Anmeldung — Registration in Germany

What is Anmeldung?

Anmeldung (pronounced: an-mel-dung) is the mandatory registration of your place of residence in Germany. Without this document, you cannot:
- Open a bank account
- Sign an employment contract
- Apply for Kindergeld (child benefit)
- Register a car
- Obtain a tax number (Steuer-ID)

⚠️ IMPORTANT: You have only 14 days!

You must register within 14 days of moving into your residence. If you fail to do so, you face a fine of up to €1,000.

Step by Step

1. Find your Bürgeramt

Bürgeramt (citizen's office) is where you register. Each city has several. Find the nearest one:
- Hamburg: hamburg.de/buergeramt
- Berlin: berlin.de/buergeramt
- München: muenchen.de/buergeramt

2. Book an appointment online

In large cities, you MUST have an appointment. Without one, you may wait for hours or be turned away.

3. Prepare your documents

Wohnungsgeberbescheinigung — this is confirmation from the owner/landlord that you live at that address. Your landlord MUST provide it (it's your right!).

4. Go to the office

• Bring all documents
• Arrive 10 minutes early
• The official will enter your data into the system
• You will receive Meldebescheinigung (registration confirmation)

5. Keep your Meldebescheinigung!

You will need this document for:
- Opening a bank account
- Applying for Kindergeld
- Car registration
- Many other official matters

Cost

Anmeldung is FREE in most cities.

After Anmeldung

Within 2-3 weeks you will receive by mail:
- Steuer-ID (tax number) — 11 digits, needed for work
- Information from the tax office (Finanzamt)

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I register without a rental contract?
Yes, a Wohnungsgeberbescheinigung is sufficient. You can live with friends.

Do children also need to be registered?
Yes, every person living at the address must be registered.

I'm moving to another city. What should I do?
You need to do Anmeldung in the new city (and will automatically be deregistered from the old one).

Editorial hamboorg.city · As of: April 2026 · Carefully prepared, regularly updated. Content is informational and does not replace legal advice.