Registration in Germany

If you will be staying in Germany for longer than three months, you need to register your address (anmelden) at your local citizens’ office (Bürgeramt).

Meldepflicht (compulsory registration) requires everyone, whether German or international, to register at their home address. Registration authorities (Meldebehörde) register the persons residing in their area of jurisdiction in order to track population and places of residence.

Receiving your registration certificate (Anmeldebescheinigung) & tax ID

Your registration appointment (Anmeldung) is the most important step when relocating to Germany, as it provides you with your registration certificate (Anmeldebescheinigung). You will need this for all kinds of administrative tasks in the country, for instance applying for a residence permit, opening a bank account or finding a job.