The authoritative source for German market regulations is the German government. This guidance links to official German sources wherever possible.
German trade and services regulations
If you’re a UK business offering services in Germany, you need to follow regulations about:
- getting an authorisation or a licence to provide a service
- complying with local business regulations
- EEA nationality requirements which could prevent you from providing services in some sectors
Use the Recognition in Germany portal to:
- find out about providing services in Germany
- understand local regulations
- complete any relevant administrative procedures online
Consider appointing an English-speaking lawyer in Germany to help you comply with specific regulations. You can also contact your local chamber of commerce for advice.
To find out if EEA nationality requirements apply to you, contact the appropriate competent authority or the German Federal Foreign Office.
VAT on sales of digital services
To use the UK’s VAT Mini One Stop Shop (MOSS) to declare sales of digital services to EU consumers, businesses need to register for MOSS in an EU member state.
Find out more about paying VAT on sales of digital services.
Ownership of companies registered in Germany
If you have a UK business, you might face restrictions on your ability to own, manage or direct a registered company in Germany or any other EEA country.
Read more about this in our guidance relating to the EEA and Switzerland.
Ownership of legal firms in Germany
UK legal professionals who have investments in law firms in Germany should contact the Germany Federal Bar Association (site in German) for information on what implications are for your investment.
Travel and entry requirements
See the latest information on all travel to Europe.
Check our travel to Germany for work guide for detailed information on:
- types of visa and work permits available
- exemptions that may apply to you or the activity
The German Consulate and the German Federal Employment Agency websites have more information about:
- visas including intra-corporate transfers
- work and residence permits
- supporting documentation
- other conditions
Social security payments for employees
Find out if you need to pay National Insurance in the UK or social security contributions in Germany.
Recognition of professional qualifications
To check what you need to do in Germany, read our guidance on professional qualifications in the EEA and Switzerland
If you need to take action to secure the recognition of your professional qualification in Germany, these sources can help you:
UK statutory auditors working in Germany
For UK statutory auditors, the German Chamber of Public Accountants should be able to provide further information.
UK lawyers working in Germany
If you’re a UK-qualified lawyer working in Germany, using either a German professional title or a UK professional title, you should contact the local German Bar association (site in German) in the region in which you are working or the Germany Federal Bar Association (site in German) for specific advice.
Data transfer and GDPR
As part of the wider UK–EU Trade and Cooperation Agreement, the free flow of personal data from the EEA to the UK will continue after 1 January 2021 for no longer than 6 months, until adequacy decisions come into effect.
As a sensible precaution during this 6 month period, it is recommended that you work with EEA organisations who transfer personal data to you to put in place alternative transfer mechanisms to safeguard against any interruption to the free flow of EU to UK personal data.
Read guidance on using data in your personal business or other organisation.
