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ISBN by country

How to get an ISBN in Germany

How to get an ISBN in Germany: ISBNs are issued by MVB (ISBN-Agentur für die Bundesrepublik Deutschland) (paid). Steps, costs, barcodes and how many you need.

Step by step

  1. Decide the formats you will publish (paperback, hardcover, ebook, audiobook) — each needs its own ISBN.
  2. Create an account with MVB (ISBN-Agentur für die Bundesrepublik Deutschland) and register your publisher or imprint name.
  3. Buy your ISBNs — blocks of ten cost much less per number than single ISBNs.
  4. Assign each ISBN to a title and format, and enter the metadata (title, contributors, format, publication date, price).
  5. Print the ISBN on the copyright page and as an EAN-13 barcode on the back cover.
  6. Fulfil legal deposit with your national library if required.

ISBN prefixes used in this country

Tools: ISBN converter · ISBN barcode generator · ISBN guide.

Frequently asked questions

Are ISBNs free in Germany?
No — MVB (ISBN-Agentur für die Bundesrepublik Deutschland): paid.
Who issues ISBNs in Germany?
MVB (ISBN-Agentur für die Bundesrepublik Deutschland). Buy only from the official agency or its authorised resellers.