I am a British citizen and want to open up an import-export company in Germany in consumer goods. I would like to know more details and how would I stand in acquiring a residential permit for me and my wife. I wait to hear from you, how I can proceed and the total outlay, I would require for legal framework.
www.make-it-in-germany.com provides international professionals with information on working and living in Germany. Detailed information on setting up a business are also available on “Make it in Germany”.
First of all, as a citizen of the European Union you are free to start up your own business at the moment. In Germany, there are two ways of setting up a business: You are either self-employed (“Gewerbetreibender”), or you are a freelancer (“Freiberufler”). You do not get a choice in this matter - it depends on your profession. Being self-employed or a freelancer makes a difference with regard to certain formalities and also has an impact in your company’s legal structure. Read more about the two ways of setting up a business.
Please note, that at the moment the future developments regarding the residence issues of British people within the European Union cannot be predicted, as the Brexit negotiations are still ongoing. Another option for you to live permanently in Germany might be Naturalization. You can be naturalized, if you meet a number of requirements, which you will find on “Make it in Germany”. For personal advice regarding your residence status, you can also contact the “Hotline Working and Living in Germany” under the telephone number +49 30 1815-1111. Counseling sessions will be provide in English or German.
Source: Make it in Germany-team
Projekt „Make it in Germany“
Institut der deutschen Wirtschaft Köln e.V.
August 2018
