Question 1

When must a GmbH or UG carry out a business registration?

Accepted Answer

The business registration must be carried out before commencing operations and is required for each individual place of business such as offices, production facilities or sales premises. Non-operative companies such as holding companies that exclusively hold participations or properties are exempt from the registration obligation. In case of doubt, a written enquiry to the responsible trade office is recommended.

Question 2

How does the business registration of a GmbH or UG work?

Accepted Answer

The process comprises five steps: find the responsible trade office, complete the form, submit the registration in person, by post or online, pay the fees and subsequently start business operations. The responsible trade office can most easily be found via Google search with the term 'Gewerbeanmeldung in [city]'.

Question 3

Which documents are required for business registration?

Accepted Answer

For personal attendance, the completed registration form, a commercial register extract and the identity documents of all managing directors are required. If not all managing directors appear in person, a power of attorney is additionally required. For postal submission, a copy of the commercial register extract and copies of the identity documents of all managing directors must be enclosed with the form.

Question 4

Which information must be provided in the business registration form?

Accepted Answer

The form requires information about the company (company name, HRB number, register court, registered office), about the planned activity (main and secondary activities, start date, licence requirement) and about all managing directors (name, birth details, private address). For foreign managing directors, the residence permit must additionally be stated.

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