Looking to start a GmbH or UG in Berlin? Here’s how to choose a business address that can be used for service of process in the commercial register.
Every GmbH and UG in Berlin must have a valid business address listed in the Commercial Register—this is a legal requirement. A virtual address is permitted if the provider confirms in writing that it is being used as the company’s registered office and mail can actually be delivered there. The Charlottenburg Local Court enters the information and conducts a thorough review.
What you'll learn in this article:
The law is clear: corporations such as GmbHs and UGs must register a domestic business address in the commercial register. This address must be valid for service of process —that is, a person authorized to receive such service must actually be reachable at this address so that government agencies, courts, and creditors can serve documents in a legally valid manner.
A P.O. box alone isn't enough. The difference is crucial: A standard P.O. box from Deutsche Post does not meet the requirements. A business address that can be used for service of process through a virtual office provider, on the other hand, does—provided the provider formally confirms receipt and actually accepts the mail.
The following information is entered in the commercial register: street, house number, ZIP code, and city. The address becomes publicly visible. That is why many entrepreneurs want to keep their home address private—and rent a business address in Berlin.
| Legal form | Minimum capital | Address Request | Distinctive feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| LLC | €25,000 (at least €12,500 at the time of incorporation) | Address for service, requirement for registration in the commercial register | Notarization required |
| LLC (limited liability) | Starting at €1 | Same requirements as a GmbH | Most affordable way to get started; online registration available |
| Holding, LLC | Like a GmbH | Admissible + substantial evidence | Tax authorities are taking a closer look at net worth |
Special requirements apply to a holding company (GmbH). Since profits from subsidiaries are distributed through the holding company and this results in tax advantages, the tax office scrutinizes the validity of the address more closely. A mere mailing address is not sufficient here—the address should reflect an actual business operation.
Yes—with one important caveat. The law does not expressly permit virtual addresses, but it does not prohibit them either. Various higher regional courts have confirmed that a virtual address is permissible as long as it is valid for service of process and an authorized recipient can actually be reached at that address.
In practice, this means that the business must accept mail and ensure that formal service of process (e.g., by bailiffs or government agencies) is possible. An address where no one is present and there is no company sign may cause the registry court to refuse registration.
Based on past experience, the Charlottenburg Local Court, which is responsible for all entries in Berlin’s commercial register, reviews these matters carefully. Therefore, choose a provider that contractually guarantees these requirements.
The articles of association are notarized during the appointment with the notary. The notary also verifies the business address and then submits all documents to the Charlottenburg Local Court.
Here's what you'll need to provide if you use a virtual address:
Not all virtual office providers explicitly allow their services to be used as a company headquarters. This must be clarified before the company is incorporated—preferably in writing. Online company incorporations (especially for UGs) are now also possible, but the address requirements remain the same.
Note: Since 2024, tax authorities have been making greater use of AI-powered risk analyses to identify discrepancies in business addresses at an early stage.
The tax office recognizes a virtual business address—provided it is substantial. Here’s what that means in practice:
In the worst-case scenario, the tax office may revoke a VAT number if the address is merely a mailing address. This is rare—but the risk can be completely avoided by choosing the right provider.
Not every business address is suitable for a GmbH or UG. The following points are crucial:
Is the use of the company headquarters permitted in writing?
The provider must explicitly confirm that the address may be entered in the commercial register as the company’s registered office. This must be stated in the contract.
Has the load capacity been confirmed?
Not just promised on the website, but confirmed in the lease agreement or in writing by the provider.
Real infrastructure or just a mailbox?
For the tax office and the commercial register, you need a provider with a physical office and staff who can be reached in person—not just a paper-only service.
How quickly do you receive official mail?
You must not miss any deadlines set by the tax office or the court. The service provider must notify you immediately if such correspondence is received.
Location and reputation of the address
An address in a well-known Berlin business district comes across as more professional to customers, banks, and business partners than an obscure side street.
All five criteria met
Eligible for registration. Eligible for entry in the commercial register. Notarized. Located in Berlin's Prenzlauer Berg neighborhood.
76 Kollwitzstraße, 10435 Berlin Prenzlauer Berg
Since 2023, Teeberg has been offering business addresses specifically for startups—at Kollwitzstraße 76, in the heart of Prenzlauer Berg. The address is valid for legal service of process, notarization, and registration in the commercial register. Over 250 companies already use it as their official Berlin headquarters.
"Professional advice and excellent service when starting a business."
— Aiko K., Teeberg customer
"A reliable partner during our office move—everything went smoothly."
— Yannic B., Teeberg customer
| Package | Contains | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Postal address | Business address, confirmation of registered office, mail forwarding | Starting at €28/month |
| Virtual Office | All of the above + Postscan, digital forwarding, address for service | Starting at €63/month |
| All-Inclusive | All of the above + business phone, secretarial services | Starting at €239/month |
All prices are for annual payment. Monthly plans start at €35, €79, and €299. No setup fee; cancel anytime.
Can I incorporate a GmbH using a virtual address in Berlin?
Yes. A virtual address is acceptable for forming a GmbH if the provider confirms in writing that it can be used as the company’s registered office and the address is valid for service of process. You must bring this confirmation with you to the notary appointment. The Charlottenburg Local Court will then register the GmbH using this Berlin address.
What documents do I need from the address provider for the notary?
You’ll need a registered office agreement or written confirmation that you’re authorized to use the address as your company’s registered office. It should state that mail will be accepted there and that the address is valid for service of process. A reputable provider will issue this automatically after you book.
Is a virtual address also suitable for a holding company?
Generally speaking, yes—but the tax authorities take a closer look at holding companies because they often generate tax benefits through profit distributions. The address should reflect a genuine business presence: mail is actively received and processed; it should not be merely a PO box. Consult a tax advisor for guidance on this matter.
What happens if I want to change the address after the company is incorporated?
You can change your address in the commercial register at any time—but this requires another visit to a notary and the registration fee. That costs time and money. Choose a provider you can trust for the long term right from the start.
Does my name have to appear in the commercial register?
Yes, managing directors are listed by name in the commercial register—there’s no way around that. But there is something you can avoid: disclosing your home address. With a Berlin business address, your home address stays out of the publicly accessible register. Learn more: Using your home address as a business address
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