The short answer
After you arrive in Germany, you normally do two official things in your first weeks: register your address (Anmeldung) at the local registration office, usually within two weeks of moving in, and apply for your residence permit at the local foreigners' authority before your entry visa expires. The details and the booking systems differ by city, so check your city's official pages.
Step 1: Anmeldung
What it is. Registering where you live with the local registration office (often called the Bürgeramt or Einwohnermeldeamt).
What you usually need.
- Your passport and visa
- The registration form, which many cities provide online
- A landlord's confirmation of residence (Wohnungsgeberbestätigung), which your landlord or accommodation provider issues
- Your tenancy or accommodation contract, if the office asks
What you get. A registration certificate (Meldebescheinigung). Keep it safe, because you will need it for many other steps.
Tip. Appointments can be hard to get in big cities. Start looking for an appointment as soon as you know your address.
Step 2: Enrolment at your university
You enrol (immatriculate) at your university, usually in the first weeks. Your university tells you which documents it needs, including proof of health insurance and your admission letter. Many universities also ask for the registration certificate or your address.
Step 3: Residence permit
What it is. The permit that allows you to stay in Germany for your studies after your entry visa.
What you usually need. Your passport, biometric photos, your enrolment certificate, proof of health insurance, proof of financing, your registration certificate and the application form. Your city's foreigners' authority lists the exact documents.
Timing. Book your appointment early. Do not wait until your visa is about to expire.
Other things you may notice
- Bank account. Many banks ask for your registration certificate.
- Broadcasting contribution (Rundfunkbeitrag). Households in Germany are generally required to pay a broadcasting contribution. You may receive a letter about it. Read it carefully, and ask your student services whether you can apply for an exemption.
- Semester ticket. Many universities include local public transport in the semester contribution.
Checklist
- To do: Ask your landlord for the Wohnungsgeberbestätigung
- To do: Book an Anmeldung appointment as soon as you have an address
- To do: Keep your Meldebescheinigung safe, with copies in your document vault
- To do: Enrol at the university with your insurance proof
- To do: Look up your city's foreigners' authority and its document list
- To do: Book a residence permit appointment early
- To do: Open a German bank account and activate your blocked account, if you have one
Common mistakes
- Waiting weeks to register
- Moving without telling the authorities. You must register changes too.
- Forgetting copies of documents
- Leaving the residence permit appointment until your visa is nearly over
Verify before you act
Procedures differ between cities and change from time to time. Check Make it in Germany, your city's official website and your university's student office.