Registering Your Address After Moving
You must register your primary residence within Germany within 14 days of moving in.
How to proceed
- 1
Schedule an appointment at the City Hall
Online appointment; in small communities, walk-ins are often accepted.
- 2
Obtain a landlord's confirmation
The landlord or owner must fill out the form.
- 3
Change your registration in person
With an ID card and a letter from your landlord.
Required documents
- Landlord's ConfirmationMandatoryOften forgotten
Mandatory document since 2015; to be completed by the landlord or property owner.
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
- • Failure to re-register within the 14-day period (fine of up to €1,000)
- • Did not bring the landlord's confirmation
Common reasons for rejection
- • Landlord's confirmation is missing
The essentials before applying
Who is eligible?
Any person who moves within Germany and establishes a new primary 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. 99.5 % (estimate)
Most common mistakes
- •Failure to re-register within the 14-day period (fine of up to €1,000)
- •Did not bring the landlord's confirmation
Common reasons for rejection
- •Landlord's confirmation is missing
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
Can I change my address online?▼
Online address changes are being piloted in some states, but are not yet available nationwide.