Abmeldung in Germany: Step-by-Step Guide to De-Registering Your Address
When we left Germany we had to complete the de-registration process (Abmeldung). This is compulsory when leaving Germany; it simply lets your local authority know that you are leaving the country. You can complete your de-registration up to a week before you leave but it’s also possible to de-register in Germany after leaving the country by post. This must be done up to 14 days after leaving the country. The process is completely free!
How to de-register in person: A step by step guide
You need to visit your local citizen’s office (Bürgeramt) or residents’ registration office (Einwohnermeldeamt) to deregister in person. Below are the steps on how to do this.
Step 1: Gather the required documents
You will need the following documents:
Passport and residence permit of all the people who are de-registering
Completed de-registration form (abmeldeformular). You can download it from the website of the registration office in your city
Some cities may ask for additional documentation such as proof of departure or your rental contract so it’s always best to check the specific requirements for your local office.
Step 2: Book and appointment
Many cities now require you to book an appointment in advance for de-registration, especially in larger cities like Berlin or Munich. You can book this online.
Step 3: Submit your documents
On the day of your appointment you will submit your documents and de-registration form. The staff will check your information and process the de-registration.
Step 4: Receive Your De-registration Certificate (Abmeldebestätigung)
After completing the de-registration process, you will receive a de-registration certificate (Abmeldebestätigung). This document serves as proof that you have officially de-registered your address. Keep this certificate for your records as you may need it for things like canceling contracts, returning rented apartments, or even filing taxes.
How to de-register by post: a step by step guide
We de-registered by post as we de-registered after we had left the country. The process is very straightforward. The steps are below.
Step 1: Complete the de-registration form (abmeldeformular)
You can download it from the website of the registration office in your city. You need to fill out the details of everyone who is de-registering.
Step 2: Gather the required documents
A copy of your passport and residence permit
Proof of departure: include a document like a plane ticket or visa to show that you’re leaving the county
Step 3: Send the documents by post
Mail the completed de-registration form and required documents to your local citizen’s office. It is advised to use a secure mailing method to ensure your documents are received safely and you can track them.
Step 4: They will send you your de-registration certificate (Abmeldebestätigung)
This will be sent to the address you filled out in the form, even if it’s abroad. This document serves as proof that you have officially de-registered your address. Keep this certificate for your records as you may need it for things like canceling contracts, returning rented apartments, or even filing taxes.
What happens if I don’t de-register?
If you don’t de-register in Germany after you leave the country, you may face several issues:
Taxes - you may still be considered a tax resident in Germany so you may have to pay taxes in Germany even if you are no longer living there
Social security, heath insurance and broadcasting fees - you may still be liable to pay for these even if you’re not using the services anymore.
Potential fines - in some cases, if you don’t de-register you may have to pay an administrative fine up to €1000. This isn’t very common but it’s not impossible.
Problems with Future Applications - not de-registering could cause complications with visa or residency applications in the future, as authorities may see you as still being registered in Germany.
To avoid these issues, it's important to de-register at before or shortly after leaving the country. It’s a relatively straightforward process and doesn’t cost a thing.
