Business Registration
Registration of a business with the appropriate authority.
How to proceed
- 1
Determine the type of business
Determine whether the activity is a business or a freelance profession.
- 2
Submit your application
Online or at the Department of Business and Industry.
- 3
Obtain a business license
Automatic notification to the tax office and the Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
Required documents
- Identification card or passportMandatory
- Lease agreement or proof of ownership (commercial premises)Often forgotten
Responsible authority
The authority of your main place of residence is responsible.Find authority →
Fees
20–60 € je nach Gemeinde
Processing time
3 days
Official: max. approx. 1 weeks
Common mistakes
- • Business type not specified correctly
- • Tax ID number missing when changing address
Common reasons for rejection
- • Incomplete information
- • Lack of permits (e.g., restaurant license)
The essentials before applying
Who is eligible?
All individuals who intend to start or are currently running a business (excluding independent professionals).
Income limit
The limit varies by household and region – see the table at the responsible authority or in the application assistant.
Processing time
Nationwide: approx. 3 days
Success rate
approx. 99.0 % (estimate)
Most common mistakes
- •Business type not specified correctly
- •Tax ID number missing when changing address
Common reasons for rejection
- •Incomplete information
- •Lack of permits (e.g., restaurant license)
Alternatives
- Check related services in the application assistant
- Use social counselling before applying
If rejected
Read the decision carefully: often submitting missing documents or reapplying helps more than an objection.
Everything about Business Registration
Related services
Questions & Answers
How much does it cost to register a business?▼
€10–60 depending on the municipality, often €20–40.
Freshness & source
- Maintenance
- Continuously reviewed & updated
- Data quality
- 100 %
Latest content changes
- Gewerbeportal-Verlinkung ergänzt
Read more
Handle Business Registration online
Submit your application directly online – without visiting an office.
Start online applicationBusiness Registration by city
Regional processing times, responsibilities and specifics.