Starting a business in Germany requires understanding the registration process to ensure compliance. Whether you're planning to set up a sole proprietorship (Einzelunternehmen) or a limited liability company (GmbH), this guide will walk you through how to register a business in Germany for coaches, consultants, and course creators.
How to Register a Sole Proprietorship in Germany for Coaches, Consultants, and Course Creators
Registering as a sole proprietorship (Einzelunternehmen) is straightforward and ideal for smaller, service-based businesses.
Step 1: Register with the Local Trade Office (Gewerbeamt)
Head to the local trade office (Gewerbeamt) in the city where your business will operate.
Complete the Gewerbeanmeldung form, which requires:
Personal identification (passport or ID).
Business name and address.
A brief description of your business activities.
💡 Pro Tip: Some cities allow online registration for convenience. Check your local trade office's website for details.
Step 2: Determine if You Qualify as a Kleingewerbe (Small Business)
If your expected revenue is:
Less than €22,000 in the first year, and
Less than €50,000 in the second year,
You may qualify as a Kleingewerbe (Small Business).
💡 Benefits of Kleingewerbe:
No requirement to register with the Handelsregister (Commercial Register).
Simplified tax obligations.
However, you must still register your business with the Gewerbeamt (Trade Office).
How to Register a GmbH in Germany for Coaches, Consultants, and Course Creators
A GmbH (Gesellschaft mit beschränkter Haftung) is ideal for businesses requiring limited liability protection or planning to scale. Here’s how to register a business in Germany for coaches, consultants, and course creators under this structure:
Step 1: Determine Shareholders and Share Capital
A GmbH requires at least one shareholder (person or entity). Establish the share capital, which must be at least €25,000.
Step 2: Draft and Notarize the Articles of Association (Gesellschaftsvertrag)
Prepare the Articles of Association, which outline your company’s:
Purpose.
Management structure.
Share distribution.
These documents must be notarized by a German notary.
Step 3: Open a Company Bank Account
Set up a business bank account in the company’s name and deposit the minimum share capital (€25,000). Keep the deposit receipt, as it will be required for registration.
Step 4: Notarize Shareholder Signatures
All shareholders must sign the notarized Articles of Association, either in person at the notary’s office or through a power of attorney.
Step 5: Register with the Commercial Register (Handelsregister)
Submit the following to the local Handelsregister (Commercial Register) at the district court:
Notarized Articles of Association.
Shareholder signatures.
Bank confirmation of share capital deposit.
List of managing directors.
💡 Pro Tip: Some registrations may require additional documentation depending on your industry. Always verify requirements with your local Handelsregister.
FREE RESOURCES TO HELP YOU SUCCEED
Step 1: Start with the Free Business Checklist
Get your step-by-step guide to building a strong foundation for your coaching or consulting business.
Step 2: Watch the Free Training
Learn the key legal steps every coach, consultant, and course creator must know to confidently grow a thriving business.
About the Author
Hi! I’m Vena Verga-Danemar, an Onlinepreneur Legal Strategist. As both a lawyer and an online business owner, I’ve helped dozens of coaches, consultants, and course creators legally start and grow their businesses using strategies that don’t require working 24/7.
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