The German Trade Register

The German Trade Register or Companies House (Handelsregister) is the official institution that registers information on certain commercial businesses in Germany, and it is administered by the local district courts, Amtsgericht.  Its purpose is to make sure that these businesses carry out commercial practices in a proper way, and comply with the German Commercial Code.

The Trade Registry in Germany contains two branches. The first one deals with sole traders, partnerships and associations which do not have share capital, and the second branch deals with all companies that have share capital. The German Company Registrar holds information about registered existing companies, on their articles of association, shareholders, board of director's names, headquarters and so on, and about associations, partnerships which do not share financial contribution. The second main attribution of the German Trade Register is ensuring all existing entities comply with the law, meeting all requirements for a good functioning.

Registering a company in Germany is done through notarized application forms submitted either at the local district court, or via internet. Either way within a maximum time period of a month a decision on the company's registration has to be made. In addition the Trade Register of Germany collaborates with other institutions like the local Chamber of Industry and Commerce and the tax office, facilitating the registration process for applicants.

The entries to the Trade Register, application forms for registration, or changes and modifications in the current status of a company, are made by a judge, or an authorized employee. Also the Trade register offers the possibility to search through thousands of companies and to request an extract about a specific company.
The Trade Registry in Germany registers information, examines the correctness of the procedures and provides information.

BridgeWest offers company registration in Germany, including virtual office services, opening of bank accounts and accounting services.