What is Anmeldung?
Quick definition
The mandatory address registration that every resident in Germany must complete within 14 days of moving to a new address.
How it works
The Anmeldung (address registration) is one of the first things you must do after arriving in Germany. You register at the local Bürgeramt (citizens' office) or Einwohnermeldeamt (residents' registration office). You'll need your passport, a rental contract, and a Wohnungsgeberbestätigung (landlord confirmation form). After registration, you receive a Meldebescheinigung (registration certificate), which you'll need for almost everything — opening a bank account, signing up for health insurance, getting your tax ID, and applying for your residence permit.
Why it matters
Without an Anmeldung, you cannot open a German bank account, receive your tax ID, or apply for a residence permit. It is the foundational administrative step for anyone moving to Germany.
Related terms
Country guides
Learn how this applies to specific nationalities.
