German Commercial Register: What Foreign Companies Need to Know Targeting the EU

The German Commercial Register (Handelsregister) is the official public record for companies in Germany. Foreign businesses need to register here to operate legally, build trust, and access banking, contracts, and hiring. This blog explains the legal process with clear steps and tips for success.

Germany is one of the most attractive destinations for foreign companies looking to expand in Europe. It offers a stable economy, a skilled workforce, and access to the entire EU market. But to set up and operate your business legally in Germany, there’s one critical step you can’t skip: registration in the German Commercial Register.

If you’re planning your move, you might wonder, what exactly is the commercial register? Why do I need to register? How does the process work?

In this guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know about the Germany business registry, with simple steps, important legal points, and answers to common questions.

What is the German Commercial Register?

The German Commercial Register (Handelsregister) is an official, publicly accessible database maintained by local courts in Germany.

It records all important legal information about companies operating commercially, including:

• Company name and legal form
• Business address
• Share capital
• Directors and board members
• Changes to company structure

This transparency builds trust with customers, partners, and banks. Anyone can look up company details, which helps ensure a fair, reliable business environment in Germany.

Why Foreign Companies Must Register

If you’re a foreign business planning to set up in Germany—whether as a branch, subsidiary, or new company—you’ll almost certainly need to register in the German Commercial Register.

• It’s the law. Most commercial companies must be registered before starting operations.
• It gives you legal standing. Your company becomes an official, recognized entity in Germany.
• It builds credibility Clients and partners can verify your business.
• It’s required for banking and contracts. You’ll need registration to open a bank account, hire staff, or sign leases.
• It ensures limited liability. For GmbH or UG, your company’s liability is clearly defined and protected.

Who Needs to Register?

Most commercial businesses in Germany must be entered in the commercial register.

You will need to register if you are setting up:

• A GmbH (limited liability company)
• A UG (entrepreneurial company)
• An AG (public limited company)
• An OHG (general partnership)
• A KG (limited partnership)
• A branch office of a foreign company

Freelancers and small sole traders may be exempt, but any serious foreign expansion almost always requires entry in the register.

The Legal Process in Simple Terms

Let’s be clear: Germany takes company registration seriously. The process is formal and has legal steps you can’t skip.

Here’s a short overview of what you’ll need to do:

• Decide on your legal form (e.g., GmbH, branch office)
• Draft your articles of association
• Have documents notarized
• Deposit required share capital
• Register with the local trade office (Gewerbeamt)
• File your registration with the German Commercial Register
• Wait for confirmation and publication

Sounds complex? Don’t worry—we’ll walk through it step by step.

Step-by-Step Guide to Registering in the German Commercial Register

• Choose the Right Legal Form
  Select the structure that suits your goals. GmbH is the most popular for foreign investors thanks to its limited liability and credibility.
• Reserve Your Company Name
  Ensure your business name is unique and complies with local rules.
• Draft Articles of Association
  Your company’s rules and purpose, share capital, and management structure. Must be in German or translated.
• Notarize Documents
  Mandatory in Germany. We help you connect with local notaries and understand requirements.
• Deposit Share Capital
  ✓ GmbH: minimum €25,000 (half can be paid upfront)
  ✓ UG: from €1
• Register with the Trade Office
  Get your Gewerbeschein (trade license) confirming your right to operate.
• File with the German Commercial Register
  Your notary submits documents to the local court. Fees are typically €150–€400.
• Receive Confirmation
  Your registration is published in the Federal Gazette. You’re now part of the Germany business registry.
• Register with Tax Authorities
  Obtain your tax ID, VAT ID, and employer tax accounts.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Choosing a name that conflicts with existing businesses
• Skipping notarization (it’s mandatory)
• Underestimating share capital requirements
• Failing to translate documents into German
• Assuming trade office registration is enough—it’s separate from the Handelsregister.

Conclusion

Registering in the German Commercial Register isn’t just a formality—it’s the legal foundation of doing business in Germany. It ensures your company is recognized, transparent, and able to operate professionally in one of Europe’s strongest economies.

By following the right steps—choosing the best legal form, preparing documents carefully, completing notarization, and understanding local requirements—you can secure your place in the Germany business registry and start building a successful future.

Hannover International Business Services will assist you with the process of establishing your German entity in the Hannover Region, including registering in the German Commercial Register. With our help you do not need to worry about missing anything in the process. Our experts will guide you step by step along the way.