We offer additional information on selected topics, giving you an overview of legal and tax issues as well as useful contacts for more detailed information.
Specific Issues

International topics
When it comes to doing business internationally, you need to check what tax and legal regulations apply. There are many factors to consider if your business operates beyond German borders.
Further information
Location and premises
Check legal prerequisites and building regulations for commercial use of premises in Munich to find an adequate location for your business. Learn about two important service points at the City’s Department of Urban Planning and Building Regulations.
Further information
Public tenders and contracts
Procurement law determines how the Federal Government, federal states, and regions must proceed when purchasing goods and services and awarding concessions. How can companies find the relevant information on tenders? How can you make myself known to public contracting authorities in Munich and Bavaria? Where can you get advice?
Further information
Residence permit
Citizens of non-EU or EFTA states must check whether their residence status or permit allows them to be self-employed or whether they need to apply for an additional permit at the Foreigners Office.
Further information
Sideline or part-time start-up
Self-employment while already employed, studying, caring for a family, retired or unemployed? A sideline business is subject to the same rules as a full-time start-up. There are particular issues to consider regarding employment law, social security, and tax requirements.
Further information
Women Entrepreneurship
The proportion of self-employed women in Germany has risen significantly over the last 15 years. Learn about advice and coaching for Munich’s female entrepreneurs, financing and support, networks and female empowerment for Munich’s female entrepreneurs and Munich’s female entrepreneurs as authentic role models.
Further informationEvents
Info sessions
FAQ
- Do you have a start-up and are you planning to settle in Munich?
- Do you live abroad and are planning to open a business in Munich?
Finding the right contact person
Point of Single Contact (PSC) of the City of Munich
The Point of Single Contact for corporate services covers a broad spectrum. Frequently asked questions include forms of opening a office in Munich, licenses from the Immigration Authority or specific requirements to exercise a profession. PSC will guide and advise you through the local administration. Consulting services are offered in German and English and are free of charge. Visit the PSC website
Telephone +49 89 233-22070 | E-Mail: psc@muenchen.de
CCI – Chamber of Commerce and Industry for Munich and Upper Bavaria (IHK für München und Oberbayern)
- Information on company law:
Ms Petra Busse | Telephone +49 89 5116 1313 | E-Mail: Busse@muenchen.ihk.de
Ms Lidya Pfeffer | Telephone +49 89 5116 1427 | E-Mail: Pfeffer@muenchen.ihk.de - Informationen on foreigners law:
Mr. Steffen Pollmer | Telephone +49 89 5116 1204 | E-Mail: Pollmer@muenchen.ihk.de - Information on employment law:
Ms Franziska Edlin | Telephone +49 89 5116 1490 | E-Mail: Edlin@muenchen.ihk.de
Invest in Bavaria – the Business Promotion Agency of the State of Bavaria
Invest in Bavaria supports companies from Germany and abroad and from a wide range of sectors. From location search to getting access to relevant partners and networks for your business. Their cross cultural teams provide you with all the important information, valuable contacts and customized support for your expansion project. The “Ois Easy” – a programme for start-ups from abroad is specifically designed for start-ups from abroad who want to open a new branch or a new office in Germany and establish themselves on the German market in the long term. Visit the website and find your contact person here.
Germany Trade and Invest – Investment Guide to Germany
Germany Trade & Invest (GTAI) is the economic development agency of the Federal Republic of Germany. With more than 50 offices in Germany and abroad, and its network of partners throughout the world, GTAI supports German companies setting up in foreign markets, promotes Germany as a business location and assists foreign companies setting up in Germany. For initial information on entry regulations, company set up, corporation taxation, employees and social security and incentive programs please see the GTAI “Investment Guide to Germany”.
Need help to find a tax adviser or lawyer?
We have listed several options to help you with your search.
Do you you own a valid residence permit for the purpose of self-employed activity in Germany?
More information on the residence permit