I want to live in Berlin

Hi people..
for reasons-a-plenty, I would like to move to Berlin.

I have heard so many different things from people on here and other message boards regarding what is actually involved. I've seen the applications for residency permits (yes, I plan on staying for more than 3 months... a few months at least, but probably more perminent).

I have income from different sources, but not really anything that can be easily demonstrated properly (performing artist with random but sufficient income, often paid "under the table" and some freelance writing and design work back home in Canada that can be done over the internet).

What is the best way to approach this?
I understand it's not as simple as filling out the form and getting the permit?

Some helpful guidance would be greatly appreciated.
What do I need to do, when do I need to do it, what all do I need, etc, to take up residence legally?

Watch yourself. I am not discouraging you just presenting the facts. From one artist to another artist be aware that the Polezi will stop you and check for paperwork no matter how good you are. Now that said good luck and use the search function for "free lance" work and such

Some advice i can give you is first understand the City has an Unemployment Rate somewhere around 16-20% Which is Extremely High for a German City.. Hence the phrase "Arm Aber Sexy" (Poor But Sexy) as the new city motto.

Make Sure you register at the Auslanderampt for your Residency permission, and like was previously stated the Polizei will check you conveniently to make sure your documents are in order, for your first 90 days have your passport on you always with your visa stamp.
and if you want an honest chance at finding a job other than Dunkin Donuts or scrubbing toilets is LEARN GERMAN!!!

Come to this city a bit prepared and you will do fine, something will come up..

Did not mean to be too direct, but Ive met too many nice expats lately that have had to leave, because they did not follow the rules and have their paperwork in order..

can you explain exactly what paperwork you're referring to?

thanks

Cosine, I hate to burst your bubble, but there is no simple 'step-by-step' process for moving from one continent to another. Lots of us here have managed to do it, but if you're looking for someone on this forum to tell you exactly what you need to do and how to do it, you're out of luck. If you want to make such a big step, you need to take some responsibility (and some initiative) by doing some research on your own.

Questions such as yours will inevitably prompt other forum members to quite brusquely tell you to use the search function -because there are literally hundreds of different topics on this forum about moving to Germany that will give you useful advice on everything from what to pack, to how to find a job, to visas and how to get residence/work permits, to German language courses. Again, take it upon yourself to dig up what you need to know, and ask questions along the way.

Just to get you started, here are a couple of topics I found by searching that might be of interest to you. If you don't find the info you need there, don't hesistate to 'revive' the topic by asking new questions.

German work permits for Canadians - Employment permit / visa / visas

Working in Berlin without speaking German

And, one which it looks like you've already found: Applying for visa or permit for freelance work

Best of luck to you.

I appreciate your pointing me in the direction of threads and the search tool.. however..
I guess to be more specific, I'm looking for reliable information on the paper work and/or rules regarding applying for residency. I see lots of info on freelancing and applying for work and so forth, but that isn't what I'm looking for. I have income - I simply can't seem to find straight reliable information on how to gain perminent or long term residence in Germany. I'm a Canadian and have looked at forms and things to apply for this. But filling out a form is one thing and getting approved is another. I was hoping someone who has done this could tell me a bit about their experiences and what exactly I'd need to do this successfully. (the application process, etc.. I don't need help with the general common sense logistics that you need to look after when moving *anywhere*..)

Thanks

Try searching for "Aufenthaltserlaubnis" or residency permits. there is also a special section on TT devoted to Visa's & Permits : Visa & Permits. i know, i know. your situation is different. you just want a residence permit. you have your own income & can support yourself. i suppose if you had 1 million $ then Germany might give you a permanent residence permit, but otherwise, I doubt it. as is, they mnight only grant you a temporary one. they don't want any more burdens on the system.

i have been on TT a long time and most have come here to study or work. in the end you might have to go contact the embassy directly. sorry.

Canadian wants to stay in Germany -- looks like a similar situation. doesn't look to good for you.
Living, but not working here -- found this too.

If income isnt an issue, contract a relocation agent. They might be the best, easiest solution for you.