Step 1 — Check whether the job suits you
Working with your hands, close contact with people, often with older clients. If that appeals to you, the rest can be learned. Start with the free mini-course before spending anything.
Step 2 — Training
Cosmetic foot care can be learned online. We have three modules: A and B at €380 each, C at €280, the full bundle €890. Videos are in German with English subtitles and quizzes in English. The certificate comes from us — it documents the training you completed with us, it is not a state diploma.
Step 3 — Business registration (about €26, one appointment)
In Germany cosmetic foot care is a free trade: no Meisterbrief required. You go to the Gewerbeamt where you live, fill in the form, pay around €26 — and within days you have your Gewerbeschein. Important: your residence permit must allow self-employment (Erwerbstätigkeit gestattet). With a Duldung you need separate permission — clarify this with the Ausländerbehörde first.
Step 4 — Equipment (€250–800)
A basic set is enough to start: a device with dust extraction, instruments, disinfectant, consumables. You don't need an expensive chair or a shop — many start out visiting clients at home.
Step 5 — Your first clients
Your advantage: your own community. English-speaking clients in Germany often look for someone they can talk to in their own language. Start with people you know, local groups and word of mouth.
Step 6 — Legal basics
Business liability insurance (Betriebshaftpflicht) is effectively essential, roughly €100–200 per year. Ask your local Gesundheitsamt about hygiene requirements. Tax: with a small turnover the Kleinunternehmerregelung (§ 19 UStG) usually applies.
Ready to start?
Take a look at the modules, or start with the free 7-day mini-course.