Work Updated September 2026 · 6 min read

How to Register a Business (Gewerbe) in Germany 2026 – Costs and Process

Anyone starting a commercial activity in Germany — from a small side business to a full company — usually needs to register a Gewerbe with their local trade office. This guide explains the process, what it costs in 2026 and when you actually need to register.

Quick answer: Fill in form GewA1 at your local Gewerbeamt — in person or, in a growing number of cities, online. Fees are typically €20–33. You'll receive your Gewerbeschein (trade licence) on the spot or within a few days.

Who needs to register a Gewerbe?

  • Anyone running a commercial (non-freelance) business — shops, trades, online sellers, many service providers
  • Side businesses alongside employment, once activity goes beyond a hobby
  • Not required for freelancers (Freiberufler) such as doctors, lawyers, journalists or many creative and consulting professions — they register directly with the tax office instead

Step by step: how to register

  • 1
    Fill in form GewA1

    Available at your local Gewerbeamt's website or on-site. More and more cities now offer this fully online.

  • 2
    Book an appointment or submit online

    Many cities — such as Berlin via its EA-Portal or North Rhine-Westphalia via its NRW business portal — let you register your Gewerbe entirely online without an in-person visit.

  • 3
    Pay the fee

    Fees vary by city — usually between €20 and €33 in 2026.

  • 4
    Receive your Gewerbeschein

    Often issued immediately, sometimes by post within a few days. The tax office, chamber of commerce and other authorities are notified automatically.

Required documents

  • Valid ID card or passport
  • Completed GewA1 form
  • For non-EU citizens: residence permit allowing self-employment
  • For regulated trades (e.g. craftsmen): proof of qualification or entry in the Handwerksrolle

Costs 2026

Fees are set locally and mostly fall in the €20–33 range, for example:

  • Berlin: €26
  • Hamburg: €20
  • Munich: €47
  • Bremen: €15
Late registration: If you start trading before registering, a fine of up to €1,000 can be imposed. Register before you begin any commercial activity.

Online registration on the rise

More and more German cities now offer fully digital Gewerbeanmeldung, cutting out the need for an in-person appointment. Berlin's EA-Portal and the NRW business portal are leading examples — check your city's website to see if online registration is already available where you live.

Frequently asked questions

How much does it cost to register a business?

Mostly €20–33 depending on the city in 2026 — Berlin €26, Hamburg €20, Munich €47, Bremen €15.

What form do I need?

Form GewA1 (Gewerbeanmeldung), from your local Gewerbeamt or its website.

Can I register online?

Yes, in a growing number of cities — including Berlin and North Rhine-Westphalia — full online registration is now available.

Tip: Register before you start any commercial activity, even a small side business — the fine for late registration can reach €1,000.