I would like to start a new business in Germany. I am a European citizen from Greece. I want to know the steps of the business; other details such as taxes and if the English language is enough to have a conversation with the communities, because I don't speak German.
In Germany there are two ways of setting up a business: you can either work as a freelancer (Freiberufler) or set up a business as a self-employed entrepreneur (Gewerbe). 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. Your local tax office will decide whether your profession is considered “freiberuflich” or “gewerblich”, once you register your business at the latest four weeks after you started your activities. Here you will find out more about the two different ways of setting up a business.
Setting up a business in Germany, you will normally have to pay tax to the tax office, which is the local authority of Germany’s financial administration. Amongst other factors, the type of tax you need to pay depends on your company’s size and legal structure as well as on your earnings. You will find out more about taxes, insurance and laws on “Make it in Germany”.
Besides, there are many public information centres which will advise you as you set up your own business. On the Startup Portal, under “advice and information”, you will find the contact information of regional and national information centres for entrepreneurs with a migrant background. A general contact list is available on the Startup Portal. Similarly, the Authority Finder will also tell you about your nearest information centre.
As you are operating in Germany, a good knowledge of German is also important. Even as you prepare your business, you will find that many official documents are available in German only. If your German isn’t good enough yet, you can take a language course before you set up your business. Some advanced courses have a special focus on the business world.
To get to know more: Step by step information regarding setting up a business in Germany is available on the website "Make it in Germany".
We wish you all the best.
Source: Justina Alichniewicz
Projekt „Make it in Germany“
Institut der deutschen Wirtschaft Köln e.V.
Dezember 2016
With regard to the actual formation procedure, the local Chamber of Industry and Commerce (IHK) in the city of your choice is the first point of contact when intending to start your business in Germany. The IHK will be able to advise you on the required licenses, regulations, and so-called welcome packages that are available in the area. For finding the responsible IHK and arranging a meeting, please click on the respective city on the map.
