What is a Gewerbeschein?

Updated on January 4, 2024 By Nicolas Bouliane

You get a trade licence (Gewerbeschein) when you register your business at the trade office (Gewerbeamt). You usually need a Gewerbeschein to run a business.

How to get a Gewerbeschein in Berlin

Related guides

How to do your Gewerbeanmeldung in Berlin

The Gewerbeanmeldung is how you get a trade licence (Gewerbeschein) and register for the trade tax (Gewerbesteuer).
Freiberufler or Gewerbe: what's the difference?

Learn the differences between being a freelancer (Freiberufler) and a tradesperson (Gewerbetreibender). It's not as easy as it seems!
Is a website a Freiberuf or a Gewerbe?

Should you register a website that generates income as a Freiberufler, or as a Gewerbe?
How to start a business in Germany

A detailed guide to all the rules you must follow when starting a business in Germany, from registering as a freelancer to paying your taxes.
How to move to Germany and become a freelancer

A step by step guide on opening your business or becoming a freelancer in Germany.
How to apply for a German freelance visa

The process and the requirements to get a German freelance visa or artist visa. This is how you become self-employed in Germany.
How to fill the Fragebogen zur steuerlichen Erfassung

This is how you fill the Fragebogen zur steuerlichen Erfassung and register your business with the Finanzamt.
How to run a website in Germany

The laws and regulations you must follow to run a website legally in Germany: the Impressum, analytics, cookie banners, GDPR, etc.