How do I verify my account as an incorporated partnership (GbR or Grundstücksgemeinschaften)?

This guide will help you verify your account if you operate as an incorporated partnership, specifically as a GbR (Gesellschaft bürgerlichen Rechts) or Grundstücksgemeinschaften in Germany. We'll walk you through each step of the verification process to ensure your account is properly validated.

Understanding Incorporated Partnerships

Important: Know the difference

An incorporated partnership is registered in a trade/commercial register (such as the Handelsregister in Germany) and is recognized as a separate legal entity. Examples include KG, OHG, and GmbH & Co. KG.

A GbR (Gesellschaft bürgerlichen Rechts) is a civil law partnership commonly used in Germany for joint property ownership or shared business operations. A Grundstücksgemeinschaften is a partnership formed specifically for joint ownership of real estate.

Rule of thumb: If your partnership has a Handelsregisternummer (registration number in the commercial register), you are an incorporated partnership and must onboard as an Organization.

Before You Start: Prepare Your Documents

Have the following documents ready before beginning the verification process:

• Constitutional document (partnership agreement or equivalent)
• ID documents of all legal representatives (passport, national ID card, or driver's license)
• Tax ID document (if applicable)
• Bank statement or proof of bank account ownership

Step 1: Log In and Start Verification

1. Log in to your Holidu account
2. Navigate to the Account tab
3. Click Validate to begin the verification process

Step 2: Enter Your Partnership Information

Primary Representative Details

Your information will be pre-filled as the primary representative signing with Holidu. You will need to complete Onfido identity verification as the primary contact for the partnership.

Partnership Details

Enter the following information about your incorporated partnership:

• Official partnership name (as registered)
• Registration number (Handelsregisternummer)
• Partnership address
• Type of partnership (GbR or Grundstücksgemeinschaften)

Partnership Members

Add all partners or co-owners of the incorporated partnership:

1. The primary representative is already listed
2. Click Add another partner for each additional member
3. For each partner, provide:
   • Entity type (Individual or Organization)
   • Ownership percentage (indicate if greater than 25%)
   • Control rights (if applicable)
   • Personal details and contact information
4. Repeat until all partners are added

Step 3: Verify Identity of Partnership Members

Each partner must complete identity verification. Choose one of two methods:

Instant Verification (Recommended)

1. Select the country of document issuance
2. Choose document type (passport, driving license, or ID card)
3. Scan the QR code with your phone
4. Take clear photos of both sides of the document
5. Submit for immediate verification

Manual Upload

1. Choose your document type
2. Upload high-quality photos of both sides of your document
3. Click Next to submit
4. Allow up to 72 hours for verification

Step 4: Upload Required Documents

Constitutional Document (Required)

For incorporated partnerships in Germany, accepted constitutional documents include:

• Gesellschaftsvertrag or GbR-Vertrag (partnership agreement signed by all partners)
• Gewerbe Anmeldung (GewA 1 or 2 form, all pages including signature page)
• Gewerbeschein (business registration certificate)
• Bescheinigung über die Erfassung als Steuerpflichtiger (tax registration certificate)
• Vereinbarung über eine Grundstücksgemeinschaft (agreement establishing shared property ownership)
• Statement from an accountant certifying the partnership exists
• Protokoll einer Gesellschafterversammlung or Gesellschafterbeschluss (signed partnership meeting minutes or resolution)

Important: Your constitutional document must include the names of all partners and clearly state the partnership's details, roles, responsibilities, and profit distributions. The document must be current and accurate.

Tax Document (If Required)

Upload a tax document showing the partnership's name and tax ID, issued by the German tax authority (Finanzamt).

Commercial Register Proof (For GbR with Handelsregisternummer)

If your GbR is registered in the commercial register, upload proof of registration showing your Handelsregisternummer.

Step 5: Verify Your Payout Details

Ensure the bank account you provide meets these requirements:

• The account holder name matches your registered partnership name, or
• It is a business account belonging to all partnership members

Choose a Verification Method

Instant Verification (Recommended)

1. Search and select your banking provider
2. Log into your online banking via Tink (our trusted verification partner)
3. Your banking login details are not stored and are used only for verification
4. Receive immediate confirmation

Manual Verification

1. Enter your bank details (IBAN and bank name)
2. Upload a recent bank statement (issued within the last 12 months)
3. Ensure the statement shows the partnership name, IBAN, and bank location
4. Click Next to submit
5. Allow up to 72 hours for verification

Step 6: Review and Submit

Before submitting:

• Double-check all partnership information for accuracy
• Verify all partner details are complete
• Ensure all documents are clearly visible and legible
• Confirm bank account information matches your partnership name
• Click Submit to complete verification

Step 7: Verification Status and Timeline

If you used Instant Verification: Your status updates immediately to In Review.

If you used Manual Upload: The process can take up to 72 hours.

Your Holidu account will display a verification status of In Review. Our specialized team reviews your information together with our payment partner Adyen Support.

Please allow up to two weeks for the complete verification process. Use the Holidu Assistant in your account to reach our team if you have questions or need support during this time.

Tips for a Smooth Verification Process

• Check Document Clarity: Ensure all documents are clear, well-lit, and legible. Blurry or poorly lit images may delay verification.
• Consistency is Key: Verify that names, addresses, and partnership details match exactly across all documents.
• Complete Information: Include all required fields and ensure no information is missing or incomplete.
• Monitor Your Email: Watch your inbox for updates, requests for additional information, or notification of verification completion.
• Accurate Bank Details: Confirm your bank account holder name matches your partnership registration or is a designated business account.

Common Questions

What if my GbR is not registered in the commercial register?

Many GbRs in Germany are not required to register in the commercial register, especially if they are formed for property ownership only. In this case, your constitutional document (partnership agreement) is your primary proof of the partnership's existence. Ensure this document is signed by all partners and clearly establishes the partnership structure.

Can I verify as an incorporated partnership if I have multiple properties?

Yes. During verification, you can list all partners and properties. Ensure your constitutional document and tax information reflect all property holdings and partnership arrangements.

What if one partner cannot complete identity verification?

All partners listed in the partnership must complete identity verification. If a partner is unable to provide a document or cannot complete the process, contact our support team via the Holidu Assistant. They may be able to provide alternative solutions or guidance specific to your situation.

How long does verification typically take?

If all documents are clear and information is accurate, verification usually takes 5-14 days. If we need to request additional information or clarification, the process may take longer. We recommend submitting all documents at once to avoid delays.

Need Help?

If you encounter any issues during verification or have questions about the process, use the Holidu Assistant in your account to reach our specialized support team. Our local teams understand the German requirements for incorporated partnerships and are here to help in your language.