Business
Business registration
Before operating a trade business in Vienna, you must register it with the city authorities. A trade is defined as a self-employed, regular, and profit-oriented activity that is legal and not exempt from registration. You can register online, in person, or by mail.
How it works — step by step
- Confirm you meet the basic requirements: at least 18 years old, no disqualifying grounds (e.g., certain criminal convictions), and Austrian, EU/EEA, or Swiss citizenship (or valid residency permit for other nationalities)
- Use the online assistant tool on the Vienna city website to determine which documents are required for your specific trade type
- Scan all required documents
- Complete the online form with or without ID Austria, and submit your registration along with all required document copies
- Alternatively, submit in person or by mail by providing: name, social security number, address, date and place of birth, citizenship, precise trade designation (e.g., 'messenger service'), and business location/address
What you need
- Minimum age: 18 years
- No disqualifying grounds (e.g., certain criminal convictions, insolvency proceedings)
- Austrian, EU/EEA, or Swiss citizenship; other nationals require valid residency permit
- Precise trade designation (e.g., messenger service, plumber) and business address
- For regulated trades: proof of qualification or appointment of a trade-law managing director
- Additional documents vary by trade type – use the online assistant to determine exact requirements
Frequently asked questions
What activities are exempt from trade registration?
Exempt activities include agriculture and forestry, private tutoring, health professions, and others listed in § 2 of the Austrian Trade Regulations (Gewerbeordnung 1994). Use the online assistant to confirm whether your activity requires registration.
Do I need ID Austria to register?
No, you can submit the online form without ID Austria or EU-Login. However, using ID Austria enables immediate electronic entry into the GISA register.
What is the deadline to appeal a rejection decision?
You have 4 weeks to file a written appeal (Beschwerde) with the issuing authority. The deadline begins when you receive written notice or are notified orally of the decision.
Appointment & application
Go to service
This service leads to the official offering on wien.gv.at.