Do you find yourself dreaming of living in Germany? Are you about to make the move, or maybe you’ve just arrived? Already living here, but changing your address? If so, you’ll probably be wondering about the process of residence registration or Anmeldung in Germany.
Once you land in Germany, one of the first things you need to do is register your address. If you’re feeling confused, don’t worry – this article will cover everything you need to know to get started, including:
What is Anmeldung?
Anmeldung in Germany is simply the process of registering your residence. It is a requirement by law, acts as a key document to getting started, unlocks crucial services you’ll need throughout your time in the country, and is, overall, an integral part of becoming a German citizen.
It’s easy to get to grips with, and quick to complete. Once you’re done, you won’t need to worry about it again until you decide to move house!
Who needs to register?
According to the German Federal Ministry of the Interior and Community, anyone who moves to Germany with the intention of staying longer than three months must register. This includes:
- People moving to Germany for work
- Students studying in Germany
- Expats who are new to Germany
Why is Anmeldung in Germany necessary?
Aside from Anmeldung being a legal requirement, your proof of registration will come in handy time and time again while you’re living in Germany.
For example, you’ll need it when:
- Applying for a job
- Opening a bank account
- Applying for insurance
- Doing your taxes
When Should I Complete My Registration?
It is required by law that you complete your registration within fourteen days of moving to your new address in Germany.
Remember that this is true for both residents and visitors who are planning on staying in Germany for longer than three months.
How long does it take to register in Germany?
It might sound complicated, but the registration process is actually quick, easy, and straightforward, taking only 10-15 minutes.
Where can I register in Germany?
Firstly, you’ll need to book an appointment at your local registration office. You can do this in person or over the phone but online is definitely the easiest, especially if your German is limited. Try to book as much in advance as possible, just to avoid any waiting time down the line.
Depending on where you are, the local authorities might call the registration office something different. For example, in Berlin and Frankfurt, it’s referred to as a ‘Bürgeramt’ while in Munich it’s called a ‘Bürgerbüro’, and in other places, it might be ‘Einwohnermeldeamt’.
Wherever you are, though, you’ll find plenty – all that matters is that the office is in the same city as your new residence.
What documents are needed for Anmeldung in Germany?
To register your new residence in Germany, you will need the following documents:
- A valid ID card. This can be a passport or a passport substitute – it just needs to prove your identity.
- Proof of address. This can be anything that shows you live at the address you’re registering for, such as a utility bill or a rental contract, aka ‘Mietvertrag’.
- Confirmation of residence. This is known as ‘Wohnungsgeberbestätigung’, an official form issued by landlords to tenants within Germany. When renting an apartment with Wunderflats, this couldn’t be easier.
- Completed Anmeldung registration form. This contains all the details needed for your registration, which you can download from the local registration office’s website.
- Temporary visa. This applies to non-EU citizens only.
During the appointment, you will also be issued with a registration certificate, or ‘Anmeldebestätigung’ or ‘Meldebescheinigung’, which confirms your official address.
And that’s everything you’ll need to know! It might sound tricky, but once you get started, it’ll be done before you know it. All that’s left to do then is settle into your new life in Germany.
If you’re looking to make the move, get started with Wunderflats, the easiest mid-term rental solution for anyone wanting to live, work, or study in Germany, with fully furnished rental housing just one click away.
