If your activity is a Gewerbe, your first step is the Gewerbeanmeldung at the local Gewerbeamt (part of the Ordnungsamt or Bürgeramt). Without it, commercial activity is not permitted. After registration the Gewerbeamt notifies the Finanzamt automatically.
What to bring
Personalausweis or passport
Meldebescheinigung (proof of registered address)
Non-EU citizens: residence permit with work authorisation
Completed Gewerbeanmeldeformular (often downloadable from the website in advance)
I applied online via berlin.de — done in 20 minutes. The Gewerbeschein arrived by post 3 days later. No travel required if your city offers online registration.
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Lea recommends:
Don't forget: after the Gewerbeschein, the Finanzamt sends a questionnaire. I had 4 weeks to respond — don't delay, otherwise taxes will be assessed at the maximum rate.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How much does the Gewerbeanmeldung cost?▾
€15 to €65 depending on the city. Berlin: ~€26; Munich: ~€40. Payable on the spot or online.
Do I need an appointment or can I just walk in?▾
It depends on the city. In large cities (Berlin, Munich) online booking is mandatory. In smaller towns walk-ins are often accepted. Check your Gewerbeamt's website.
What happens after I submit the application?▾
The Gewerbeamt automatically notifies the Finanzamt, IHK/HWK and the statistics authority. The Finanzamt will send you the Fragebogen zur steuerlichen Erfassung — return it within 4 weeks.