Company Formation

Summary To open shop in Germany, first develop a clear business concept, define your target market, and choose the right legal form. Every retailer must complete a trade registration and, for GmbH or UG structures, a Commercial Register entry. Depending on your products, you may need special permits such as for food, cosmetics, or pharmaceuticals. Compliance …

Contents Why is the notary appointment important? What happens during it? How long does the notary appointment take? What documents are needed? What does the CEO’s insurance cover? What can go wrong? What are the waiting times? Where I arrange a notary appointment? How does it cost? What should I do if I missed it?  …

Contents Who can use the IHK name check? Why should I use an IHK name check? What exactly does the IHK check? What about trademarks?  Are there special rules? When is the right time? Is it compulsory? Which IHK? How long does it take? What does it cost? What happens if it gets rejected? What …

Contents What is an apostille? Hague Apostille What does it look like? Apostille vs. legalisation How do I apply for one?  Where can I apply in Germany?   What is an apostille? An apostille is a special form of notarial certification in the international authentication procedure. It was adopted in the ‘Hague Convention on the …

Contents Responsibilities & duties Liability risks Crises & insolvency Further reading    [BEGIN: Insert an Image between this tag] [END insert Image] Got questions about setting up a business in Germany? Startup expert 10+ years experience Hi, I’m Andreas and I’ve been advising businesses in Germany for over a decade. I’d be happy to call …

Summary There are different routes to registering a new business in Germany, depending on the legal form you choose. Freiberufler only register with the tax office, while sole proprietors and partnerships need a trade registration as well. Corporations like UGs and GmbHs also require a notary and entry in the commercial register. Each legal form …