5 Key Steps to Start a Successful Business in Germany as a Foreigner in 2025

5 Key Steps to Start a Successful Business in Germany as a Foreigner in 2025

Germany is one of the most attractive countries for entrepreneurs and foreign investors. With its strong economy, stable legal system, and central location in Europe, it offers countless opportunities for those who want to build or expand their business.

At Herzig – Your Business in Germany, we guide international clients step by step through the process. Here are the 5 essential steps you need to follow in 2025 to start your journey.

1️⃣ Define Your Business Idea & Structure

Before anything else, clarify:

• What service or product will you offer?

• Who is your target market in Germany or Europe?

• Will you register as a sole proprietorship, UG (mini-GmbH), GmbH, or partnership?

💡 Tip: GmbH (limited liability company) is the most common and trusted form for foreign investors.

2️⃣ Prepare a Solid Business Plan

A business plan is crucial for:

• Visa applications

• Registering your company

• Opening a bank account

• Attracting partners or funding

Your plan should include:

• Market analysis

• Strategy

• Budget forecast

• Company goals

We help you create a professional plan tailored for German standards and expectations.

3️⃣ Choose the Right Location

Germany has 16 federal states and hundreds of business-friendly cities. Consider:

• Access to clients

• Talent availability

• Industry focus (e.g. Berlin for tech, Frankfurt for finance, Hamburg for logistics)

• Cost of rent and taxes

✅ We help you find an office, virtual address, or business center – even before your arrival.

4️⃣ Handle Legal & Administrative Requirements

To operate legally, you must:

• Register the business with local authorities (Gewerbeanmeldung)

• Get a tax number from the Finanzamt

• Open a business bank account

• Register for VAT (if needed)

• Apply for residency or work permit (if you’re non-EU)

Our legal partners and experts ensure everything is done correctly and quickly.

5️⃣ Build Your Network & Go Digital

Success in Germany also depends on:

• Local networking (chambers of commerce, events, etc.)

• Online presence (website, social media, SEO)

• Trust – Germans value professionalism, transparency, and quality

We offer branding, marketing, and digital services so your company looks trustworthy from day one.

🌍 Why Work With Herzig?

We support:

✔️ Business setup & company formation

✔️ Legal & tax support

✔️ Location & real estate services

✔️ Marketing, branding, and website creation

✔️ Arabic, English & German-speaking support

✔️ 100% tailored solutions for your business

🚀 Ready to Start Your Business in Germany?

Whether you’re starting from scratch or expanding your brand into the EU, Herzig is your trusted partner in Germany.

Contact us now and get your first consultation!