Register your stay

Welcome to Germany!

Congratulations on getting your visa to work or live in Germany! Here's what you need to do next to get settled.

Register Your Stay

Why Register? If you're staying in Germany for more than 6 months, you need to register your address to comply with the law and complete daily activities like opening a bank account.

When to Register? You have 14 days after arriving in Germany to register. Make sure you've found an apartment and have a residence certificate from your landlord.

Tip: Book an appointment at the local registration office (Rathaus or Bürgerbüro) before you arrive. You can usually do this online.

The Appointment

What to Expect:
Once you book, you'll get an email with the appointment details: address, reservation ID, date, and time. Be there at least 15 minutes early. If you can't make it, cancel and reschedule your appointment.

On the Day:

• Scan the QR code in your invitation to enter the building. Staff at the door can help.
• Wait for your number to appear on the screen. It will tell you which counter to go to.

Important: Staff will speak German, so it's helpful to know basic German. If you don't, bring a German-speaking friend.

Documents to Bring

Bring originals of:

• Passport
• Visa (if not attached to your passport)
• Marriage certificate (if married)
• Birth certificate (if you have children)
• Residence certificate (Wohnraumbestätigung) from your landlord

After Registering

If everything is in order, you'll get a stamped confirmation document. Later, you'll receive other important documents like your Tax ID and Radio Tax declaration.

Welcome to your new life in Germany!