When registering for VAT in Germany, the tax office needs proof that your business is real, active, and legally set up. That’s why certain documents must be provided to Hellotax so we can submit your application.

Here’s a simple guide to what you need to provide — and why.

1. Company Establishment / Certificate of Incorporation

What it is:
The official document you received when your business was first created (e.g., Company Register extract).

Why it’s needed:
It proves your business exists as a legal entity.

How to get a new copy:
You can request an updated version from your local Company Register or Companies House (depending on your country). Many registers allow you to download extracts online for a small fee.

2. VAT Certificate

What it is:
A document from your home country confirming your company is registered for VAT (if already applicable).

Why it’s needed:
It shows your company is already in the VAT system in its home country — which supports your application for VAT in Germany.

How to get a new copy:
Request a fresh VAT certificate directly from your local tax authority. In many countries, this can be done via your government’s online tax portal.

3. Tax Identification Certificate (if applicable)

What it is:
A document showing your company’s tax ID number (different from VAT in some countries).

Why it’s needed:
The German tax office requires proof that your company pays taxes in its home country.

How to get a new copy:
Contact your home country’s tax authority for an updated certificate. Most provide these through their online tax portal or by written request.

4. Articles of Association

What it is:
The legal document that explains how your company is run and who the directors are.

Why it’s needed:
The German tax office must know who is legally responsible for the company.

How to get a new copy:
You can usually obtain this from your Company Register or the legal service that originally set up your company.

5. Company Bank Statement

What it is:
A recent company bank statement showing:

• Bank name and address
    
• Account name
    
• IBAN / SWIFT code
    

Why it’s needed:
It proves your company has an active business bank account. 

*It does not have to be the account you make vat payments from later! 

How to get a new copy:
Download an official PDF bank statement from your online banking, or request a stamped statement directly from your bank branch.

6. Director’s ID or Passport

What it is:
A valid, government-issued photo ID (passport or ID card) for the company director(s).

Why it’s needed:
The German tax office must confirm the identity of the people in charge of the company.

How to get a new copy:
Ensure your ID or passport is valid and not expired. If it is, apply for a renewal through your local government office.

7. Additional information you MAY be asked to supply 

• Previous VAT registration certificates (from other EU countries)
• Proof of warehouse/storage facility in Germany (address, lease
• Sales agreements or contracts demonstrating German business activity
• Import/export documentation
• Online marketplace integration proof (Amazon, eBay, etc.)

✅ Quick Checklist

• All documents must be recent (issued within the last 6 months).
• Documents must be clear and readable (PDF scans, not blurry photos).
    
• If translations are required, hellotax will inform you.
    

👉 By providing these documents quickly, you’ll help us ensure your VAT registration in Germany goes smoothly and without delays.