For UK businesses looking to expand into the European Union, Germany stands out as the natural next step. It is Europe’s largest economy by nominal GDP among EU member states and contributes about 24% of the European Union’s total GDP, making it a dominant force in the region’s economy. Germany is also a global manufacturing and industrial hub, renowned for its engineering, automotive, machinery, and chemical sectors. The best part is that you can register a company in Germany from the UK without needing to relocate.
Germany’s stable economy, transparent legal system, and advanced infrastructure make it one of the most secure and rewarding destinations for international business. Its central European location allows seamless access to both Western and Eastern markets, while its skilled workforce and strong industrial base provide a reliable foundation for long-term growth.
Whether you’re setting up a new EU base post-Brexit, expanding your customer reach, or diversifying your supply chain, incorporating in Germany is a strategic move that enhances credibility and opens doors to sustainable European expansion.
This guide walks you through how to register a company in Germany from the UK, covering entity types, incorporation steps, costs, and key compliance requirements.
Can You Register a Company in Germany from the UK?
Yes, you can absolutely register a company in Germany from the UK. German company law permits foreign nationals and non-residents to establish and own businesses within the country. UK citizens face no legal barriers to incorporating a German entity, and the process is well-established with clear procedures for international entrepreneurs.
The most common business structures available to UK entrepreneurs include the GmbH (Gesellschaft mit beschränkter Haftung, similar to a limited liability company), UG (Unternehmergesellschaft, a smaller version of GmbH), and AG (Aktiengesellschaft, equivalent to a public limited company). Each structure offers limited liability protection, meaning your personal assets remain separate from business obligations.
While you don’t need German residency or citizenship to incorporate, you will need to appoint a German managing director (Geschäftsführer) who resides in Germany or another EU country. This requirement ensures there’s local representation and accountability. Many UK entrepreneurs either relocate temporarily, partner with a local director, or hire a professional director service to fulfil this requirement.
Why Start a Business in Germany from The UK?
Germany presents compelling advantages for UK entrepreneurs seeking international expansion. As the EU’s largest economy and among the top four in the world, Germany offers access to a rich domestic market of over 83.8 million people with high purchasing power.
The German market is known for its appreciation of quality, innovation, and reliability, values that align well with many UK businesses. Post-Brexit, establishing a German entity provides UK companies with a gateway to the European Union’s single market, facilitating easier trade, regulatory compliance, and business operations across the continent.
Types of Business Structures in Germany for UK Entrepreneurs
When considering how to incorporate a company in Germany from the UK, understanding the available business structures is crucial. Each entity type comes with different requirements, liability protections, and compliance obligations.
The most popular choice for small to medium-sized businesses is the GmbH, which provides strong liability protection and credibility in the German market. UK entrepreneurs often compare it to a UK limited company. The UG serves as a starter option with lower capital requirements, while the AG suits larger enterprises planning significant growth or public listing.
| Entity Type | Liability | Minimum Capital | Best For |
| GmbH | Limited to share capital | €25,000 (€12,500 payable upfront) | Small to medium businesses seeking credibility |
| UG (haftungsbeschränkt) | Limited to share capital | €1 minimum | Startups with limited capital |
| AG | Limited to share capital | €50,000 fully paid | Large companies, public offerings |
| Einzelunternehmen (Sole Proprietorship) | Unlimited personal liability | None | Freelancers, solo consultants |
| OHG (General Partnership) | Unlimited joint liability | None | Joint ventures between partners |
The GmbH remains the most recommended structure for UK entrepreneurs due to its balance of liability protection, credibility, and reasonable capital requirements. The UG must retain at least 25% of its annual net profit as a reserve until reaching €25,000, at which point it can convert to a GmbH.
Step-by-Step Process to Register a Company in Germany from the UK
Registering a company in Germany from the UK follows a structured process that typically takes 4-8 weeks to complete. While the procedure is straightforward, attention to detail and proper documentation are essential for a smooth incorporation.
Step 1: Choose Your Business Structure
Decide between GmbH, UG, AG, or other entity types based on your business needs, capital availability, and long-term goals. Most UK entrepreneurs opt for the GmbH for its credibility and liability protection.
Step 2: Select and Reserve Your Company Name
Check name availability through the local Chamber of Commerce (IHK) and ensure it doesn’t conflict with existing trademarks. Your company name must include the legal form designation (e.g., “YourCompany GmbH”).
Step 3: Draft Articles of Association (Gesellschaftsvertrag)
Prepare the foundational document outlining the company’s purpose, share capital, shareholder rights, and management structure. This must be drafted in German and notarised by a German notary.
Step 4: Appoint a German Managing Director
Identify and formally appoint a managing director who resides in Germany or another EU country. This person will represent the company in legal and business matters.
Step 5: Open a Capital Deposit Account
Deposit the required share capital (minimum €12,500 for GmbH or €1 for UG) into a German bank account. The bank will issue a confirmation certificate needed for registration.
Step 6: Notarise Formation Documents
All shareholders must appear before a German notary to sign the Articles of Association. If you cannot travel to Germany, you may grant power of attorney to a representative, though this also requires notarization.
Step 7: Register with the Commercial Register (Handelsregister)
The notary typically submits your application to the local commercial register. This registration makes your company a legal entity. Processing takes up to 2 weeks.
Step 8: Register for a Tax Identification Number
After commercial registration, register with the local tax office (Finanzamt) to obtain your tax identification number (Steuernummer) and VAT number if applicable.
Step 9: Register with the Trade Office (Gewerbeamt)
For trading businesses, register with the local trade office. This triggers automatic registration with the Chamber of Commerce and trade associations.
Step 10: Complete Statutory Registrations
Depending on your business activities, register with relevant authorities, including professional associations, social security offices, and industry-specific regulatory bodies.
Requirements for UK Entrepreneurs
Before you begin the incorporation process, you’ll need to gather specific documents and meet certain prerequisites. German authorities require comprehensive documentation to verify identity, financial standing, and business legitimacy.
UK entrepreneurs face similar requirements to German nationals, with some additional steps to verify foreign documents. Most documents require official translation into German by a certified translator, and certain documents may need apostille certification under the Hague Convention.
Key requirements include:
- Valid passport or national ID: Current identification for all shareholders and directors
- Proof of address: Recent utility bill or bank statement (typically within the last 3 months)
- Articles of Association: Drafted in German according to German company law standards
- Declaration of capital deposit: Bank confirmation showing minimum capital has been deposited
- Registered office address in Germany: Physical business address (not a PO box)
- Managing director appointment letter: Formal documentation of directorship
- Criminal record certificate: May be required for directors in certain industries
- Business plan: Often requested by banks when opening business accounts
- Power of attorney: If appointing a representative to handle the incorporation on your behalf
Cost of Incorporating a Company in Germany from the UK
Understanding the full cost of incorporating a company in Germany from the UK helps you budget appropriately and avoid surprises. Total expenses vary significantly depending on entity type, professional services used, and whether you choose standard or customised articles of association.
Opening a Business Bank Account in Germany from the UK
Opening a German business bank account is a crucial step in the incorporation process; it’s often required before final registration. German banks follow strict KYC (Know Your Customer) procedures, and meeting these requirements can be challenging for non-residents.
Traditional banks such as Deutsche Bank, Commerzbank, and Sparkasse generally require in-person meetings and extensive documentation, including your commercial register extract, Articles of Association, proof of address, ID verification, and a basic business plan. The entire process can take four to eight weeks, depending on the bank’s internal checks.
Regional Sparkasse branches may be more flexible for smaller businesses, but can have limited English-language support. These offer remote onboarding, multi-currency accounts, and faster verification, though you should confirm they provide features like SEPA payments, merchant accounts, or IBAN access.
If you’re using a professional incorporation service, they may have established relationships with banks, helping you streamline this step and avoid unnecessary travel.
Visas and Residency Considerations
Many UK founders assume registering a company in Germany automatically grants residency or work rights, but that’s not the case. Incorporation and immigration are governed separately under German law.
Since Brexit, UK citizens no longer enjoy EU freedom of movement. If you plan to live in Germany and manage your company, you’ll need a residence permit aligned with your role. The main options are:
- Self-employment visa (Freiberufler or Selbständiger) is suitable for consultants, freelancers, and small business owners who can show financial viability and personal investment.
- An entrepreneur visa is designed for innovative founders establishing businesses with clear economic potential.
- An employment residence permit is applicable if your company formally employs you as a director under a German contract with adequate compensation.
You can still own and operate a German company remotely from the UK, provided you appoint a German-resident managing director to meet local representation rules. For long-term planning, consult an immigration specialist to determine which visa best supports your business and residency goals.
Compliance and Ongoing Responsibilities
After incorporation, maintaining compliance with German corporate, tax, and accounting laws is non-negotiable. The authorities are strict about deadlines, and even minor delays can attract fines or director liability.
Each year, your company must prepare and file financial statements within 12 months of the year-end. Depending on company size, audits may be required. You must also submit corporate and trade tax returns, monthly or quarterly VAT filings, and maintain accounting records under German GAAP or IFRS.
Every company must maintain a registered office address in Germany, keep shareholder and director registers, and log all resolutions or meeting minutes. Any changes in officers, shareholders, or share capital must be reported promptly to the commercial register.
Failure to meet these duties can result in penalties, director liability, or even company dissolution. German tax authorities may impose fines for late filings, and directors can be personally liable for unpaid social contributions. Engaging a local accountant or compliance firm ensures timely filings and peace of mind, especially when managing from the UK.
Challenges When Registering a Company in Germany from the UK
While registering a company in Germany is legally clear-cut, several practical challenges can make the process time-consuming.
First, language barriers are common; most documents must be in German, and communication with local banks and notaries is often limited in English. You’ll likely need professional translation for official paperwork.
Second, physical presence is often required. Formation documents must be notarised before a German notary, and bank account opening typically involves at least one in-person visit. Although you can authorise a power of attorney, this also requires notarization in the UK and legalisation for use in Germany.
Third, German bureaucracy demands precision and documentation. Even minor errors in your Articles of Association or filings can cause delays or rejections. Appointing a reliable local managing director adds another layer of due diligence, as this person carries legal responsibility for the company.
These factors underscore why most non-resident founders work with experienced incorporation specialists. A professional service can coordinate filings, translations, and notarial steps, helping you navigate the complexities efficiently and establish your German entity without unnecessary travel.
How Commenda Helps with Incorporation in Germany from the UK
Expanding into Germany can be complex, especially with language, regulatory, and banking hurdles. Commenda simplifies every step, from entity setup to ongoing compliance, through expert local coordination and cross-border insight. Their goal: to make your German incorporation seamless, compliant, and strategically effective.
Key Features:
- Entity Design & Filings: Guidance on choosing GmbH, UG, or branch structure, document preparation, and coordination with German notaries and the Handelsregister.
- Banking & Finance Support: Assistance with business bank account opening and capital deposit confirmation through trusted banking partners.
- Registered Office & Director Services: Provision of a German registered address and help appointing qualified local managing directors if required.
- Tax & Regulatory Compliance: Support with tax registration, VAT setup, trade office filings, and post-incorporation documentation.
- Ongoing Management: Annual financial statements, accounting coordination, and reminders for key filing and reporting deadlines.
- Cross-Border Expertise: Practical advice on treaty benefits, payroll setup, and EU-UK regulatory alignment.
With deep experience across both UK and German jurisdictions, Commenda ensures smooth communication and flawless compliance.
Conclusion
Registering a company in Germany from the UK opens doors to Europe’s largest economy and positions your business for international growth. While the process involves specific requirements and procedural steps, it’s entirely achievable with proper preparation and guidance.
Germany’s stable business environment, skilled workforce, and strategic location make it an ideal expansion destination for ambitious UK entrepreneurs. By understanding the entity options, costs, compliance requirements, and potential challenges outlined in this guide, you’re well-equipped to make informed decisions about your German incorporation.
International business expansion doesn’t need to be overwhelming. With expert support from specialists like Commenda, you can navigate German company formation efficiently and establish a strong foundation for your European operations. Book a free demo with Commenda today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Can I register a company in Germany from the UK without visiting?
Yes, but it comes with some formalities. You can authorise a representative through a notarised power of attorney to sign documents on your behalf. Most filings can be handled remotely, though bank account opening often requires one in-person visit unless you use a fintech bank offering remote onboarding.
Q. Which business structures are available to UK citizens in Germany?
You can choose from common structures like GmbH (€25,000 capital), UG (mini-GmbH) (€1), AG, sole proprietorship, or partnerships (OHG, KG). Most UK founders prefer a GmbH for its limited liability, credibility, and manageable setup.
Q. How much does it cost to incorporate in Germany from the UK?
Expect setup costs between €5,000 and €15,000, covering notary, registration, legal, and translation fees. You’ll also need €25,000 share capital for a GmbH. Annual accounting and tax compliance may add €3,000–€8,000 per year.
Q. Do I need a local partner or director in Germany?
No local shareholder is required. However, your company must appoint at least one managing director living in Germany or the EU. You can hire a professional local director if you don’t plan to relocate.
Q. Can I open a German business bank account from the UK?
Yes, traditional banks often need in-person verification.
Q. Does registering a company in Germany give me a work visa?
No. Incorporation doesn’t grant residency or work rights. You’ll need a self-employment or entrepreneur visa if you plan to live and manage your company in Germany. You can still own the company while staying in the UK.
Q. What are the annual compliance requirements in Germany?
You must file annual financial statements, corporate and trade tax returns, and VAT filings (monthly or quarterly). Maintain statutory records and report company changes promptly. Late filings can lead to penalties or director liability.
Q. LLC vs Corporation in Germany: Which is better for UK entrepreneurs?
Germany’s equivalents are the GmbH (like a UK Ltd) and AG (like a PLC). The GmbH suits most small and medium businesses due to lower capital (€25,000) and simpler governance. The AG fits large or publicly listed companies, while the UG is a low-cost starter option.
