If you want to live in one place in Germany for more than three months, you must register your place of residence. This also applies to holders of the Chancenkarte. With a simple step-by-step guide, we will show you how you can easily register in Germany and what legal obligations are involved.
Registration in Germany: Legal obligations and advantages for Chancenkarte holders
Are you planning to live in one place in Germany for longer than three months with your Chancenkarte? Then you must register your place of residence. In addition to a valid residential address, this also requires a confirmation of registration from the residents’ registration office. You will need the registration confirmation, for example, to open a bank account, take out a mobile phone contract or apply for health insurance.
“Step-by-step guide” to registering in Germany
1. Find residence
On common property portals, Chancenkarte holders can easily search online for a rental flat in Germany. Your future employer or a local advice centre can help you with this.
2. Visit the registration office
Once you have successfully found a flat, you must apply for an appointment with the responsible municipality. This can often be done online, but also by telephone. The residents’ registration office in your town is responsible for official registration. Important: You must appear in person at the residents’ registration office to submit your documents.
3. Have documents ready
Bring important documents to the residents’ registration office:
- Valid passport or identity card that can be used to verify your identity (Proof of the Chancenkarte is in your passport and should be shown at the registration office)
- Landlord’s confirmation of residence (this is often issued by the landlord or owner. You can either download the relevant form online from your municipality’s website and print it out or take it with you to your local authority). The document should contain the name and address of the landlord as well as details of the flat and the date of moving in.
4. Keep confirmation of registration in a safe place
Once you have presented all the necessary documents, the employees will check your details. If everything has been entered and submitted correctly, you will receive an official confirmation of registration from the authorities. You must keep this carefully, as it can be important as proof of residence for future contracts.
What happens when I have received the registration confirmation?
Once you have received your registration confirmation from the Residents’ Registration Office, you will automatically be assigned a tax ID and sent it by post. The tax ID is important for your future employment.
Conclusion
Registration in Germany is a legal requirement for migrants and Chancenkarte holders if they wish to stay in one place for longer than three months. It is therefore advisable to look for accommodation and register with the relevant local authority or residents’ registration office as soon as you receive your Chancenkarte. After the two-week deadline, you may be fined. Have the most important documents for the registration process ready and keep the confirmation of registration in a safe place for further matters, such as applying for a bank account or health insurance.
