If you’re living in Germany long enough, Ummeldung will eventually become part of your life.
Moving apartments, changing cities, or even relocating within the same town all come with one unavoidable task: updating your address officially.
If Anmeldung is your first registration, Ummeldung is the update — and while it’s slightly easier, it’s still something you need to do correctly and on time.
Let’s break it down, step by step.
What Is Ummeldung?
Ummeldung means re-registration.
You must do an Ummeldung when:
- You move to a new address within Germany
- You change apartments in the same city
- You move to a different city
In simple terms:
👉 If your address changes, you must inform the authorities.
Ummeldung vs Anmeldung (Quick Comparison)
| Situation | What You Need |
|---|---|
| First address in Germany | Anmeldung |
| Moving within Germany | Ummeldung |
| Leaving Germany permanently | Abmeldung |
If you already did Anmeldung once, you’ll usually only do Ummeldung from then on.
When Do You Have to Do Ummeldung?
The legal deadline is usually:
👉 Within 14 days after moving
Some cities are more relaxed, others are strict. Fines are possible if you delay — so don’t wait too long.
Where Do You Do Ummeldung?
You must go to:
- Bürgeramt
- Einwohnermeldeamt
- Bürgerbüro
(The name depends on the city, but the function is the same.)
In most places:
- You must book an appointment
- Walk-ins are rare
Documents You Need for Ummeldung
Compared to Anmeldung, this part is easier.
Bring:
- ✅ Passport or ID
- ✅ Wohnungsgeberbestätigung (from your new landlord)
- ✅ Registration form (sometimes optional)
- ✅ Old registration address (just knowing it is enough)
You usually do not need:
- Visa documents
- Work contracts
- Marriage certificates
What Is the Wohnungsgeberbestätigung?
Just like with Anmeldung, your landlord must confirm that you moved in.
This document includes:
- Your name
- New address
- Move-in date
- Landlord’s signature
⚠️ Without this document, Ummeldung is not possible.
How the Ummeldung Appointment Works
The appointment is usually short and straightforward.
Typical steps:
- Clerk checks your documents
- Address is updated in the system
- You receive a new registration certificate
- Address sticker may be updated on your ID (if applicable)
⏱️ Time needed: 5–10 minutes
What Happens After Ummeldung?
This is where many people forget important steps.
After your Ummeldung, you should update your address with:
- Bank
- Health insurance
- Employer
- Kindergarten / school
- Internet & phone provider
- Tax office (usually automatic, but double-check)
💡 Ummeldung does not automatically update everything.
Do You Need to Do Ummeldung for Your Kids?
Yes.
Children must also be registered at the new address.
If they are minors:
- One parent can usually handle it
- Birth certificates are rarely required, but bring them just in case
Ummeldung When Moving in With a Partner
If you move in with:
- A partner
- Spouse
- Family member
You still need:
- Wohnungsgeberbestätigung (from owner or main tenant)
If your partner is the main tenant, they can issue the confirmation.
What If You Forget or Are Late?
Possible consequences:
- Warning
- Fine (varies by city)
- Problems later with:
- Residence permits
- Tax letters
- Official correspondence
💡 If you’re late, go anyway. Doing it late is always better than not doing it at all.
Can You Do Ummeldung Online?
In some cities, yes — but it’s still limited.
Most expats still need to:
- Go in person
- Or send documents by post
Always check your city’s official website.
Common Ummeldung Mistakes
❌ Assuming it’s automatic
❌ Forgetting to update banks and insurance
❌ Missing the deadline
❌ Not getting the Wohnungsgeberbestätigung
❌ Thinking it’s optional
Final Thoughts
Ummeldung may not be exciting, but it’s one of those small administrative tasks that keeps your life in Germany running smoothly.
Once you understand the system, it’s simple — and much less stressful than the first Anmeldung.
If you’re planning a move, do this early and move on with your life.
Related Articles
- 👉 Anmeldung Explained: How to Register Your Address in Germany
- 👉 Moving to Germany: Step-by-Step Guide
- 👉 How to Find an Apartment in Germany (coming soon)
- 👉 Leaving Germany: Abmeldung Explained (coming soon)
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