Cancel your registration of residence abroad
Deregistering your residence with the Citizens' Office if you are moving abroad permanently and no longer have a residence in Germany.
How to proceed
- 1
Canceling registration at the Department of Citizen Services
At the earliest, one week before moving out; at the latest, two weeks after moving out. Free of charge.
- 2
Received confirmation of cancellation
Important for tax purposes, contract terminations, and correspondence with government agencies.
- 3
Take care of follow-up matters
Health insurance, tax ID, bank accounts, canceling or changing your TV license.
Responsible authority
The authority of your main place of residence is responsible.Find authority →
Fees
Varies by case
Processing time
1 day
Official: max. 1 day
Online application
In person or by post
Common mistakes
- • Cancellation too early (cancellation is only possible one week before moving out)
- • Tax implications and health insurance have not been clarified in advance
The essentials before applying
Who is eligible?
Individuals who leave Germany permanently and do not retain a domestic residence.
Income limit
The limit varies by household and region – see the table at the responsible authority or in the application assistant.
Processing time
Nationwide: approx. 1 day
Success rate
approx. 99.0 % (estimate)
Most common mistakes
- •Cancellation too early (cancellation is only possible one week before moving out)
- •Tax implications and health insurance have not been clarified in advance
Common reasons for rejection
Alternatives
- Check related services in the application assistant
- Use social counselling before applying
If rejected
Read the decision carefully: often submitting missing documents or reapplying helps more than an objection.
Questions & Answers
Do I need to update my address when I'm abroad?▼
That depends on the destination country. In Germany, deregistration is mandatory. The process for re-registering abroad is governed by local regulations.