Ameek Singh
2 posts
Aug 27, 2025
3:21 AM
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Registering a company in Germany involves several steps, starting with choosing the appropriate legal structure, such as a GmbH (limited liability company), UG (entrepreneurial company), or AG (public limited company). Once the structure is selected, founders must draft the articles of association and have them notarized by a German notary.
Following notarization, the company must open a business bank account and deposit the required minimum share capital—typically €25,000 for a GmbH and €1 for a UG. After the capital is deposited, the notary files the registration application with the local commercial register (Handelsregister). Upon successful registration, the company becomes a legal entity. The next step is to register with the local trade office (Gewerbeamt) to obtain a trade license (Gewerbeschein). Additionally, the company must register with the local tax office (Finanzamt) to receive a tax number and, if applicable, a VAT number.
Employers must also register with the relevant social security and health insurance authorities. Finally, companies involved in regulated professions may need to obtain special permits or approvals. The entire registration process typically takes a few weeks and may require the assistance of legal or tax professionals to ensure compliance with German commercial and tax laws.
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