Business & Self-employment

Start, register, test and grow a business in Germany.

Business & Self-employment

Start, register, test and grow a business in Germany.

Section tools
Business at a glance
Setup paths4
Legal formsGmbH · UG · …
Tax checkpoints6+
Risk checks5
Germany · founder tools

You're in Start a Business. Use this to move from an idea to a legally registered business in Germany. Start with Rechtsform Finder if you're unsure whether Gewerbe, Freiberufler, UG or GmbH fits.

What this does: Checks whether your activity needs a permit (Erlaubnis) before you can register.
When to use it: Right before the Gewerbeanmeldung.
What you need: A clear description of what you will actually do.
What to do next: If a permit is needed, prepare it before the Finanzamt Timeline.

Orientation only — not legal advice. Confirm with the Gewerbeamt, IHK or a lawyer.

Official German sourcesLast updated: Reviewed regularlyMethodology
Start a business in Germany — founding guide