Resident abroad - can I still have a business address in Berlin?
Do you live abroad, work digitally - but still want to provide a professional business address in Berlin? In this article, you'll find out whether and how this is legally possible, what you need to bear in mind and why a virtual address could be just the solution for you.
Table of contents
- 1. why have a business address in Berlin despite living abroad?
- 2. is a business address in Germany permitted without a place of residence?
- 3. what are the legal requirements?
- 4 When does a virtual address in Berlin make sense?
- 5 Conclusion: Location advantage without permanent residence
1. why have a business address in Berlin despite living abroad?
More and more self-employed people, freelancers and founders are living abroad - whether for tax reasons, because they are traveling or simply working remotely. Nevertheless, many want to:
- retain a German representative office
- appear reputable to customers
- appear legally secure in the imprint
A business address in Berlin looks particularly professional - especially with international customers or German authorities.
2. is a business address in Germany permitted without a place of residence?
Yes, in principle you can have a business address here even if you are not resident in Germany - as long as you meet certain requirements.
✅ What is allowed?
- You are allowed to run your company in Germany, even if you live abroad
- However, you need a summonable business address - e.g. for the tax office or official mail
🚫 What is not allowed?
- A mere PO box address or letterbox company without substance
- An address at which you cannot be reached (legally vulnerable!)
3. what are the legal requirements?
If you want to use a business address in Berlin, it must meet the following criteria:
- Mail reception must be guaranteed
- It must be possible to assign the address to you or your company
- In the case of corporations (GmbH, UG), it must be entered in the commercial register
📌 Important:
A purely virtual residence or fantasy address is not sufficient. Authorities and notaries only accept verifiable, summonable addresses.
4 When does a virtual address in Berlin make sense?
A virtual business address is the ideal solution for the self-employed, start-ups or expats. It offers:
- Professional public image: Berlin address for website, imprint & customer contact
- Legal certainty: For the tax office, trade office & authorities
- Digital administration: mail scanning service & forwarding worldwide
Example: Teeberg Virtual Office
With Teeberg's virtual office offer, you get a summonable address in Berlin - completely digitally bookable, including daily mail scan and legally secure usage contract. Ideal for location-independent entrepreneurs!
5 Conclusion: Location advantage without permanent residence
You can have a reputable business address in Berlin even if you don't live in Germany - as long as the address can be used as a summons and can receive mail. A virtual business address is the perfect combination of flexibility and professionalism, especially for location-independent founders.
Get started now - with your company location in Berlin, even if you're sitting on the beach.
👉 Secure a virtual business address in Berlin now