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Country Specific Onboarding Requirements

Depending on where you are located, there may be some specific requirements in order for us to work together. This is a non-exhaustive list of some of these requirements. 

Tax ID Requirements

During onboarding, we will ask for a tax identification number. You can find VAT identification numbers by country here, as well as information about National Identification Numbers here. You can also find detailed information about what ID requirements there are from each country and what documentation is needed here.

 

Countries Without a Tax ID

For the following countries that do not have tax IDs, we will ask for a photograph of an ID card (front and back) during onboarding.

  • Egypt
  • Myanmar
  • Bahrain
  • Emirates
  • Cambodia
  • Palestine
  • Saudi Arabia
  • Oman
  • Kuwait

Italy Based

If you are Italian-based, we need two different tax IDs:

  • The PIVA number (IT+11 digits)
  • Codice Fiscale.

The PIVA number from the European Union can be checked on the VIES website.

 

California Based 

  • Need to be registered as an LLC or LLS company (C-corporation or S-corporation).
  • Need to have an EIN number.
  • Will need to send us a W9, which will be collected during the onboarding process.

The State of California website provides guidelines on the process, which can be found here.

 

Spain Based

  • Every Spanish resident needs to be VAT registered.
  • Will need to collect an IRPF certificate, which will be collected during the onboarding process.
  • Will need to send us a Modelo 36 (or 37).

 

Greece Based

Must have their VAT numbers registered with the VIES website.

 

France Based

What are the legal structures available for freelancers in France?

There are several ways to register as a freelance business in France:

  • Micro-entreprise (Auto-entreprise): The simplest and most common form that merges personal and business assets. Freelancers under this status report their revenue in their personal income taxes. The annual revenue threshold is €77,700.
  • EURL (Entreprise Unipersonnelle à Responsabilité Limitée): This structure creates a separate legal entity from the owner, protecting personal assets. There is no revenue limit, but the owner must draft legal statutes, publish an official announcement, and provide capital. Tax options include personal income tax or corporate tax.
  • SASU (Société par Actions Simplifiée Unipersonnelle): Similar to EURL, it establishes a separate moral entity. Registration costs between €300 and €500 and requires the drafting of legal rules for business operations.
  • Portage Salarial: This system involves signing a contract with a portage (umbrella) company and becoming their employee. The freelancer finds clients independently, while the portage company handles invoices and payments, deducting a fee of 7–10% of the total monthly invoices.

Which legal structure is recommended for most freelancers?

For most freelancers, especially those starting out or working independently, the Micro-entreprise (Auto-entreprise) structure is often the best option due to its simplicity, lower cost, and minimal administrative requirements.

How do I register as a freelancer in France?

To establish yourself as a freelancer in France, you need to:

What information is needed during the registration process?

During registration, you will:

  • Choose your business type: selling third-party goods (commerçant), artisan, or service provider.
  • Declare your business’s main activity (activité principale exercée).
  • Provide a business address.
  • Select whether to pay taxes on monthly or quarterly earnings.

What should I do if I haven't received my business registration numbers?

If you have submitted the paperwork but haven't received your business numbers, you can still issue invoices. Include the text "SIRET en cours d’attribution" (SIRET pending) in place of your SIRET number.

What are the administrative requirements for micro-entrepreneurs in France?

Micro-entrepreneurs have minimal administrative requirements, which include:

  • Declaring revenue monthly or quarterly via the Urssaf portal.
  • Keeping records of invoices, receipts, and expenses.

Useful tools for managing these tasks include the free online software MyAE.fr (available in French) for accounting and Toggl for tracking working hours.

Will Welocalize help me with this process?

As a freelancer, you are an independent contractor, not an employee of Welocalize. This means you are responsible for registering yourself and handling your own taxes and employment contributions. Additionally, as an independent contractor, you are free to work for other companies in addition to working with us.

 

German Based

What are the legal structures available for freelancers in Germany?

In Germany, there are different legal forms for self-employment, each with specific characteristics and implications. There are four types of structures to choose from:

Freiberufler/Freelancer

Freiberufler are individuals practicing certain liberal professions such as artists, writers, doctors, lawyers, engineers, consultants, and others. These professions are characterized by offering specialized, intellectual, or artistic services. To be considered a Freiberufler, you must meet the following criteria:

  • Your work must be based on your own expertise and skills
  • Your work must not involve the production or sale of goods

Taxation: As a freiberufler, you are subject to income tax but typically exempt from commercial tax (Gewerbesteuer).

Registration: You need to register with the local tax office (Finanzamt) and do not need to register in the commercial register (Handelsregister).

VAT (Umsatzteuer): You might be subject to VAT, but specific exemptions apply to certain professions like doctors and artists.

 

Kleinunternehmer (Small Business Owner)

This status applies to both freelancers (Freiberufler) and business owners (Gewerbetreibende) with a small scale of operation. It is defined by the level of annual turnover.

Revenue Limits: For Kleinunternehmer, the annual turnover must not exceed €22,000 in the first year and is projected not to exceed €50,000 in the next year.

Taxation: Kleinunternehmer can opt out of charging VAT to their customers. This simplifies tax filings but also means they cannot reclaim VAT on business expenses.

Registration: The process is similar to Freiberufler, but they must indicate their Kleinunternehmer status to the tax office.

VAT: They are exempt from charging VAT if they choose the Kleinunternehmerregelung.

 

Einzelunternehmen (Sole Proprietorship)

This is a business owned and run by one individual. It covers a wider range of activities compared to Freiberufler and includes trades, retail, and other commercial activities. The business is not a separate legal entity from the owner, which means that the owner is personally liable for the debts and obligations of the business.

Taxation: Sole proprietors pay income tax and, if their annual revenue exceeds a certain threshold, they also pay commercial tax (Gewerbesteuer).

Registration: Mandatory registration in the Handelsregister if their operation exceeds a certain size or turnover, otherwise registration with the local trade office (Gewerbeamt) is required.

VAT: Subject to VAT, but can opt for Kleinunternehmer status if the conditions are met.

 

Eingetragene Kaufmann – e.K. (Registered Merchant)

The e.K., or eingetragener Kaufmann, refers to a legal status in Germany designated for individual entrepreneurs. It’s a commercial business form used by solo traders who seek to register their business in the commercial register, lending an element of formality and credibility to their operations.

Taxation: Owners of an e.K. are personally liable for the business’s financial obligations and are taxed on their income. The income from the e.K. is subject to personal income tax. Additionally, if the business activities are classified as a trade, they are also subject to trade tax.

Registration: Registration in the Handelsregister (commercial register) is a mandatory requirement for an e.K. This process involves fulfilling specific documentation and formalities, and the registration is made public, adding to the transparency of the business.

VAT: As with other business forms, an e.K. is subject to VAT (Umsatzsteuer) regulations. The standard VAT rate in Germany is 19%, with a reduced rate for certain goods and services. The e.K. must charge and remit VAT if their turnover exceeds the legal thresholds, similar to other business forms. Choosing to operate as an e.K. in Germany can be beneficial for solo entrepreneurs who want to demonstrate the seriousness and permanency of their business. However, this status also requires adherence to more stringent legal and financial regulations compared to simpler forms like Freiberufler or Kleinunternehmer.

Which legal structure is recommended for most freelancers?

For most freelancers in Germany, the recommended legal structure is to operate as a sole proprietor (Einzelunternehmer). This structure is straightforward and involves less bureaucratic effort compared to setting up a company like a GmbH (Gesellschaft mit beschränkter Haftung). As a sole proprietor, freelancers can work under their own name, are subject to personal income tax, and have fewer regulatory requirements.

Key points for freelancers operating as sole proprietors include:

  • Registering with the tax office (Finanzamt) to obtain a tax number.
  • Determining whether their work qualifies them as a freelancer (Freiberufler) or a tradesperson (Gewerbetreibender), as this affects their tax obligations and registration requirements.
  • Managing their own bookkeeping and invoicing.
  • Ensuring they have appropriate health insurance and, if applicable, contributing to pension insurance.

This structure offers simplicity and flexibility, making it suitable for most freelancers starting their business in Germany.

  1. Income Threshold and Taxes:
    • If a student's annual income from freelancing is below the basic tax-free allowance (Grundfreibetrag), which is around 10,908 euros for 2023, they won't be liable to pay income tax. However, they still need to file a tax return to report their income.
  2. Registration:
    • Students must still register with the tax office (Finanzamt) and obtain a tax number, regardless of their income level.
    • They need to determine whether they are classified as a freelancer (Freiberufler) or a tradesperson (Gewerbetreibender).
  3. Health Insurance:
    • Students are required to have health insurance. If they are under 25 and still covered by their parents' statutory health insurance, their freelancing activities might affect this coverage. It's advisable to check with the insurance provider.
    • If they are no longer covered under their parents' insurance, they will need to arrange their own health insurance.
  4. Social Security Contributions:
    • Students typically do not have to pay into the statutory pension insurance if their income is below a certain threshold. However, it’s important to verify specific obligations based on the nature of their freelance work.
  5. Part-Time Limitation:
    • It's important for students to ensure that their freelance activities do not interfere with their studies. Generally, as long as the freelance work does not exceed 20 hours per week during the semester, they maintain their student status for social security purposes.

How do I become a freelancer in Germany?

There are difference steps to take for a German person vs an expat that moved to Germany.

For a German person

  1. Prepare Your Application:
    1. Business Plan: Develop a detailed business plan outlining your freelance activity, target market, financial projections, and how you intend to sustain your business.
    2. Proof of Financial Stability: Show that you have sufficient funds to support yourself initially. This could be through bank statements, savings, or proof of income.
    3. Health Insurance: Arrange for health insurance coverage, which is mandatory in Germany.
    4. Professional Qualifications: Gather documentation proving your professional qualifications and experience relevant to your freelance work.
  2. Obtain Initial Visa:
    1. Visa Application Form: Complete the visa application form for a freelance visa (Freiberufler visa).
    2. Submit Application: Submit your application at the German embassy or consulate in your home country. The application should include all required documents, such as your business plan, financial proof, health insurance, professional qualifications, and a valid passport.
    3. Appointment: Schedule an appointment at the embassy or consulate for an interview and to submit your application in person.
  3. Wait for Approval:
    1. The processing time for the visa can vary, so be prepared for a wait. It can take several weeks to a few months for the visa to be processed.
  4. Travel to Germany:
    1. Once your visa is approved, you can travel to Germany. Make sure to carry all relevant documents with you.
  5. Register Your Address:
    1. Upon arrival in Germany, register your address at the local registration office (Einwohnermeldeamt or Bürgeramt). You will receive a registration certificate (Meldebescheinigung), which is needed for further steps.
  6. Residence Permit:
    1. Apply for a Residence Permit: Visit the local immigration office (Ausländerbehörde) to apply for a residence permit for the purpose of self-employment. Bring all necessary documents, including your visa, registration certificate, proof of financial stability, health insurance, and business plan.
    2. Biometric Data: Provide biometric data (photograph and fingerprints) as part of the residence permit application process.
  7. Register with the Tax Office (Finanzamt):
    1. Fragebogen zur steuerlichen Erfassung: Complete and submit the “Fragebogen zur steuerlichen Erfassung” (questionnaire for tax registration) to the tax office.
    2. Tax Number (Steuernummer): Obtain your tax number, which is necessary for invoicing and tax filings.
  8. Health Insurance:
    1. Ensure that your health insurance is in place. Provide proof of coverage if required by the immigration office.
  9. Set Up Your Business:
    1. Open a business bank account (optional but recommended).
    2. Set up a bookkeeping system to manage your finances.
    3. Register for VAT (if applicable) and obtain a VAT identification number (Umsatzsteuer-Identifikationsnummer).
  10. Compliance and Ongoing Obligations:
    1. Make quarterly advance tax payments (Vorauszahlungen) if required.
    2. File an annual income tax return (Einkommensteuererklärung) and, if applicable, an annual VAT return (Umsatzsteuererklärung).
    3. Join any relevant professional associations and obtain the necessary licenses for your profession.

For an Expat that moved to Germany

If a non-EU/EEA national is already in Germany and wishes to transition to freelancing, the process involves several steps. Here’s a guide based on the information from the provided links:

  1. Current Visa Status:
    1. Verify your current visa status and ensure that it allows for a change of purpose to freelancing. Not all visas permit a change of purpose, so this is an important first step.
  2. Prepare Required Documentation:
    1. Business Plan: Develop a detailed business plan outlining your freelance activity, target market, financial projections, and sustainability.
    2. Proof of Financial Stability: Show that you have sufficient funds to support yourself initially. This could be through bank statements, savings, or proof of income.
    3. Health Insurance: Ensure you have health insurance coverage, which is mandatory in Germany.
    4. Professional Qualifications: Gather documentation proving your professional qualifications and experience relevant to your freelance work.
  3. Register Your Address:
    1. If you haven’t already, register your current address at the local registration office (Einwohnermeldeamt or Bürgeramt) and obtain a registration certificate (Meldebescheinigung).
  4. Visit the Immigration Office (Ausländerbehörde):
    1. Make an Appointment: Schedule an appointment with the local immigration office (Ausländerbehörde). Some cities allow you to book appointments online.
    2. Application Form: Complete the application form for a residence permit for the purpose of self-employment or freelancing.
    3. Submit Documentation: Attend your appointment and submit all necessary documents, including:
      • Valid passport
      • Current visa/residence permit
      • Registration certificate (Meldebescheinigung)
      • Business plan
      • Proof of financial stability
      • Health insurance documentation
      • Proof of professional qualifications
    4. Biometric Data: Provide biometric data (photograph and fingerprints) as part of the residence permit application process.
    5. Wait for Approval:
      • The processing time for the residence permit can vary, so be prepared for a wait. It can take several weeks to a few months for the permit to be processed.
    6. Register with the Tax Office (Finanzamt):
      • Fragebogen zur steuerlichen Erfassung: Once your residence permit for freelancing is approved, complete and submit the “Fragebogen zur steuerlichen Erfassung” (questionnaire for tax registration) to the tax office.
      • Tax Number (Steuernummer): Obtain your tax number, which is necessary for invoicing and tax filings.
    7. Set Up Your Freelance Business: 
      • Open a business bank account (optional but recommended) to manage your business finances separately from personal finances.
      • Arrange for bookkeeping and accounting, either by using accounting software or hiring a tax advisor (Steuerberater).
      • Register for VAT (if applicable) and obtain a VAT identification number (Umsatzsteuer-Identifikationsnummer).
    8. Ongoing Compliance:
      • Make quarterly advance tax payments (Vorauszahlungen) if required by the tax office.
      • File an annual income tax return (Einkommensteuererklärung) and, if applicable, an annual VAT return (Umsatzsteuererklärung).
      • Join any relevant professional associations and obtain necessary licenses for your profession.
    9. Professional Networking and Resources:
      • Engage in professional networking opportunities and consider joining local freelancer groups or professional associations for support and resources.

How do I register as a freelancer in Germany?

  1. Determine Your Freelance Status:
    • First, ensure that your work qualifies as a freelance profession (Freiberufler) rather than a trade (Gewerbe). Freelance professions typically include roles such as writers, artists, translators, consultants, IT specialists, and more. If unsure, you can check with the local tax office (Finanzamt) or a tax advisor.
  2. Obtain a Residence Permit (if applicable):
    • Non-EU/EEA nationals must apply for a residence permit for the purpose of self-employment. This involves providing a detailed business plan, proof of financial stability, and health insurance. EU/EEA nationals do not need a visa but must register their residence.
  3. Register Your Address:
    • Register your address at the local registration office (Einwohnermeldeamt or Bürgeramt). You’ll receive a registration certificate (Meldebescheinigung), which is needed for further steps.
  4. Register with the Tax Office (Finanzamt):
    • Fill out the “Fragebogen zur steuerlichen Erfassung” (questionnaire for tax registration). This form is available online or at the tax office.
    • Submit the completed form to your local tax office to obtain a tax number (Steuernummer). You’ll need to provide information about your business activities, estimated income, and personal details.
  5. Health Insurance:
    • Arrange for health insurance. Health insurance is mandatory in Germany, and freelancers can choose between public (gesetzliche Krankenversicherung) and private (private Krankenversicherung) health insurance.
  6. Pension and Social Security:
    • Depending on your profession, you may need to register for pension insurance. Some professions require mandatory contributions to the statutory pension scheme (Deutsche Rentenversicherung), while others do not.
  7. Business Bank Account:
    • While not mandatory, it is advisable to open a separate business bank account to keep your personal and business finances separate.
  8. Register for VAT (if applicable):
    • If your annual turnover is expected to exceed €22,000, you must register for Value Added Tax (VAT) and obtain a VAT identification number (Umsatzsteuer-Identifikationsnummer). This allows you to charge VAT on your services and reclaim VAT on business expenses.
  9. Professional Associations and Licensing:
    • Depending on your profession, you may need to join a professional association or obtain specific licenses.
  10. Invoicing and Bookkeeping:
  11. Set up a system for invoicing and bookkeeping. Ensure that your invoices meet German legal requirements, including your tax number, VAT number (if applicable), and other essential details.
  12. Prepare for Tax Payments:
  13. Plan for quarterly advance tax payments (Vorauszahlungen) based on your estimated income. At the end of the year, you will file an annual tax return (Einkommensteuererklärung).

By following these steps, you can successfully register and start operating as a freelancer in Germany. It’s often beneficial to consult with a tax advisor (Steuerberater) to ensure compliance with all legal and tax requirements.

What information is needed during the registration process?

  1. Personal Information:
    • Full name
    • Date of birth
    • Place of birth
    • Nationality
    • Address (You need a registered address in Germany)
  2. Identification Documents:
    • Passport or ID card
    • Residence permit (if applicable, for non-EU/EEA nationals)
  3. Registration Certificate (Meldebescheinigung):
    • Proof of residence registration (received from the local registration office, Einwohnermeldeamt or Bürgeramt)
  4. Business Information:
    • Type of freelance activity (e.g., writer, IT consultant, artist)
    • Description of your freelance work
    • Estimated annual income from the freelance activity
    • Date when you started or plan to start your freelance activity
  5. Tax Information:
    • Completed “Fragebogen zur steuerlichen Erfassung” (questionnaire for tax registration), which includes:
      • Personal details
      • Details of your freelance activity
      • Bank account information for tax purposes
      • Estimated turnover and profits
    • Previous tax number (if you have one from prior business activities in Germany)
  6. Health Insurance:
    • Proof of health insurance coverage (either public or private)
  7. Financial Information:
    • Bank account information (It is advisable to have a separate business bank account)
  8. Professional Qualifications:
    • Proof of qualifications or certifications related to your freelance profession (if applicable)
  9. Business Plan (for non-EU/EEA nationals):
    • Detailed business plan outlining your business idea, target market, financial projections, and how you plan to sustain your business
  10. Professional Associations and Licenses:
    • Membership in professional associations (if required for your profession)
    • Specific licenses or permits (if required for your profession)
  11. VAT Information (if applicable):
    • If your expected turnover is above €22,000 annually, you will need to register for VAT (Umsatzsteuer) and obtain a VAT identification number (Umsatzsteuer-Identifikationsnummer)
  12. Pension Insurance Information:
    • Some freelance professions require contributions to the statutory pension scheme (Deutsche Rentenversicherung). You may need to provide details for registration if applicable.

What happens after submitting the registration form?

After submitting the registration form to become a freelancer in Germany, several key steps and processes follow, as outlined in the provided links:

  1. Receipt of Tax Number:
    • The local tax office (Finanzamt) will process your "Fragebogen zur steuerlichen Erfassung" (questionnaire for tax registration).
    • Once processed, you will receive your tax number (Steuernummer), which you need to include on all your invoices.
  2. VAT Registration (if applicable):
    • If you have registered for VAT (Umsatzsteuer), you will receive a VAT identification number (Umsatzsteuer-Identifikationsnummer).
    • You must include this VAT number on your invoices and ensure compliance with VAT regulations, such as collecting and remitting VAT on your services.
  3. Health Insurance Confirmation:
    • Ensure that you have your health insurance in place. If you opted for public health insurance, your insurance provider will confirm your coverage. For private health insurance, you will receive confirmation from your insurer.
  4. Pension Insurance Registration (if applicable):
    • If your freelance profession requires mandatory contributions to the statutory pension scheme (Deutsche Rentenversicherung), you will receive further instructions on registration and payment.
  5. Bookkeeping and Invoicing:
    • Set up a system for bookkeeping and invoicing. Maintain accurate records of your income and expenses to ensure compliance with tax regulations.
    • Make sure your invoices include all necessary details, such as your tax number and VAT number (if applicable).
  6. Quarterly Advance Tax Payments:
    • Based on your estimated income, the tax office may require you to make quarterly advance tax payments (Vorauszahlungen). These payments help to spread the tax burden throughout the year.
    • The tax office will inform you of the amounts and due dates for these payments.
  7. Annual Tax Return:
    • At the end of the fiscal year, you are required to file an annual tax return (Einkommensteuererklärung) detailing your income and expenses.
    • Depending on your income level and business structure, you may also need to file additional returns, such as the VAT return (Umsatzsteuererklärung).
  8. Ongoing Compliance:
    • Stay informed about your tax obligations, including deadlines for tax payments and filings.
    • Regularly update your financial records and keep receipts and documentation for all business-related transactions.
  9. Professional Associations and Networking:
    • Consider joining professional associations relevant to your field. These organizations can provide valuable resources, networking opportunities, and support.
  10. Adjustments and Updates:
    • If there are any significant changes to your business, such as changes in your estimated income, business address, or scope of work, inform the tax office promptly.
    • Keep your business information up to date to ensure ongoing compliance with regulations.

What happens if I haven't recieved my buisiness registration number?

If you haven't received your business registration numbers after submitting your registration form, you should follow these steps based on the information provided in the links:

  1. Contact the Tax Office (Finanzamt):
    • Reach out to the local tax office (Finanzamt) where you submitted your registration form. You can contact them via phone, email, or by visiting in person.
    • Provide them with your personal details and any reference numbers or documentation you have related to your registration.
  2. Check the Processing Time:
    • Be aware that the processing time for issuing a tax number (Steuernummer) and VAT identification number (Umsatzsteuer-Identifikationsnummer) can vary. It might take a few weeks, especially if there are high volumes of applications.
    • If it has been longer than the typical processing time, mention this when you contact the tax office.
  3. Verify Submission:
    • Ensure that your registration form was submitted correctly and all required information was provided. Missing or incorrect information can delay the process.
    • If you submitted the form online, check for any confirmation emails or messages that indicate receipt of your application.
  4. Follow Up Regularly:
    • If you do not receive a response after your initial inquiry, follow up regularly until you receive your business registration numbers.
    • Keep a record of all your communications with the tax office, including dates, names of the representatives you spoke with, and the details of the conversations.
  5. Seek Assistance:
    • If you are facing difficulties or language barriers, consider seeking assistance from a tax advisor (Steuerberater) or a business consultant. They can help you navigate the process and communicate with the tax office on your behalf.
    • Expat support services, such as those mentioned in the links, can also provide guidance and assistance.
  6. Review Official Correspondence:
    • Keep an eye on your mail and email for any official correspondence from the tax office. Sometimes, additional information or documentation may be requested before your registration numbers can be issued.

What are the administrative requirements for freelancers?

  1. Registration with the Tax Office (Finanzamt):
    • Complete and submit the “Fragebogen zur steuerlichen Erfassung” (questionnaire for tax registration).
    • Obtain a tax number (Steuernummer), which is essential for invoicing and tax filings.
  2. Health Insurance:
    • Arrange for mandatory health insurance coverage. Freelancers can choose between public health insurance (gesetzliche Krankenversicherung) and private health insurance (private Krankenversicherung).
  3. Social Security and Pension Contributions:
    • Depending on the profession, some freelancers may need to contribute to the statutory pension scheme (Deutsche Rentenversicherung).
    • Arrange for other social security contributions if applicable, such as for long-term care insurance (Pflegeversicherung).
  4. Value Added Tax (VAT) Registration:
    • If your annual turnover is expected to exceed €22,000, register for VAT and obtain a VAT identification number (Umsatzsteuer-Identifikationsnummer).
    • Collect and remit VAT on your services, and file regular VAT returns (Umsatzsteuervoranmeldung).
  5. Business Bank Account:
    • While not mandatory, it is advisable to open a separate business bank account to manage your business finances separately from personal finances.
  6. Invoicing and Bookkeeping:
    • Maintain accurate and compliant invoicing practices. Invoices should include essential details such as your tax number, VAT number (if applicable), and a detailed description of the services provided.
    • Keep detailed records of all income and expenses. Using accounting software can help manage bookkeeping and ensure compliance with tax regulations.
  7. Quarterly Advance Tax Payments:
    • Depending on your estimated income, you may be required to make quarterly advance tax payments (Vorauszahlungen). The tax office will inform you of the amounts and due dates.
  8. Annual Tax Return:
    • File an annual income tax return (Einkommensteuererklärung) detailing your freelance income and expenses. This return is typically due by July 31st of the following year.
    • If registered for VAT, also file an annual VAT return (Umsatzsteuererklärung).
  9. Professional Associations and Licenses:
    • Join any relevant professional associations or obtain specific licenses required for your profession.
  10. Networking and Continuing Education:
  11. Engage in networking opportunities and consider continuing education to stay updated on industry trends and regulations.
  12. Compliance with Other Regulations:
  13. Depending on the nature of your freelance work, you may need to comply with additional regulations, such as data protection laws (GDPR) if handling personal data.
  14. Adjustments and Updates:
    • Inform the tax office of any significant changes to your business, such as changes in your address, scope of work, or estimated income.
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