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Opening a German branch? Get your commercial register extract translated

German notaries, courts, and banks require certified German translations of your foreign Handelsregisterauszug (commercial register extract). Our sworn translators deliver translations accepted by every Registergericht, notary, and financial institution in Germany.

Accepted across the entire EU
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Why does it need to be certified?

In Germany, official translations must be done by a vereidigter Übersetzer, a translator officially sworn in by a German court. When you register a branch office, form a GmbH & Co. KG, or open a business bank account, German authorities will only accept translations bearing the sworn translator's stamp and signature. An in-house or general translation will be rejected, potentially delaying your entire project by weeks. Our network of sworn translators ensures your Commercial Register extract translation meets every formal requirement.

From foreign extract to German-ready translation in 5 steps

1

Send your document

Upload or email a clear scan of your Commercial Register extract. A PDF from your national company registry works perfectly.

2

Receive your quote

Within a few hours, you'll receive a transparent fixed-price quote by email, based on your specific document.

3

Confirm with one click

Click the confirmation button in your quote email. Your sworn translator starts immediately, no account needed.

4

Receive your translation

Get your certified translation as a PDF by email, followed by the stamped original by post. Ready for notaries and authorities.

5

Pay at your convenience

Your invoice arrives with the translation. You have 14 days to pay by bank transfer, after you've reviewed everything.

When foreign companies need this translation

German bureaucracy is thorough. Whether you're establishing a presence in Germany or working with German partners, your company's legal existence must be proven through translated official documents. Here are the most common scenarios where you'll need a certified translation of your Commercial Register extract:

Opening a German branch office

Registering a Zweigniederlassung (branch) requires filing with the local Registergericht through a German notary.

  • Commercial Register extract of parent company
  • Articles of association
  • Proof of directors' authority

Forming a GmbH & Co. KG with foreign partner

When a foreign company joins as Komplementär or Kommanditist, the notary requires translated proof of corporate existence.

Opening a business bank account

German banks require up-to-date proof that your company exists and who can represent it.

  • Commercial Register extract (recent)
  • Constitutional documents
  • ID copies of authorized signatories

Participating in tenders or signing contracts

Public authorities and large German corporations often require proof of your company's legal status and signatory powers.

  • Commercial Register extract
  • Articles of association
  • Power of attorney if applicable

What we need from you

Getting your Commercial Register extract translated is straightforward. Here's your checklist:

  • A clear scan or PDF of your Commercial Register extract (the original stays with you)
  • The extract should be recent: most German notaries and courts accept documents not older than 3 to 6 months
  • Target language: German (for use in Germany) or English (for international transactions)
  • Information about your deadline if time-sensitive: notary appointment, bank meeting, or filing date

Good to know

Depending on your home country, you may also need an apostille or legalisation on your original document before translation. Countries that signed the Hague Convention use the apostille process. We can advise you on what's needed for your specific situation.

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Your questions answered

How long does a certified translation of a Commercial Register extract take?

Most translations are completed within 3 to 6 business days. For multi-page extracts or if you also need apostille services arranged, allow a few extra days. We recommend planning backwards from your notary appointment or bank deadline and contacting us early if timing is tight.

Do I need to send the original document, or is a scan enough?

A clear scan or PDF is sufficient for us to prepare your certified translation. You keep your original safe. However, when you attend your notary appointment or bank meeting, bring the original extract along, as the notary may want to compare it to the translation.

Will German authorities, notaries, and banks accept the translation?

Yes. Our translations are prepared exclusively by sworn translators (öffentlich bestellte und allgemein beeidigte Übersetzer) who are officially recognized by German courts. Every translation includes the translator's stamp, signature, and certification clause, exactly what the Registergericht, notaries, and banks require.

When do I pay for the translation?

You pay after you receive your translation. The invoice arrives together with your completed document. You then have 14 days to review the translation and pay by bank transfer. No upfront payment required.

How recent must the Commercial Register extract be?

German notaries and courts typically require extracts not older than 3 months, sometimes up to 6 months. For sensitive transactions like company formations or high-value contracts, they may insist on extracts issued within just a few weeks. Always confirm the specific requirements with your notary or bank before ordering your extract from your home registry.

Daniel Reyes
Written by
Daniel Reyes
Embassy Translations | January 2026
4.9 / 5 from 687 reviews
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