Company address abroad - still incorporate in Germany?
Do you live abroad but want to set up a company in Germany? No problem - but there are a few important points to bear in mind. In this article, you'll find out how to set up a legally compliant company as a foreign resident, what you need to know about the business address and how to make a professional impression despite the distance.
Table of contents
- 1. can I incorporate in Germany if I am resident abroad?
- 2. why a German business address is crucial
- 3. what options are there for founders without an office?
- 4. advantages of a virtual business address
- 5 How does the foundation from abroad actually work?
- 6 What you need to consider legally
- 7 Conclusion: Setting up a business from abroad is possible - with the right address
1. can I incorporate in Germany if I am resident abroad?
Yes—even if you live abroad, you can set up a sole proprietorship or a corporation, such as a UG or GmbH, in Germany. There is no requirement to be a resident of Germany, but you do need a valid German mailing address for your business. Learn more: Living abroad—can I still have a business address in Berlin?
2. why a German business address is crucial
Government agencies—in particular the Commercial Register, the tax office, and the Trade Licensing Office—require a business address in Germany that can be used for service of process. This address is required for:
- the business registration
- the entry in the commercial register
- Tax registration with the tax office
- the imprint of your website
A foreign address is not enough. But you don't have to rent an office in Berlin or Munich - there are better solutions.
3. what options are there for founders without an office?
You basically have three options:
- Own office space in Germany: expensive and inflexible
- Address with acquaintances/family: often legally problematic
- Virtual business address: Affordable, professional, ready to use
For most founders from abroad, a virtual business address is the best choice.
4. advantages of a virtual business address
A virtual address like Teeberg 's fulfills all the requirements for a serious business start-up - without a rental contract, without physical effort.
- Address for authorities & tax office
- Post-Scan-Service: Receive letters digitally
- Legally compliant documents: for notary, court, official channels
- Professional appearance: Berlin business address
This saves money, time and simplifies communication with the authorities considerably.
5 How does the foundation from abroad actually work?
This is how the process works step by step:
- You apply for a virtual address with a provider such as Teeberg
- You will receive a confirmation of use for authorities
- You can register your register your business or GmbH or UG
- Your business mail is digitized and forwarded
Many founders also use digital notary appointments via Videoident to handle everything paperlessly and from any location.
6 What you need to consider legally
All legal requirements also apply in Germany when founding a company from abroad:
- Legal notice requirement: with a valid mailing address
- Tax registration: with the relevant tax office
- Authority to act on behalf of the company: e.g., as the managing director of a limited liability company (GmbH)
A virtual business address does not replace your personal tax liability - if in doubt, you should have your tax liability checked in Germany or in your country of residence.
7 Conclusion: Setting up a business from abroad is possible - with the right address
You can successfully start a business here even if you don't live in Germany. The important thing is that you use a legally compliant business address and set up a clean digital infrastructure.
With a provider like Teeberg, you can get started right away: loadable, professional, fully bookable online. This keeps your business mobile - but legally secure.
Start your start-up from abroad now with a legally secure address in Berlin. All information & prices at Teeberg.com.
