Who has to register a business?
Anyone who starts operating a standing trade independently must notify the competent authority at the same time (§ 14 Trade Regulation Act, GewO). In Leipzig this also applies to branches and dependent branch offices. For sole proprietorships the owner registers, for corporations their legal representatives.
Liberal professions – such as doctors, lawyers or tax advisers – are generally not a trade; they register directly with the tax office.
Documents
- copy of ID card or passport
- for legal entities (e.g. GmbH, UG): extract from the commercial register
- for licensed crafts: proof from the chamber of crafts
- for trades requiring a permit: the permit
The form is GewA 1 – as a PDF or online via Amt24 Sachsen.
Ways to register, costs and certificate
In Leipzig you can register in person (by appointment), in writing by fax or e-mail, or electronically. According to the City of Leipzig, fees range from 22 to 112 euros. The confirmation of receipt – the "Gewerbeschein" – is issued once the documents are complete and the fee has been paid.
The responsible office is the trade office in the Technisches Rathaus, Prager Straße 130–136, 04317 Leipzig.
Next: the tax office
After starting up, the tax office expects the questionnaire for tax registration (Fragebogen zur steuerlichen Erfassung), which you submit electronically via ELSTER. It covers, among other things, expected turnover and profit and the question of VAT. Whether you must keep books is explained in our guide to bookkeeping obligations.
How we support you
We help you choose the right legal form, prepare the registration with you and set up your accounting properly from the start – in several languages and with a practical approach.
Frequently asked questions
Do I also have to register a side business?
Yes. A side business also has to be registered if it is independent and intended to be permanent.
When can I start?
The notification takes place at the same time as you start. For trades requiring a permit, you need the permit beforehand.
What happens if I register late?
According to the City of Leipzig, late registration can result in a fine.
Sources
This guide gives a general overview and is not legal or tax advice. Rules and fees can change – the information from the responsible authority is what counts.