Anmeldung: Register Your Address

Mandatory registration within 14 days of moving in. Without it you can't open a bank account or get a Steuer-ID.

✓ Verified: 15/08/2026

WHAT TO DO

Book an appointment at the Bürgeramt for your new address — within 14 days of moving in, or you risk a fine of up to 1,000 € under § 54 BMG

Bring your passport and Wohnungsgeberbestätigung (landlord confirmation)
Attend your appointment and collect the Meldebescheinigung

AUTHORITY

Bürgeramt / Bürgerbüro

Municipal authority

Every town runs its own Bürgeramt. Enter your postcode and we will show yours.

Enter 5 digits — we show your local office

Where to go in your city →

DOCUMENTS 2

Passport or Personalausweis (ID card)
Passport or national ID card

Identity document
Wohnungsgeberbestätigung (landlord's move-in confirmation)
Landlord's confirmation of move-in (§19 BMG form)

Housing

What is it and when to do it?

The Anmeldung is the official registration of your place of residence in Germany. Under the Bundesmeldegesetz you must register within 14 days of moving into a new apartment. The Meldebescheinigung you receive is the gateway to opening a bank account, getting a Steuer-ID, and starting formal employment.

Where and how much does it cost?

The Anmeldung is free. Go to the Bürgeramt responsible for your new address. In large cities, book your appointment 2–3 weeks ahead — slots fill up fast, especially at the start of the month.

Common mistakes

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Generate your Wohnungsgeberbestätigung →

Fill in the fields — get a ready § 19 BMG PDF and hand it to your landlord to sign. Your data never leaves the browser

› Details and tips

👨🏻‍💻

Max recommends:

In Munich there was no free slot for six weeks. I screenshotted every booking attempt with its date and put the whole set on the desk at the appointment — not a word about being late, no fine. Wait passively and you arrive with no evidence.

👩🏼‍💼

Lea recommends:

Turned up without the Wohnungsgeberbestätigung and was turned away on the spot. Request the form from your landlord before moving in — under § 19 BMG they are legally obliged to provide it.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What happens if I miss the 14-day deadline? ▾

A fine of up to €1,000 under § 54 BMG. If no appointment is available, take a screenshot of your booking attempt with the date — this serves as proof that you tried in good faith.

Do I need an appointment or can I just walk in? ▾

In large cities (Berlin, Munich, Hamburg) an appointment is mandatory. In smaller towns walk-ins are sometimes accepted — check your local Bürgeramt's website.

Where do I get the Wohnungsgeberbestätigung? ▾

It's a form your landlord fills in to confirm your move-in. Under § 19 BMG your landlord is legally required to provide it on request. Most landlords know the form — just ask by email.

Can I register before the apartment is ready? ▾

No. The Anmeldung requires an actual residential address and the Wohnungsgeberbestätigung. Temporary accommodation (hotel, Airbnb) does not qualify.