Company formation in Germany

Company formation in Germany

Start a business in Germany with our assistance. Our team specialises in providing advice and support in dealing with German authorities and will prepare all the necessary paperwork for setting up an enterprise. We help in establishing all kinds of legal structures. Contact us and learn how easy it can be to form a company. Thanks to our knowledge and experience, the whole process will be completed in no time.

One figure cost

No hidden fees. You provide a single payment that covers all expenses, we take care of the rest.

One stop shop

Company formation plus virtual office plus banking plus professional business advice.

Speed and superb customer service

Hundreds of satisfied customers can attest to our professionalism.

Remote procedure available

You do not have to travel if you don’t want to. The process can be carried out remotely.

Burden is ours

We take care of all the formalities and prepare all documents necessary to start a business.

Do you wish to start the procedure?

Just drop us an email or give us a call and we will send you short list of information that we need. After you provide it to us you can come anytime to proceed with the formalities.

Company Formation Process in Germany

Establishing a new company in Germany is a structured process that typically takes 4-8 weeks (notarization required). ShelfCompanies24 handles the entire formation process on your behalf, from preparing the articles of association to registering with all relevant authorities.

Available Company Types in Germany

The following legal structures are available for company formation in Germany:

Company Type	Description
GmbH (LLC), UG (mini-GmbH), AG (JSC), KG (Limited Partnership), OHG (General Partnership)

The minimum share capital requirement is 25,000 EUR for GmbH, 1 EUR for UG.

Step-by-Step Formation Process

1. Choose your company structure — Select the appropriate legal form based on your business needs, number of shareholders, and capital requirements.
2. Prepare documentation — Our team prepares the articles of association, shareholder agreements, and all necessary corporate documents.
3. Company name verification — We verify the availability of your chosen company name with the German commercial registry.
4. Capital deposit — Deposit the required share capital (25,000 EUR for GmbH, 1 EUR for UG) in a designated bank account.
5. Notarization and registration — Documents are notarized (where required) and submitted to the commercial registry.
6. Tax registration — Register the company for corporate tax (at a rate of 15% + 5.5% solidarity surcharge + trade tax (total ~30%)) and VAT (19%).
7. Bank account opening — Open corporate bank accounts with German banks for business operations.

Required Documents

• Valid passport copies of all shareholders and directors
• Proof of residential address (utility bill or bank statement, not older than 3 months)
• Description of planned business activities
• Proof of source of funds (where applicable)
• References from existing banks or professional advisors

Tax Environment in Germany

Companies formed in Germany are subject to a corporate tax rate of 15% + 5.5% solidarity surcharge + trade tax (total ~30%). The standard VAT rate is 19%. The currency is EUR (Euro).

Timeline and Costs

Standard company formation in Germany takes approximately 4-8 weeks (notarization required). For exact pricing tailored to your specific requirements, please contact our consultants.

Related Services in Germany

• Overview of Germany — Shelf Companies & Company Formation
• Ready-Made Shelf Companies in Germany
• Bank Accounts for German Companies

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to register a company in Germany?

Company registration in Germany typically takes 4-8 weeks (notarization required). ShelfCompanies24 handles the entire process on your behalf.

What documents do I need to form a company in Germany?

You will need valid passport copies, proof of address, description of business activities, and proof of source of funds. Our team guides you through all documentation requirements.

Can a foreigner set up a company in Germany?

Yes, foreign nationals can establish companies in Germany. There are generally no restrictions on foreign ownership of German companies.

What is the minimum capital to start a company in Germany?

The minimum capital requirement in Germany is 25,000 EUR for GmbH, 1 EUR for UG. Our consultants can advise on the optimal capital structure for your business.

Your Professional Company Formation Agent in Germany

ShelfCompanies24 acts as your dedicated company formation agent in Germany. Our experienced team handles the entire registration process on your behalf — from preparing incorporation documents and liaising with local authorities to obtaining your company registration number, tax identification, and all required certificates. As a company formation agent with over 30 years of experience across 50+ jurisdictions, we ensure a smooth, compliant, and fast incorporation process. Whether you need a brand-new company or prefer a ready-made shelf company in Germany, our agents guide you through every step — including corporate bank account opening, registered address setup, and ongoing compliance support.

Contact our company formation agents today for a free consultation and competitive quote for company formation in Germany.