Anmeldung in Germany: Address Registration Explained (2026)

If you’ve just arrived in Germany, one of the first and most important things you must do is the Anmeldung — registering your address.

Without Anmeldung, you cannot:

• Open a bank account

• Get a tax ID

• Register for health insurance

• Apply for a residence permit

• Sign many contracts

This 2026 guide explains what Anmeldung is, how to do it step by step, and common mistakes to avoid.

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What Is Anmeldung in Germany?

Anmeldung is the official registration of your residential address with the local authorities.

Every person living in Germany — including foreigners — must register their address after moving in.

📌 It is required by law.

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When Do You Need to Do Anmeldung?

You must register:

• Within 14 days of moving into your accommodation

• Even if your stay is temporary (short-term apartment)

⚠️ Delays can result in fines in some cities.

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Where Do You Register Your Address?

You do Anmeldung at:

• The Bürgeramt (Registration Office)

• Sometimes called Einwohnermeldeamt

You must book an appointment online in most cities.

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Documents Needed for Anmeldung (2026)

Bring these documents with you:

• ✅ Passport

• ✅ Visa or residence permit (if available)

• ✅ Completed Anmeldung form

• ✅ Rental contract or accommodation confirmation

• ✅ Wohnungsgeberbestätigung (VERY IMPORTANT)

What Is Wohnungsgeberbestätigung?

It is a confirmation from your landlord stating that you live at the address.

Without it → no Anmeldung.

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Step-by-Step Anmeldung Process

Step 1: Book an Appointment

Go to your city’s official website and book a Bürgeramt appointment.

Step 2: Prepare Your Documents

Print everything and bring originals.

Step 3: Attend the Appointment

The officer will:

• Check your documents

• Register your address

• Ask basic questions

⏱️ Takes about 10–15 minutes.

Step 4: Receive Registration Certificate

You’ll get a document called Meldebescheinigung.

KEEP THIS SAFE.

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What Happens After Anmeldung?

After registering, you will receive:

• 📬 Tax ID (Steuer-ID) by post (within 2–4 weeks)

You can now:

• Open a bank account

• Sign contracts

• Apply for residence permit

• Start working legally (if allowed)

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Anmeldung for Temporary Accommodation

Yes — you can register if:

• The landlord allows it

• The platform provides Wohnungsgeberbestätigung

Platforms that usually allow Anmeldung:

• Wunderflats

• HousingAnywhere

• Spotahome

❌ Airbnb usually does NOT allow it (check first).

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Common Mistakes to Avoid ❌

• Forgetting Wohnungsgeberbestätigung

• Missing the 14-day deadline

• Using an address without permission

• Not updating your address when you move

📌 You must do Ummeldung if you change address.

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Is Anmeldung Free?

✅ Yes, Anmeldung is completely free.

If someone asks you to pay → it’s a scam.

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Final Tips for 2026

✔️ Book appointments early
✔️ Print all documents
✔️ Be polite and calm
✔️ Save digital copies

Germany loves paperwork — being organized helps a lot.

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Conclusion

Anmeldung is one of the most important steps after arriving in Germany. Once completed, your life in Germany officially begins.

➡️ Next, we’ll explain how to get a tax ID and start working in Germany.