In Germany, all residents are required to register their place of residence, regardless of nationality. For EU citizens relocating for work, this registration is essential, as it’s needed for various formalities such as opening a bank account or setting up mobile and internet contracts.
You must register within 14 days of moving into your new apartment or signing the lease. This can be done at the local registration office (Einwohnermeldeamt or Bürgeramt) in your city. Check the website of your city’s registration office to make an appointment or get more information.
To register your apartment, bring the following:
Typically, registration is free. In some cities, a small fee of up to 10 euros may apply.
EU citizens can now register their residence in Berlin online – a simple process using the eID function. With a BundID account and either an eID card or a national ID card with activated online ID function, all necessary data can be submitted digitally. The process requires an NFC-enabled smartphone or a card reader and the AusweisApp to update the address on the ID card. This allows EU citizens to save time and avoid in-person appointments by completing their residence registration directly online.
Once registered, you’ll be required to pay the German broadcasting fee (Rundfunkbeitrag), a monthly charge for all households. If you live in a shared apartment where someone else is already paying this fee, no additional payment is necessary. Every household in Germany must pay a broadcasting fee of 18.36 euros per month for public broadcasting. Starting in 2025, this fee could increase to 18.94 euros.
With this registration, you’ve completed an essential step for living and working in Germany, making it easier to handle the rest of your relocation smoothly.
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