StaatsNavigator
Business & Self-Employment

Change the business registration

Reporting changes to an existing business—such as a new location, a change in business activities, or a change in legal structure.

Processing: 5 days
Online application possibleSuccess rate: 98.0 %

How to proceed

  1. 1

    Fill out the business registration form

    Please provide details of any changes (address, business activity, legal form).

  2. 2

    Submit it to the relevant business registration office

    If you change your business location, the Trade Licensing Office at the new location will have jurisdiction.

  3. 3

    Confirmation received

    Will be forwarded to the tax office and professional associations.

Required documents

  • Previous business licenseMandatoryOften forgotten
  • Identification cardMandatory

Responsible authority

The authority of your main place of residence is responsible.Find authority →

Fees

Varies by case

Processing time

5 days

Official: max. approx. 2 weeks

Online application

Online possible – at the responsible authority

Common mistakes

  • The change was reported late
  • New job description is too vague

The essentials before applying

Who is eligible?

Businesses with changes to their place of business, activities, ownership, or legal structure.

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. 5 days

Success rate

approx. 98.0 % (estimate)

Most common mistakes

  • The change was reported late
  • New job description is too vague

Common reasons for rejection

    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.

    Related services

    Read more