Cancel Contracts Before Leaving Germany

Overview — which contracts to cancel?

Anyone leaving Germany should cancel all active contracts in time. Otherwise they continue and you pay from abroad. Here are the most important contracts and how to get rid of them.

1. Mobile phone contract

• Notice period: 1 month to end of month (since December 2021 for contracts after automatic renewal)
• Initial term: Often 24 months — during this time regular cancellation only at end of minimum term
• Sonderkündigungsrecht (Special termination right): Moving abroad, you have a special termination right if the provider cannot deliver service at your new location. Proof: deregistration certificate + new residence proof
• Number porting: If you want to keep your number, switch to prepaid

2. Internet / DSL / Cable

• Notice period: 1 month (after initial term) or at end of minimum term
• Sonderkündigungsrecht: Applies to relocations where provider doesn't service new location — moving abroad is clearly covered
• Return router — otherwise fees apply (50–100 €)

3. Fitness studio

• Notice period: Usually 1–3 months to contract end
• Sonderkündigungsrecht: For moves over 30 km from studio — moving abroad counts
• Proof: Deregistration certificate from registration office
• Caution: Some studios don't recognize the special right — then demand it in writing with deadline

4. Insurance

5. Electricity and gas

• Notice period: 2 weeks (basic supplier) to 1 month (other providers)
• Final reading: Take photo of meter reading on moving day and notify provider
• Final bill: Provide account details so provider can refund any overpayment

6. Broadcast fee (GEZ)

• 18.36 €/month — does not end automatically on deregistration!
• Deregistration required: Online at rundfunkbeitrag.de or by mail
• Proof: Deregistration certificate from registration office
• Refund: Overpaid fees will be refunded

7. Other contracts

• Magazines / Streaming: Netflix, Spotify, DAZN — monthly cancellation
• Amazon Prime: Monthly cancellation, annual subscription refunded proportionally
• Bank accounts: Close account after receiving all final bills (recommended to wait 3–6 months)

Sonderkündigungsrecht — the key to success

When relocating abroad, you have the right to special termination under § 314 BGB (extraordinary termination for good cause). Moving abroad is such a cause if the contract cannot be fulfilled at your new location.

Procedure:
1. Cancel in writing (registered mail with return receipt)
2. Attach deregistration certificate from registration office
3. Set deadline: 14 days for confirmation
4. If refused: contact consumer center or lawyer

Tip: Start 3 months before departure with cancellations — you'll have enough buffer for deadlines and inquiries.

Status: March 2026. All information without guarantee.