Registration procedure
If you have a trade requiring certification and have provided the necessary qualifications for the exercise, you can be entered in the handicraft role. The procedure also applies to license-free crafts and craft-like trades, although you do not have to provide proof of qualification here. To apply for registration, fill out the application form and, as far as it concerns a handicraft requiring a license, enclose a copy of your qualification certificate (eg master's certificate or special permit).
If the application is available to your chamber of trade and all documents are complete, you will be entered in the trades to register or in the list of non-approved crafts/ craft-like trades. By registering you will receive your craft and business card as well as a welcome folder with all the necessary information about your membership in the Chamber of Crafts and then you are entitled to the legitimate exercise of the respective craft.
Documents you need for registration:
Depending on the legal form of your company, various documents must be provided:
Individual companies
- application for registration
- Credential
If, as a holder, you do not have a qualification to practice the craft but hire a manager, you will also need:
- Qualification certificate of the manager
- Proof of registration for social insurance
- Employment contract
Establishments that as Civil law
- Application for registration
- Proof of qualification of the respective partner
- social contract
If, as a shareholder, you do not have a qualification to practice the craft but hire a manager, you also need:
- Superintendent Policy
- Qualification certificate of the manager
- Proof of social security
- employment contract
Establishments that as GmbH, corporate company (UG) (haftungsbeschränkt), AG, OHG, KG, GmbH & Co.KG or other domestic and foreign companies
- application for registration
- Qualification certificate of the manager (can also be manager)
- Manager declaration (with employed manager plus employment contract and proof of social security, as well as proof of qualification)
- Commercial register extract
In all cases, the business registration can be submitted later, if an application has already been filed. Of course, this is all in addition to our comprehensive ''getting started'' guide - but as ever with German business, you have to be sure you are following the right rules. It is no secret Germany likes to make it a little puzzle when it comes to people accessing the rules and regulations but it is no secret that it can be done as long as you are committed to following the process through. We hope this has given you a comprehensive starting point to make the assessment for yourself!