Ausländerbehörde — Appointment, Documents, Tips

What is Ausländerbehörde

Ausländerbehörde (ABH) is the foreigners' office. The competent office depends on your place of registration, so first complete your registration (Anmeldung). This is where you submit and extend your residence permit (Aufenthaltstitel), including the Blue Card and Niederlassungserlaubnis, and ultimately apply for citizenship after years of legal residence.

Termin — Book Early

In most cities, a Termin (appointment) is reserved online (often mandatory) or by phone. Offices can be fully booked weeks or even months in advance, so arrange your residence extension 6–8 weeks before your document expires. When booking online, you typically select the purpose of your visit.

Fiktionsbescheinigung

If you submitted your application before expiration but received an appointment later, the office issues a Fiktionsbescheinigung — a certificate of temporary residence (usually valid for 2–6 months). With this, you can legally remain in Germany until the decision is made.

Documents for Your Visit

Bring: valid passport, biometric photo, employment contract or proof of studies, rental agreement, and proof of health insurance (Krankenversicherungsnachweis). Complete documentation at once = fewer follow-up visits.