Overview

Company formation and registration in Germany typically involves preparing formation documents, notarization where required, and registering the entity with the commercial register via the appropriate process. The details depend on the legal form, but the Handelsregister entry is the point where key facts become publicly recorded.

Role of notarization and filings

For many corporate forms, filings to the commercial register are made through a notary. The notary’s role is procedural and formal: verifying documents, making electronic filings, and ensuring required information is submitted. Some changes after incorporation also require notarized resolutions and filings.

What becomes visible in the register

Once the entity is registered, the entry typically records the registered name, seat, register number, and representation rules. Subsequent filings can add entries about changes to management, amendments to articles, transfer of seat, liquidation, or other registerable events.

Typical incorporation steps (high level)

• Choose legal form and draft formation documents
• Notarize where required and submit filings to the register court
• Register entry is created/updated by the responsible court
• Obtain supporting documentation (extracts) for banks, suppliers, and contracts

Common change filings after incorporation

• Change of managing directors / representation rules
• Change of registered seat
• Amendments to articles of association
• Liquidation and termination procedures (where applicable)

Related pages

• Notary role — Why notaries are commonly involved in filings.
• Changes & filings — Events that typically require a register update.
• Articles of association — What the formation document usually covers.