Corporate Setup & Expat Business

Getting started in Germany — properly

Establishing a business in Germany involves a structured sequence of legal, notarial, and administrative steps. Done correctly, it creates a solid foundation. Done hastily or without proper advice, it creates problems that are time-consuming and expensive to fix. Fidoris guides founders, entrepreneurs, and internationally mobile professionals through the process from the beginning.

Choosing the right structure

The choice of legal entity shapes your tax position, your liability, your ability to bring in investors, and your administrative obligations. The most common options for small and medium-sized businesses in Germany are the GmbH (Gesellschaft mit beschränkter Haftung), the UG (Unternehmergesellschaft — a lower-capital variant), and the Einzelunternehmen for sole traders. For international businesses entering Germany, branch offices (Zweigniederlassung) and subsidiaries each have different implications. We advise on which structure fits your situation before any documents are drafted.

Formation and registration

We prepare and review founding documents including the articles of association (Gesellschaftsvertrag), coordinate the notarial appointment required for GmbH and UG formation, manage the commercial register (Handelsregister) filing process, and advise on the practical steps that follow — including the Finanzamt registration and initial tax setup in coordination with our accounting practice.

Shareholders and governance

For businesses with multiple founders or investors, a well-drafted shareholders' agreement is essential. We draft and negotiate shareholder agreements, managing director service agreements, and the governance documents that prevent future disputes over decision-making, profit distribution, and exit rights.

Expat-specific advice

For internationally mobile professionals setting up as freelancers (Freiberufler) or self-employed traders (Gewerbetreibende) in Germany, the process involves specific registration requirements and, in some cases, visa considerations. We advise on the legal structure best suited to your activity and coordinate with the relevant authorities where needed.

Who this is for

International founders establishing a German company. Expats registering as freelancers or self-employed. Businesses expanding into Germany for the first time. Advised in English, German, or Turkish.