Gewerbe translates to “trade” or “business” in English. It refers to a self-employed commercial activity in Germany, encompassing a wide range of businesses from small craft shops to large manufacturing companies.
What is “Gewerbe”?
In Germany, a Gewerbe is any independent, sustainable activity undertaken with the intention of making a profit, excluding agriculture, forestry, liberal professions, and artistic or scientific activities. Registering a Gewerbe is a necessary step for most types of businesses, allowing them to operate legally within the country. This process, known as GewerbeanmeldungGewerbeanmeldung translates to "trade registration" in English. It is a mandatory step for individuals in Germany who wish to start... More, involves obtaining a trade license (GewerbescheinA Gewerbeschein, literally translated as "trade license" in English, is a document issued by the local trade office (Gewerbeamt) in... More) and registering for trade tax (GewerbesteuerThe term "Gewerbesteuer" translates to "trade tax" in English and refers to a tax levied on the income of businesses... More)[1][5][8][12][19].
More information about “Gewerbe”
The term Gewerbe covers a broad spectrum of activities, from individual craftsmen and retail shops to large industrial enterprises. It is distinguished from FreiberuflerFreiberufler, literally translated as "freelancer" in English, refers to self-employed professionals in Germany who offer specialized services based on their... More (freelance professions), which include jobs that require special qualifications, such as doctors, lawyers, and engineers, and do not require GewerbeanmeldungGewerbeanmeldung translates to "trade registration" in English. It is a mandatory step for individuals in Germany who wish to start... More. A key aspect of running a Gewerbe is the obligation to pay GewerbesteuerThe term "Gewerbesteuer" translates to "trade tax" in English and refers to a tax levied on the income of businesses... More, which is calculated based on the business’s profit[1][5][8][12][19].
Related to “Gewerbe”
Here are some additional terms that are related to Gewerbe:
- GewerbeanmeldungGewerbeanmeldung translates to "trade registration" in English. It is a mandatory step for individuals in Germany who wish to start... More: The act of registering a business at the local trade office, a necessary step for obtaining a GewerbescheinA Gewerbeschein, literally translated as "trade license" in English, is a document issued by the local trade office (Gewerbeamt) in... More and becoming officially recognized as a Gewerbe[1][5].
- GewerbescheinA Gewerbeschein, literally translated as "trade license" in English, is a document issued by the local trade office (Gewerbeamt) in... More: A trade license received upon successful GewerbeanmeldungGewerbeanmeldung translates to "trade registration" in English. It is a mandatory step for individuals in Germany who wish to start... More, signifying official permission to operate a Gewerbe[1][5].
- GewerbesteuerThe term "Gewerbesteuer" translates to "trade tax" in English and refers to a tax levied on the income of businesses... More: A tax levied on the profit of a Gewerbe, with rates varying depending on the municipality[3][14].
- FreiberuflerFreiberufler, literally translated as "freelancer" in English, refers to self-employed professionals in Germany who offer specialized services based on their... More: Professionals with special qualifications who sell their services and are not required to register a Gewerbe[17][19].
Understanding these terms is crucial for anyone looking to start or operate a business in Germany, as they form the foundation of the country’s commercial regulatory framework.