Your VAT identification number (USt-IdNr.) clearly identifies your undertaking. You will also need a VAT identification number if you pursue commercial or professional activities on a self-employed basis and wish to trade as an entrepreneur in goods and services within the European single market.

The Federal Central Tax Office will also issue a VAT identification number to legal entities which are not entrepreneurs or which are purchasing items not for their undertaking, if they require one for intra-Community purchases. In the case of tax group arrangements in accordance with § 2(2)(2) of the VAT Act (UStG), a separate VAT identification number will be issued for each legal entity on request.