Wirtschafts-Service-Portal

Trades NRW

If you want to set up and run a trade in a trade in North Rhine-Westphalia, different requirements and applications are important for you – depending on the trade – (for example, for the establishment of a restaurant or a craft business).

In the following overview you will find important information on applications, definitions and regulations for the establishment of companies or self-employment in trades in North Rhine-Westphalia.

restaurant

You would like to open or take over a restaurant and need details on applications and specifications?

Trades NRW: Information and Tips for Reasoners

The Wirtschafts-Service-Portal.NRW provides an overview and important information about starting a trade or starting a self-employment in a trade. Find out more about the competent chambers, the costs and the individual specifications of the different trades in North Rhine-Westphalia.

Gewerk restaurant

If you want to open a restaurant, bar or snack bar in North Rhine-Westphalia, you must meet certain requirements. This includes, among other things, applying for a restaurant permit at the responsible public order office. This permission is only granted if you meet certain requirements, such as a hygienic and proper furnishing of the premises as well as expert staff. In addition, you must apply for a separate permit to serve alcoholic beverages. Further information can be found on the website of the NRW Restaurant Association or on the WSP.NRW on the subject of restaurants.

To the NRW Restaurant Association

Craft roll

Many trades in North Rhine-Westphalia require an entry in the trade register. The handicrafts register is a public register in which handicraft enterprises that meet certain requirements are registered. This includes, among other things, a completed craftsmanship education or appropriate professional experience. If you want to pursue an activity that is registered in the craft roll, you must register there. Further information can be obtained from the competent Chamber of Trades and Crafts or from the WSP.NRW on the subject of the role of trades and crafts.

Travel business card

If you want to operate a business that does not have a fixed location, but operates in markets or public places, for example, you will need a travel business card. This card entitles you to do business in different locations. To apply for the travel business card, you need, among other things, a business registration, an extract from the central business register and a certificate of safety from the tax office. You can find more information about the travel business card on the WSP.NRW.

Tips and hints

The information on founding a company in trades in North Rhine-Westphalia is relevant for all founders who plan a company in a craft or gastronomic trade.
If you want to start a company in a trade in North Rhine-Westphalia, you should inform yourself at an early stage about the requirements and requirements of the respective trade. First, consider which legal form is best for your business and what permits you need. Find out more about the tax and legal framework that is relevant to your trade. Make sure that you submit all necessary documents on time and schedule sufficient time for processing.

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About the portal

The WSP.NRW is the central platform in NRW to digitally and easily handle over 80 online services for traders, liberal professions, cross-border services and the recognition of foreign professional qualifications.

For companies
Online applications

© 2025 Ministry of Economic Affairs, Industry, Climate Protection and Energy of the State of North Rhine-Westphalia.

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