Permit into a permanent residence permit.
---

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# Can a self-employment permit be converted into a permanent residence permit (PR)?

## An entrepreneur who has set up a business in Germany, is usually interested in getting more stability and security, also from an immigration perspective. This can be achieved by converting his work Permit into a permanent residence permit.

After a period of 3 years of successful self-employment activity in Germany, an entrepreneur (who is holding a work permit to carry out his business in Germany), can apply for converting his work permit into a permanent residence permit.

The main requirements for applying are that:

- the business has successfully developed and that
- there are no doubts that the applicant has enough financial stability to support himself and his family members without any state aid.

Other requirements need to be fulfilled as well.

Professional guidance for handing in the application is strongly recommended.

Legal Reference: § 21 *AufenthG*

Please do not hesitate to contact us, if you need additional information or support with converting your current permit to a permanent residence permit:

Dwyer Legal Law Firm, Schwanthalerstr. 13, Aufgang IV, 80336 Munich  
Tel: +49 (0)89 24 88 14 310, [www.dwyer-legal.com](https://dwyer-legal.com/)

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