Registering after a move: deadline and documents
How long you have to do your Anmeldung (residence registration), and what to bring to the appointment.
You must register at the Bürgeramt (citizens' office) within 14 days of moving in. Bring your ID and the Wohnungsgeberbestätigung, your landlord's written confirmation that you have moved in.
What you need to register, and by when
The registration itself is quick. Time usually only gets tight when a document is missing or you have no appointment.
- 1
You have 14 days
The 14 days start on the day you actually move in, not on the day your lease starts.
- 2
Get the Wohnungsgeberbestätigung
This is your landlord's written confirmation that you have moved in (§ 19 BMG). Without it, the Bürgeramt can refuse your registration.
- 3
Book the appointment early
Book your Bürgeramt appointment early, because appointments are often booked out for weeks.
- 4
Fill in the registration form
Bring the completed form for registering at your new address.
- 5
Bring your ID
Take your ID card or passport to the Bürgeramt appointment.
- 6
Register the new address only
If you move within Germany, you do not need to de-register at your old address.
Why this matters
Under § 17 Abs. 1 BMG, you must register within two weeks of moving in. If you miss the deadline, you risk a fine of up to 1,000 euros (§ 54 BMG).
General information, not legal advice.
Frequently asked questions
What is a Wohnungsgeberbestätigung and who issues it?
The Wohnungsgeberbestätigung is your landlord's written confirmation that you have moved in. The landlord must issue it within two weeks (§ 19 BMG). Without it, the Bürgeramt can refuse your registration.
What if my landlord does not give me the Wohnungsgeberbestätigung?
A landlord who does not issue the Wohnungsgeberbestätigung commits an offence and risks a fine of up to 1,000 euros (§ 54 BMG). You can tell the Meldebehörde (registration office), which will then follow up with the landlord.
Do I have to de-register when I move within Germany?
No, you do not have to de-register when you move within Germany. You only register at your new address.
Also in this topic: Eigenbedarfskündigung: what tenants can doEnding your lease as a tenant in Germany: notice and formLeaving your lease early in Germany: NachmieterAll guides: More
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