Business registration - explained step by step (for people from abroad)

Are you new to Germany and want to start your own business? No problem! Here we show you Step by stephow you can get a Register a business can - simply explained and easy to implement.

1: Check whether you need a business

Not every activity is a trade. For example, if you are an artistin, Authoror a teacher, you often need no tradebut contact the Tax office as a freelancer to.
But: If you have an online store, open a hairdressing salon or work as a craftsman, for example, you usually need a Trade.

Step 2: Check your residence permit (if you are not from the EU)

If you come from a Non-EU country you need a permit to run a business. Make sure that your Residence permit stands:
 "Self-employment permitted" or "Gainful employment permitted"
If it doesn't say that, you'll have to do it at the Immigration office request.

Step 3: Register your business

You register your business with the Trade office in your city or municipality. You can usually online or do it on site. You need:

• Your Identity card or Passport

• One Address (e.g. your apartment in Germany)

• If necessary: Your Residence permit

• Possibly: Permits or proof (e.g. for a restaurant: proof of hygiene)

You will then receive a Business registration (trade license).

Step 4: Mail arrives from the tax office

After registration, the Tax office one Questionnaire for tax registration. You have to fill it in to get a Tax number to get. Without this number you may do not write invoices.

Step 5: Compulsory membership of the IHK or HWK

Depending on your job, you will automatically become a member of the Chamber of Industry and Commerce (IHK) or the Chamber of Crafts (HWK). That is mandatory. You will also receive mail from them.

Step 6: Small business regulation or sales tax?

You can decide whether you want to use the so-called Small business regulation want to use. So you have to no sales tax as long as you do not exceed certain limits. You enter this on the tax office form.

! Important! Business account and bookkeeping

Even if it is not always mandatory, it is very helpful to have a Own business account to have. You should also have a Simple bookkeeping for example with Excel or an accounting program.