How can I enter a virtual address on Google MyBusiness without being a registered office?

What is a virtual address and why is it used?

One virtual address is a business address that companies use without actually having a physical office on site. This solution is particularly attractive for sole traders, start-ups or international companies that want to be present in Germany but do not need a branch office. The advantages are obvious:

• Professional external image
• More trust from German business partners
• Receipt of mail and parcels
• Local telephone number
• Possibility to open a German bank account

Requirements for a Google MyBusiness entry

Google MyBusiness (today: Google Business Profile) allows companies to be visible on Google Maps and in Google Search with their address, opening hours and other information. However, there are clear guidelines:

• The registered address must be a real, permanently occupied company location
• Virtual offices or letterbox companies are actually excluded according to Google guidelines
• Verification must be carried out on site by postcard

This means: Google does not want to allow mailbox-only addresses or shared officesif no real business activity is carried out there.

Google guidelines and their challenges for virtual offices

According to Google, a Google MyBusiness entry may only be created if customers are actually received at the address or employees are regularly on site. The use of pure mailbox or virtual addresses officially contradicts these rules.

Google is increasingly testing:

• Photos of the location (facade, office, company sign)
• Opening hours and accessibility
• Customer contact on site

An entry can be deleted or blocked if Google determines that it is only a bogus address.

Are there any exceptions or alternative options?

If you still want to be visible with a virtual address, there are a few possibilities and options:

1. utilisation as Service Area Business (SAB)

• Enter your company as a "Service Area Business" - the address in the profile will be displayed. not publicly displayed
• You specify the radius in which you serve customers
• Advantage: You can still be found on Google Maps without an address being published

2. proof of genuine business activity

• If your virtual office provider offers on-site space, you can use a meeting room or office for regular client appointments, for example
• Company sign, photos of the office and real opening hours increase the chances of fulfilling Google guidelines
• The address is then officially considered a permanent establishment

3. Google MyBusiness with "Office on request"

• Some providers offer the option of temporarily renting an office or workspace in order to maintain the appearance of a real presence
• A postcard can be received for verification purposes
• Important: The location must be used regularly at least on an hourly basis

4. cooperation with local partners

• Alternatively, a real local address can be used by partner companies, e.g. a coworking space with its own reception and fixed contact persons
• It is important that customers can actually be received at the address

Important notes and risks

Google is checking entries more and more closely:

• Frequent checks by Google (e.g. calls or visits)
• Notifications by competitors can lead to a review
• Incorrect information can lead to permanent blocking

There are numerous providers who promise to enable virtual addresses for Google MyBusiness - but not all of them are permanently successful or legally compliant.

Conclusion: Is a virtual address for Google MyBusiness worthwhile?

A virtual address has many advantages - but for a Google MyBusiness entry it is only officially permitted if a real business activity actually takes place at the address. If you still want to be listed, you should use solutions such as "Service Area Business" or flexible office solutions.

Your digital location advantage - How to maintain a local presence!