Event date: 1 August 2022; retrospective published on 17 October 2026. Digitalisation made online register access easier. For requests today, distinguish a free official self-service download from a separately purchased retrieval service.
What changed then?
The Federal Justice Ministry describes commercial-register document access as free from 1 August 2022. Berlin’s official service portal also identifies free online access. This concerns users retrieving documents themselves through official portals.
Why paid offers still exist
Our assessment: a private retrieval service is a separate service from portal access itself. Before using an offer, establish who operates it and what research or processing it includes. A private ordering site should not be confused with the register court.
Which document format is needed?
Section 9 HGB distinguishes register inspection from documents carrying particular official features. Ask the receiving institution which form it requires. A free download does not mean that additional official services are also free.
How to compare the options
Self-service access may suit a straightforward search. If the entity is uncertain or a specific document is needed, clarify the request first. Compare services after establishing the document requirement.
- Record the entity and register reference.
- Confirm the required format with the recipient.
- Check the scope and total price of a service.
What this retrospective does not imply
The historical change is not a new fee announcement from October 2026. The relevant considerations are the document form required today and the current conditions of the chosen channel. This article therefore gives no universal price for every kind of register document.