Once you have found accommodation, you have to inform the Residents’ Registration Office (Einwohnermeldeamt) of your place of residence. In larger cities, it is usually located in the district office or Bürgerbüro responsible for the city quarter in which you live. Ask the International Office for the address.

You will need the following documents to register at the Residents’ Registration Office:

• Your passport and visa, if you have one
• Your tenancy agreement or statement from your landlord that you have moved in

You may also be asked to provide confirmation of enrolment or a copy of your passport. Before you go, we recommend enquiring at your International Office about exactly which documents you should bring along.

After you have filled out a registration form, you will receive confirmation of registration. Make sure to take good care of this document as you may need it later to verify your place of residence.

Please note: Anyone who lives in Germany and moves to a new location is required to inform the Residents’ Registration Office of his new place of residence within one week after moving in.

Tip: Do you already know about the Servicepaket for international students from your German universities' Studentenwerk? Thanks to the internet, you can book the service package in advance while you are still at home. It covers not only health insurance, but also meals and accommodation in a Studentenwohnheim including a mentor who will help you with the formalities and make you feel comfortable right from the start.

More information on housing and how to look for a flat you can find on our website and the homepage of the DAAD.