Official procedures & registration
After arriving in Germany, you need to complete a few important official procedures: registration with the Residents' Registration Office (Einwohnermeldeamt), a residence permit from the Immigration Office (Ausländerbehörde), and more. That sounds complicated, but don't worry – StudiStep explains every step to you and accompanies you in person if needed.
Registration with the Residents' Registration Office (Einwohnermeldeamt)
In Germany, everyone with a fixed residence must register with the Residents' Registration Office (also called Bürgeramt or Bürgerbüro). As an international student, you must register within 14 days of moving into your accommodation. This is mandatory! Without the registration certificate (Meldebescheinigung), you cannot open a bank account or apply for a residence permit.
For registration you need: your passport, the completed registration form, and the landlord confirmation (Wohnungsgeberbestätigung) — a signature from your landlord confirming that you have moved in. Registration itself is free and usually takes only a few minutes – but you often need to make an appointment beforehand.
Important deadlines
- Residents' Registration Office (Einwohnermeldeamt)Within 14 days
- Immigration Office (Ausländerbehörde)Within 90 days
- Extension3 months before expiry
- Residence permit feeapprox. 100–110 euros
- Registration certificate (Meldebescheinigung)Free of charge
Required documents
- Passport (valid)
- Landlord confirmation (Wohnungsgeberbestätigung)
- Proof of health insurance
- Letter of admission (University)
- Biometric passport photo
Overview of the most important official procedures
What you need to do after arrival
1. Residents' Registration Office
Deadline: 14 days – Registration of your place of residence. Mandatory for everyone! You receive the registration certificate (Meldebescheinigung) – important for a bank account, residence permit and more. Free of charge.
2. Immigration Office
Deadline: 90 days – Application for a residence permit for non-EU students. Fee: approx. 100 euros. The electronic residence permit (eAT) is sent by post.
3. University / Enrolment
Note the semester start date – Enrollment with all required documents. You receive your student ID and access to university systems.
4. Opening a bank account
After the registration certificate – For rent, income from a part-time job and everyday payments. Registration certificate (Meldebescheinigung) and passport required.
5. Activating health insurance
Before enrolment – Confirmation of health insurance for the university. With statutory health insurance: electronic notification (M10) to the university.
6. Registering for the broadcasting fee (Rundfunkbeitrag)
After moving in – In Germany, every household pays a broadcasting fee (GEZ) of 18.36 euros/month. Exemption is possible when receiving BAföG.
Your path through the authorities with StudiStep
We accompany you every step of the way
1. Preparing documents
Checklist with all the documents
2. Booking appointments
We help you book appointments
3. Residents' Registration Office
Registering your residence
4. Immigration Office
Applying for a residence permit
5. All done!
You are officially registered
Ready for your studies in Germany?
Submit your non-binding request — we will accompany you all the way to a study place.