working as a freelancer in Germany

[SteveV]

Has anyone got a link to a one-stop-guide to operating as a freelancer in germany ?

is it similar to being a sole trader over here ?

[jkoder]

Has anyone got a link to a one-stop-guide to operating as a freelancer in germany ?

is it similar to being a sole trader over here ?

Did you check these out?

http://www.contractoruk.com/overseas_guides/004007.html

http://www.contractoruk.com/overseas_guides/004006.html

[AlfredJPruffock]

Has anyone got a link to a one-stop-guide to operating as a freelancer in germany ?

is it similar to being a sole trader over here ?

Unlike the UK , soul trading is not permitted in Germany, unless the contract with respect to the German blood laws was signed in blood.

[mailric]

Has anyone got a link to a one-stop-guide to operating as a freelancer in germany ?

is it similar to being a sole trader over here ?

Not personally, but the Brits have definately infiltrated germany's borders in the past

[The Albany Group]

Some general pointers. As Germany is one of the most vigilant tax authorities in Europe it is imperative that you declare all income in the country. It is possible to work employed or self employed ("freiberuffler"). If you take the former option, your employer must have an AUG (labour leasing) licence which pretty much rules out using your own UK registered Ltd company. The self employed route is quite popular - tax is payable from the outset on a quarterly basis and based on a projected annual earnings. 2 significant things to remember are that a freelancer in Germany (or his spouse) needs to be degree qualified and a residential address is required (as opposed to simply having a hotel). Feel free contact us directly if we can be of further assistance.

[chef]

Some general pointers. As Germany is one of the most vigilant tax authorities in Europe it is imperative that you declare all income in the country. It is possible to work employed or self employed ("freiberuffler"). If you take the former option, your employer must have an AUG (labour leasing) licence which pretty much rules out using your own UK registered Ltd company. The self employed route is quite popular - tax is payable from the outset on a quarterly basis and based on a projected annual earnings. 2 significant things to remember are that a freelancer in Germany (or his spouse) needs to be degree qualified and a residential address is required (as opposed to simply having a hotel). Feel free contact us directly if we can be of further assistance.

even for a short term (60 working day) contract where the total earned is below vat declaration levels?

[BlasterBates]

Chef I would really go and see a German accountant. They stamp on VAT fraud very hard, you will face prosecution if you don't pay when you should.

[The Albany Group]

I would say yes. Plenty will take a the risk (and its a very real one) that a short term contract permits this approach. 2 things in response; firstly, two weeks rather than two months might be a better yardstick, secondly what happens when the contract extends (e.g. clients asks for another month, then another and before you know it, etc etc). Dont forget so long as the registration application is made you have covered your obligations.

[YHB]

also make sure you are aware you will not be unlikely to be tax free as will need to pay in UK as per ir20

[chef]

I was under the impression that as im working for 60 working days, i'm in the country for 3 months minus weekends and I definately dont earn enough in that period to hit VAT levels all should be ok, i will ask my accountant