Address Change
Changing Your Address in Germany
Moving within Germany requires several important steps to ensure that authorities, service providers, and contracts continue to function correctly.
Registering Your New Address at the Bürgeramt
You must register your new address within two weeks at the local Bürgeramt. Depending on your move, this is either a re-registration (Ummeldung) within the same municipality or a new registration (Anmeldung) in a different municipality.
Bring:
- Valid ID or passport
- Visa or residence permit, if applicable
- Wohnungsgeberbestätigung from your landlord
Informing Your Landlord
If you live in a rented apartment, you must notify your current landlord at least three months in advance in writing. Check your rental contract for any cleaning, renovation, or handover requirements to ensure you receive your deposit back.
Updating Utility Providers
Inform or cancel your contracts for:
- Electricity
- Gas
- Internet
- Telephone
Many providers require three months' notice, although this depends on your contract. Check whether your existing contracts can be transferred to your new address.
Setting Up Mail Forwarding
Deutsche Post offers two helpful services:
- Mail forwarding (Nachsendeauftrag) for up to 24 months.
- Moving notification (Umzugsmitteilung), which automatically informs many important institutions about your new address.
Updating Banks, Health Insurance, and Contracts
You should update your address wherever it is stored, including:
- Banks and financial institutions
- Health insurance providers
- Insurance companies (liability, household, car, disability)
- Internet and mobile phone providers
- Employer and pension insurance
- Subscriptions and memberships
- Streaming services and online accounts
Failing to update your address can lead to missed mail, late fees, or security issues.
Informing the Tax Office
Your responsible tax office may change when you move. Make sure your new address is correctly registered so that important tax-related correspondence continues to reach you.