Renting in Germany as a foreigner: documents and rights
Which documents you need to rent a flat in Germany, and what rights you have as a tenant.
You do not need German citizenship or a permanent residence permit to rent in Germany. You do need paperwork such as a SCHUFA-Auskunft (credit report) and proof of income. If you have no SCHUFA yet, offer something else and have the lease explained before you sign.
What you need to rent a flat in Germany as a foreigner
The hurdle is usually the paperwork, not the law. Get these things ready.
- 1
A SCHUFA-Auskunft or a substitute
If you have no SCHUFA yet, offer bank statements or a Bürgschaft (guarantee) instead.
- 2
Proof of income
An employment contract or a letter from your employer shows that you can pay the rent.
- 3
Understand the lease before you sign
Ask someone to explain the lease to you before you sign it.
- 4
The Kaution has a limit
The Kaution (deposit) can be at most three Nettokaltmieten (three months' rent without service charges).
- 5
Document the flat before you move in
Photograph every room and every existing mark. Download the BildProof app, scan the entire flat in minutes and get a complete record of its condition. Keep it safe.
- 6
Register your address
Register at the Bürgeramt (citizens' office) within 14 days of moving in.
Why this matters
Under § 19 AGG, a landlord is not allowed to treat you worse because of your ethnic origin when letting a home. And under § 551 BGB, the Kaution can be at most three Nettokaltmieten, for you just as for everyone else.
General information, not legal advice.
Frequently asked questions
Can I rent a flat in Germany without a SCHUFA?
Yes, you can rent without a SCHUFA-Auskunft. It is common, but the law does not require it. Offer bank statements, an employment contract, a Bürgschaft or a larger Kaution within the legal limit instead.
Do I have to register my address after moving in?
Yes, you must register at the Bürgeramt within 14 days of moving in. You need the Wohnungsgeberbestätigung (landlord's confirmation) from your landlord for this (§§ 17, 19 BMG). Registering late can cost a fine of up to 1,000 euros (§ 54 BMG).
How high can the Kaution be for a foreign tenant?
The Kaution can be at most three Nettokaltmieten (§ 551 BGB). That limit applies to you exactly as it does to any other tenant.
Also in this topic: Einbauküche from the previous tenant: Ablöse and move-outPets in a German rental: your rights as a tenantKleinreparaturklausel: when is it valid?Maklerprovision as a tenant: when you have to payAll guides: Lease
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