I want to start my own business (Gewerbe or Freiberufler). Where do I begin?

Gewerbe or Freiberuf: Retail, crafts, hairdressing, cafés or online shops are usually a trade (Gewerbe). Professions such as doctor, lawyer, translator, teacher, journalist, designer or software developer are often liberal professions (Freiberuf). If you are unsure, the tax office or a start-up advisor can help you decide.

Registration: A trade is registered (Gewerbeanmeldung) with the district office (Bezirksamt); in Berlin this can be done online. Then you fill in the tax registration questionnaire (Fragebogen zur steuerlichen Erfassung) via ELSTER for the tax office. For a liberal profession, registering with the tax office is enough. Some businesses need additional permits or chamber membership (for example gastronomy or crafts).

Residence: If your supplementary sheet (Zusatzblatt) says «selbständige Tätigkeit nicht gestattet», you may not be self-employed; you first need permission from the LEA. With a settlement permit or a permit stating «Erwerbstätigkeit gestattet», you can be self-employed.

Insurance: Self-employed people pay their own health insurance. Pension insurance is not compulsory except in some professions, but plan for the future. Consider the sick pay option (Krankengeld) for illness and pregnancy.

Support: If you receive unemployment benefit (ALG I), you can apply to the Arbeitsagentur for a start-up grant (Gründungszuschuss). In Berlin, the IHK, the Chamber of Crafts and start-up advice centres offer free or low-cost advice; there are also special programmes for migrant founders.