What 15 Years in Business Taught Me About Supporting Expat Freelancers in Germany
Are you thinking about starting a freelance business in Germany?
Whether you’re already here or planning your move, freelancing in Germany can be full of opportunity – but also full of confusion. Over the past years, I’ve supported hundreds of English-speaking freelancers from the US, Canada, and around the world with business registration, strategic planning, and growth in Germany.
Here are 15 real-world lessons I wish every expat freelancer knew – before dealing with the Finanzamt, filling out forms in German, or second-guessing if freelancing was even allowed on their visa.
1. Start with strategy - not with forms.
Before you register anything, get clear: What do you actually want to build? What services do you offer? Who do you serve? If you skip this step, your business setup might not support your long-term goals, and fixing it later can get expensive.
2. Your business will evolve - and that’s good.
15 years ago, I started with German-speaking SMEs in real estate. Now, I support English-speaking expat freelancers across coaching, tech, design, and more. What you start with won’t be your final form – don’t stress. Stay open.
3. Your legal setup in Germany really matters.
Whether you register as a Kleinunternehmer, Einzelunternehmer, or something else, this affects your taxes, liability, and even how seriously clients take you. Get advice, know your options, and make decisions that match your business goals.
4. The Finanzamt isn’t scary - if you understand their world.
German tax offices expect precision. A single wrong word in your business registration or tax number application can delay your entire start. And no, Google Translate won’t help with bureaucratic nuance. Knowing how to “speak Finanzamt” makes a big difference.
5. Be smart with your money - and know where to invest.
Yes, Germany can be expensive. But skipping strategy, legal clarity, or expert input often costs more later. Focus your budget on things that create momentum or reduce risk, like help with your business setup or navigating German systems.
6. Your freelance network in Germany is gold.
Isolation is a common challenge for expats. That’s why I run regular online networking events, because connecting with people who understand the freelancer life here is invaluable. Choose your collaborators wisely, and build a network that supports you.
7. Trust builds stronger businesses than any offer.
Clients won’t remember your title, they’ll remember how you made them feel. When someone asks for your advice outside your service area, it means they trust you. And trust is where referrals, renewals, and growth begin.
8. Structure creates freedom.
Want more flexibility? Start by creating a structure. A few solid systems, like client onboarding templates or time-blocked weeks, reduce stress and help you stay consistent.
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9. Work with people who light you up.
Your business isn’t just about profit. It should also feel good. Choose a niche that energizes you, and let your brand reflect your values. Clients can feel it when you’re genuinely aligned with your work.
10. Master something - don’t just offer services.
Freelancing isn’t just a side hustle. It’s a profession. Choose a skill or niche you want to grow in long-term. That’s how you stay motivated, stand out in a crowded market, and charge your worth.
11. Use your story - it’s your strength.
People work with people. Your story as an expat trying to build something new in Germany is part of your business. Don’t hide it. It builds trust, relatability, and connection.
12. Flexibility without structure leads to burnout.
It’s easy to fall into reactive mode when you’re freelancing alone in a new country. Create a structure that supports your flexibility: set clear offers and regularly check your numbers.
13. Start before it’s perfect.
Your first offer isn’t forever. Launch something solid, and refine as you go. Perfection delays progress, but action brings clarity.
14. Treat your freelancing like a real business.
You don’t need an MBA. But you do need systems, contracts, boundaries, and basic knowledge of business and taxes in Germany. The sooner you treat it like a business, the sooner it supports your life.
15. Define success on your own terms.
Your business doesn’t have to hit six figures or scale globally. If it gives you freedom, purpose, and enough income to feel secure, that’s success. You’re allowed to build what works for YOU.
15 Years - and Still Evolving
This milestone isn’t just about my journey – it’s about yours. Whether you’re just getting started or ready to grow, you don’t have to figure it all out alone. Thank you to every client, collaboration partner, and supporter who’s been part of this path,.Here’s to building more meaningful businesses, together.
